Pennsylvania Christmas Train Rides In Middletown!

Published: December 8, 2025

There’s a special kind of holiday magic that only a small-town railroad can deliver: the scent of pine and hot cocoa, the soft hum of a vintage train, and the wide-eyed wonder of kids who can’t wait to spot Santa. In central Pennsylvania, the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad - also known as the "Milk & Honey Line" captures that spirit every year with its seasonal Christmas trains, notably Santa’s Surprise Train and the Polar Bear Express. If you’re planning a festive outing that mixes nostalgia, family-friendly fun, and a touch of local history, this heritage railroad is a memorable choice.

"Middletown & Hummelstown" 2-6-0 #91 pulls the "Civil War Steam Special" out of Middletown on September 30, 2007. The Mogul actually started out as Canadian National #91 in 1910, built by the Canadian Locomotive Company. Rob Kitchen photo.

About The "Milk & Honey Line"

The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad is a heritage line based in Middletown, Pennsylvania, a short drive from Hershey and Harrisburg. The route follows a former Reading Company branch that traces the scenic Swatara Creek, threading through woodlands and farmland toward Hummelstown.

For much of the year, the railroad runs excursion trains that highlight the region’s history, including its ties to early industry, the canal era, and nearby attractions like Indian Echo Caverns. In late fall and winter, the schedule shifts to holiday-themed rides that have become a tradition for many local families.

While equipment can vary, you can expect vintage diesel locomotives and classic passenger coaches decorated for the season. The feel is intimate and unhurried—more “small-town celebration” than big production—making it ideal if you prefer a relaxed, authentic holiday experience over crowds and spectacle.

Santa’s Surprise Train

Santa’s Surprise Train is the railroad’s centerpiece Christmas experience. The concept is simple, and that’s part of its charm: climb aboard a decorated coach, settle into a warm seat, and enjoy a leisurely ride while Santa strolls through the train to greet children. The atmosphere is cheerful and cozy, with carols in the background and twinkling lights that turn the coaches into festive rolling parlors.

What to expect

A welcoming, family-focused ride that typically lasts under an hour, long enough to feel like a real journey but short enough for toddlers and grandparents alike.

Santa visits each family, giving kids a chance to say hello and, typically, to receive a small treat or token. Bring your camera; this is a great photo op.

Friendly crew members and volunteers who share tidbits about the railroad and the landscape along the Swatara Creek. On daytime departures, keep an eye out for wildlife and historic features along the line.

A relaxed pace. This isn’t a scripted theatrical show; it’s a real train ride with personal touches and the kind of warmth that local heritage railroads are known for.

Who it’s perfect for

Santa’s Surprise Train is tailor-made for young families and multigenerational outings. The ride length and onboard Santa visit are designed to delight children without overstimulation. If your holiday tradition includes a photo with Santa, this setting feels more personal than a mall and far more memorable.

The Polar Bear Express

Where Santa’s Surprise Train leans into the classic visit-with-Santa experience, the Polar Bear Express embraces the season itself. It’s a wintertime excursion that focuses on the quiet beauty of the landscape, the nostalgia of vintage rail travel, and the novelty of bundling up for a cold-weather ride. The name hints at the experience: think cozy sweaters, scarves, and the hush of winter as the train glides along the creek.

What to expect

A scenic cold-weather ride without the Santa meet-and-greet. The emphasis is on the journey and the season, not character interactions.

A different vibe from pre-Christmas rides—less bustle, more reflection. This can be a wonderful way to keep the holiday spirit going during the final weeks of December or into the new year, depending on the schedule.

Occasional opportunities to ride in cars with big windows that frame the winter scenery. Some seasons may feature an open-air car for hardy passengers when conditions allow; if you choose that, bring serious layers.

Who it’s perfect for

The Polar Bear Express appeals to couples, friend groups, and families with older kids who enjoy scenic rides and the calm of post-holiday outings. If you love the idea of a peaceful, wintry train trip—without the busyness of a Santa visit—this is your pick.

Why choose a heritage railroad for your holiday outing

Authenticity: You’re riding real railroad history, not just a themed attraction. That authenticity creates memories that stick.

Community: Many volunteers and staff have deep ties to the area. The personal touch you’ll encounter is hard to replicate at larger venues.

Preservation: Your ticket helps keep historic equipment maintained and the line in operation for future generations.

Location: The Middletown & Hummelstown is close to Hershey and Harrisburg, making it easy to pair your ride with other seasonal activities in the region.

Final Thoughts

The Middletown & Hummelstown’s Santa’s Surprise Train and Polar Bear Express offer two distinct flavors of holiday cheer. One centers on the joy of meeting Santa in a setting that feels intimate and genuine; the other celebrates winter itself, inviting you to slow down and savor the season from a warm seat on a vintage coach.

Both tap into the timeless appeal of rail travel and the spirit of a community that takes pride in sharing its history. If your holiday wish list includes quality time, nostalgia, and a dash of adventure, these trains deliver—beautifully.

For current schedules, pricing, and availability, check the railroad’s official website. Holiday offerings can change, and the most popular departures go quickly. With a little planning and a lot of seasonal spirit, you’ll step off the train with a camera full of memories and a new tradition to look forward to each year.

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