Mother's Day Train Rides In PA: A Complete Guide

Published: March 16, 2025

Mother's Day is a cherished occasion to honor and celebrate the incredible women who have shaped our lives. In Pennsylvania, families can commemorate this special day with a unique and unforgettable experience: themed train rides.

These rides offer a delightful blend of scenic beauty, nostalgia, and entertainment, making them a perfect outing for families looking to create lasting memories with their mothers. This guide will detail the best Mother's Day train rides across Pennsylvania, offering insights into what makes each one special.

1. The Strasburg Rail Road

Overview

Located in the heart of Lancaster County, the Strasburg Rail Road is renowned for its meticulously maintained steam trains and idyllic countryside views. Established in 1832, it is America's oldest continuously operating railroad and a beloved attraction in Pennsylvania.

Mother's Day Event

The Strasburg Rail Road offers a Mother's Day special that combines a charming ride through the picturesque Amish farmlands with various onboard activities. The vintage steam train, with its beautifully restored coaches, provides a cozy atmosphere as it chugs through the rolling hills and farmlands.

Onboard Experience

- Gourmet Brunch or Dinner: The train offers special dining packages like a gourmet brunch and/or dinner, served in the elegant dining car. Passengers enjoy a delectable meal complete with fresh local produce and decadent desserts while soaking in the stunning views.

- Scenic Views: The ride offers sweeping vistas of the Lancaster countryside, with endless fields, farmhouses, and occasional sightings of Amish families going about their daily routines.

Booking Information

Advanced booking is recommended, as seats for this special event are limited and sell out quickly. Tickets can be purchased through the Strasburg Rail Road's website or by visiting their ticket office.

2. New Hope Railroad

Overview

Nestled in the charming town of New Hope, this historic railroad offers a beautiful juxtaposition of vintage flair and scenic beauty. The New Hope Railroad provides a perfect backdrop for a Mother's Day celebration.

Mother's Day Event

The railroad presents a special Mother's Day event known as the Mother’s Day Mimosa Brunch that features an unforgettable journey through the scenic Bucks County countryside.

Onboard Experience

This year, make Mother's Day truly unforgettable by joining us for our enchanting Mimosa Brunch with a twist. Picture this: as you wander through the charming woodlands of Bucks County, indulge in a delightful "breakfast charcuterie" spread filled with fruits, breads, and an array of delicious treats to tantalize your brunch-time cravings. For those 21 and over, a choice of a refreshing Mimosa or a classic Bloody Mary awaits, while a variety of non-alcoholic beverages are also on hand. Plus, if you're in the mood for a little extra cheer, our bar service has you covered.

Relax in style on our vintage parlor car, where our attentive staff will ensure every moment is perfect. Savor your breakfast aboard the train at the picturesque 1891 New Hope station, just before embarking on a captivating journey through the vibrant spring scenery of Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Capture these magical memories with the help of our onboard photographer, ready to snap the perfect family moment. Choose from our photo packages available online or right there on the train for an additional fee.

Crafted with care, this special experience is designed to create a cherished memory that Mom will hold dear for years to come. Don't just celebrate Mother's Day; make it extraordinary!

Booking Information

Tickets for the Mother's Day train can be purchased online via the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad’s website or at the station. Due to its popularity, early reservations are strongly encouraged.

3. Colebrookdale Railroad

Overview

The Colebrookdale Railroad offers a delightful experience, known as the “Secret Valley Line,” that captures the essence of vintage rail travel. Located in Berks County, it is an enchanting journey with an ambiance of bygone eras.

Mother's Day Event

Embrace a railway adventure that combines historical elegance with picturesque scenery. The Colebrookdale Railroad's Mother's Day journey is a perfect mix of relaxation and nostalgia.

Onboard Experience

- Victorian Edifice and Coaches: The beautifully restored Victorian coaches provide a luxurious backdrop for the ride.

- Dinner, Brunch, and Tea: Celebrate Mother’s Day throughout May in various ways; the railroad offers either dinner, brunch, or tea specials hosted in either the dining car, lounge car, beaver car, parlor car, or deluxe coach.

Booking Information

Details about schedules and tickets are available on the Colebrookdale Railroad's website, where guests can also book their reservations. Consider purchasing tickets well in advance, particularly for special events such as Mother’s Day.

4. Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad

Overview

Known as "The Milk & Honey Line," the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad offers an experience steeped in local history. Recognized for its charming vintage trains, it takes passengers on a scenic route along the Swatara Creek.

Mother's Day Event

This railroad specializes in providing themed train rides that are fun for the whole family, and the Mother’s Day rides are particularly engaging. On mom's special day the railroad hosts a Mothers Day Dinner Train with live musical entertainment.

Booking Information

Tickets can be booked through the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad’s website, and phone reservations are also available. Be sure to check the schedule as special Mother’s Day events may vary from year to year.

5. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

Overview

Bringing a unique historical twist, the Oil Creek & Titusville transports riders back to the 1860s’ Oil Boom era, offering an engaging journey through Pennsylvania's oil heritage with trains passing through the Oil Creek Valley.

Mother's Day Event

This railroad hosts a 3-hour long excursion for moms on Mother's Day where their trips are discounted.

Booking Information

Reservations for the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad can be made through their website. Make sure to book early, especially for themed events like the Mother’s Day ride.

6. Wanamaker Kempton and Southern Railroad

The Wanamaker Kempton and Southern (WK&S), often affectionately referred to as "The Hawk Mountain Line," is a heritage railroad situated in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Established in 1963, the WK&S Railroad has become a cherished local attraction, offering scenic excursions that transport passengers back in time to experience the golden era of railroading.

The railroad runs along a preserved section of track that was once part of the expansive Reading Company system, specifically the former Schuylkill and Lehigh Branch. The picturesque journey, approximately 3.5 miles each way, winds through the peaceful Pennsylvania countryside, showcasing stunning views of the surrounding farmland and the nearby Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.

A variety of historic locomotives and railcars make up the WK&S's rolling stock, with many carefully restored to reflect their original glory. The railroad primarily operates vintage diesel locomotives, though it occasionally features steam-powered trips, delighting rail enthusiasts and families alike.

In addition to regular weekend rides during the spring, summer, and fall months, the WK&S hosts special event trains, including holiday-themed rides such as the popular "Santa Claus Special" during the festive season.

The railroad is run and maintained by dedicated volunteers who strive to preserve the cultural and historical significance of rail travel while providing educational and enjoyable experiences for visitors.

They host a special Mother's Day train ride for moms each year that includes a "sweet treat" for mom.

7. West Chester Railroad

The West Chester Railroad is a heritage railway that operates in southeastern Pennsylvania, connecting the historic towns of West Chester and Glen Mills. Founded in 1858, the line originally served as a vital transportation link for goods and passengers. This scenic railroad offers a journey along the bucolic Chester Creek, showcasing the natural beauty of rolling landscapes and wooded areas.

Today, the railroad primarily functions as a tourist attraction, offering a range of themed excursions that cater to diverse audiences, including family-friendly rides, seasonal events, and special charters. Among the most popular experiences are the fall foliage tours, holiday-themed rides, and the Santa Express, which elicit joy from passengers of all ages.

Operated by volunteers, the enduring charm of the railroad lies in its historical significance and rustic appeal, providing an immersive glimpse into the region's past. The vintage trains and restored stations offer a unique historical context, adding educational value to the pleasurable ride. As part of its mission, the railroad contributes to the preservation of local railroading history and fosters community involvement through various volunteer opportunities.

Among their special events is the Mother's Day Express where moms ride at a reduced fair for a 90-minute train ride.

Tips for the Best Experience

- Dress Comfortably: While these train rides are not particularly formal, consider dressing comfortably and season-appropriately for a day of relaxation and enjoyment.

- Plan Ahead: Due to the popularity of these events, train rides can sell out quickly. Reserve your tickets well in advance.

- Check the Weather: Pennsylvania in May can vary weather-wise, so it's advisable to check the forecast and prepare accordingly, especially for rides with open-air options.

Mother's Day themed train rides offer a unique opportunity to celebrate this special occasion with a journey into the past, all while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the Keystone State.

From historical narrations and gourmet meals to interactive family activities and luxurious surroundings, these train rides provide an experience that is both heartwarming and entertaining. With proper preparation and an adventurous spirit, celebrating Mother's Day by train can become an unforgettable family tradition, honoring the mothers who mean so much to us.