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Pennsylvania Christmas Train Rides In Strasburg!

Published: November 23, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Nestled deep in the rolling farmland of Lancaster County, the Strasburg Rail Road is one of America’s most storied heritage railways. It is known for its impeccably maintained fleet of steam locomotives, vintage wooden coaches, and a remarkable commitment to historic authenticity.

Yet what makes Strasburg truly stand out is not only its legacy as the oldest continuously operating railroad in the United States but also the immersive, family-focused experiences it creates—none more beloved than its annual Christmas train rides.

Each holiday season, the railroad transforms into a nostalgic wonderland, offering several themed excursions: the Santa’s Paradise Express, the Santa Claus Limited, and the enchanting Night Before Christmas Train.

Strasburg Rail Road’s unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and attention to detail has made it a benchmark in heritage railroading. Whether hosting families for a holiday memory or transporting railfans to a bygone era of steam, the railroad has mastered the ability to honor its past while engaging modern audiences.

Strasburg Rail Road 2-10-0 #90 arrives back at the station in Strasburg with the "Long John Limited" on Opening Day in February, 2016. Jon Wright photo.

A Historic Railroad Since 1832

The Strasburg Rail Road traces its origins to 1832, when it was chartered to serve the agricultural communities of southeastern Pennsylvania. Constructed during a period when most American railroads were still experimental, Strasburg was designed initially as a short freight and passenger line linking the town of Strasburg with the Philadelphia & Columbia Railroad at Leaman Place. Its early existence mirrored that of other small regional railways, carrying local produce, manufactured goods, and travelers across a modest but vital stretch of track.

By the mid-20th century, however, the railroad faced decline. Like many small carriers, its traffic dwindled as highways, automobiles, and truck transport dominated daily commerce. In 1957, the line was nearly abandoned. Yet a group of local enthusiasts saw something worth saving. They formed the Strasburg Rail Road Company, purchased the line, and embarked on what would become one of the nation's most successful heritage rail operations.

Through careful stewardship, dedication to authenticity, and a thriving tourism market, Strasburg Rail Road not only survived but flourished. Its 4.5-mile branch line, running from Strasburg to Leaman Place, has become synonymous with family-friendly steam excursions and world-class equipment preservation.

Steam Operations and Preservation Excellence

Strasburg Rail Road is widely considered one of the most meticulous and professionally run heritage railroads in the United States. Unlike many operations that rely heavily on volunteers, Strasburg maintains a full-time professional mechanical staff, skilled in steam locomotive and vintage coach restoration. Their shop has earned nationwide respect, performing contract work for numerous museums and tourist railways, including the National Park Service, the Virginia Museum of Transportation, and the Age of Steam Roundhouse.

The railroad’s own operational roster includes several notable locomotives:

• Norfolk & Western 4-8-0 #475, a rare, early 20th-century "Mastodon" type, is a crowd favorite.
• Canadian National 2-6-0 #89, a Mogul-type engine, is often used for regular excursions.
• Strasburg 0-6-0 #31, a shop switcher built by the railroad’s own mechanical department.
• Brooklyn Eastern District Terminal 0-6-0 #15, an ongoing restoration that has garnered significant railfan attention.
• Great Western Railway Of Colorado 2-10-0 #90, the only operational Decapod in the U.S. 

Strasburg Rail Road stands out for its use of historic wooden passenger coaches, carefully restored to match the Victorian and turn-of-the-century aesthetic. These cars, many more than a century old, play a key role in maintaining the railroad’s authentic charm and storytelling capacity—particularly during the holiday season.

Christmas at Strasburg: A Beloved Tradition

Few heritage railroads celebrate Christmas with the same artistry and attention to atmosphere as the Strasburg Rail Road. Every year, from late November through December, the line becomes a festive corridor illuminated with lights, seasonal decorations, and themed experiences. The railroad offers three signature Christmas rides, each designed to appeal to different families, traditions, and holiday preferences.

Santa’s Paradise Express

Perhaps the most iconic of Strasburg’s Christmas offerings, the Santa’s Paradise Express is a family-favorite excursion steeped in old-fashioned warmth. Passengers board beautifully decorated coaches for a ride through the Lancaster countryside, pulled by an authentic steam locomotive. As the train gently rolls past Amish farms and snow-covered fields, children and adults alike experience the nostalgic charm of Christmas railroading.

A central highlight of Santa’s Paradise Express is the onboard visit from Santa Claus himself. Santa walks through each car, greeting families, posing for photos, and giving small gifts to children. Accompanied by holiday music and friendly car hosts, the atmosphere is both lively and intimate. Complementing the experience are strolling musicians, storytellers, or interactive surprises depending on the season.

This ride is particularly well suited for young families, as it delivers the classic Christmas-train experience without extensive theatrics or narration. It’s simply a joyous ride with Santa in a historic setting—exactly the kind of timeless holiday memory Strasburg is famous for creating.

Santa Claus Limited

The Santa Claus Limited is a slightly shorter, more budget-friendly version of the Santa’s Paradise Express, but no less charming. It includes many of the same experiences—beautifully restored passenger cars, steam-powered travel, and an eagerly awaited visit from Santa—but typically runs on a more simplified schedule.

Designed as an efficient alternative for families seeking a festive outing without committing to a longer excursion, the train offers accessibility and convenience. It is particularly popular with local families returning each year for a familiar tradition. The ride still captures all the magic of Strasburg’s historic railroad environment while making the experience more flexible for children with earlier bedtimes or families managing busy holiday schedules.

The Night Before Christmas Train

For many, the Night Before Christmas Train is the most atmospheric and immersive of Strasburg’s holiday excursions. Rather than focusing on Santa’s presence onboard, this ride transforms the coaches into a cozy environment inspired by Clement Clarke Moore’s famous poem.

Passengers settle into dimly lit, warmly decorated coaches, where professional readers recite 'Twas the Night Before Christmas as the train begins its journey. Soft music, storytelling, and a quiet, reflective ambiance define this experience. The ride is perfect for families seeking a calmer, more narrative-driven event rather than a high-energy holiday celebration.

Hot cocoa, cookies, and optional seasonal extras complete the experience, making the Night Before Christmas Train ideal for those who appreciate a quieter, more traditional holiday mood. For many guests, this is the most emotionally resonant of Strasburg’s Christmas offerings.

The Setting: Strasburg’s Depot and Holiday Environment

In addition to the main train rides, the Strasburg depot area becomes a charming Christmas village during the season. Lights, decorations, music, and seasonal snacks create an immersive holiday environment before and after the trip. Families often arrive early or stay late to enjoy hot chocolate, browse local shops, or visit nearby attractions such as the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania directly across the street.

For the youngest visitors, the railroad’s miniature Cagney steam train, when operating, adds to the festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, photographers find countless opportunities around the depot and countryside to capture steam plumes rising against cold winter skies—a timeless holiday image.

A Benchmark in Heritage Tourism

Strasburg excels because it is more than a historic attraction; it is an experience carefully crafted to celebrate both railroad heritage and seasonal tradition. Its Christmas trains succeed not only because they delight young passengers but because they are grounded in the authenticity of genuine steam travel. The railroad's professionalism, mechanical expertise, and dedication to preserving its equipment give the holiday rides a richness that cannot be replicated by more theatrical or improvised attractions.

At a time when heritage operations face rising costs, staffing challenges, and pressure to remain relevant, Strasburg remains a model of sustainable, high-quality tourist railroading. Its Christmas trains illustrate how historic preservation and family entertainment can coexist seamlessly.

Conclusion

The Strasburg is more than a historic attraction; it is a living testament to nearly two centuries of American railroad history. Its steam locomotives, vintage coaches, and picturesque line provide the perfect setting for holiday enchantment. Whatever Christmas train you may choose, each experience reflects Strasburg’s commitment to quality, authenticity, and tradition.

As steam whistles echo through the winter air and warm lights glow across the depot, families create memories that will last far beyond the holiday season. For railfans, the railroad remains a pilgrimage site; for families, it is a cherished Christmas tradition. And for all visitors, it stands as one of the finest examples of what a heritage railroad can be.  To learn more about its holiday rides please click here to visit the railroad's website.