All Aboard! The Strasburg Rail Road is delighting Christmas and train lovers alike with their wonderful Night Before Christmas Train experience! We had the pleasure of taking in all the experience has to offer last week and it was everything my family could have hoped for and more. It combines the excitement of an authentic steam train ride with the spirit of Christmas to create a truly magical experience. We were treated to a ride on the rails to Paradise, milk and cookies, a reading of The Night Before Christmas, Christmas caroling with fellow passengers, and of course, a Santa sighting!
Upon arrival you're automatically swept up in the nostalgia of all things steam train travel. The Strasburg Rail Road is America's oldest operating railroad- since 1832! Here, everything is authentic- from the engine, to the passenger cars, to the crew everything is original (or meticulously restored) and in in true working order. Not to worry, everyone will stay toasty warm because each car is heated by it's own pellet stove, just as it was in the 19th century! I have to admit, when booking our visit, I was most excited about the on board activities for the kids; I was pleasantly surprised by the old world charm and historical significance of the rail road. As we settled into our seats, my inner child (inner nerd) was captivated by the detailing of the woodwork and ornate decor inside the car- the care taken to maintain these cars is nothing short of impressive.
After settling in, our attendant began our trip by passing out fresh snickerdoodle cookies, Turkey Hill milk cartons, and coloring books to the kids. Then, dressed in a Victorian style night shirt and cap he launched into a reading of The Night Before Christmas. Audience participation was encouraged which helped get everyone into the spirit, which was needed because after the story we all broke into Christmas carols! Kids (and adults) are encouraged to wear their PJs to really immerse themselves in the experience and it really is the perfect attire for snuggling up for a story and songs! Before our journey ended Santa came through the car to wish "Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight"- the perfect ending to our journey.
The Night Before Christmas Train is fun for the whole family; ideal to include grandparents, especially history buffs! It's truly a unique holiday experience you can easily turn into a yearly tradition. To make this experience even more magical, consider attending the Christmas Feast which adds a traditional Christmas dinner to the Night Before Christmas ride. If you're unsure about an evening activity the Strasburg Railroad has a few other options. Santa's Paradise Express train departs daily offering a ride along the tracks featuring a sit down visit from Santa with photo opportunities. Santa's Christmas Trolley is another fabulous option; your family will take a trolley to meet Santa and have a professional photo taken on his lap (5x7 included with ticket)! Finally, there is the Christmas Tree Train which takes passengers to a tree farm, your family enjoys an hour to choose a tree, and it's loaded on the train to bring back to the station talk about the ultimate tree picking experience for next year!
Here are a few tips for your visit:
1). Arrive early. You'll want to spend a little time in the gift shop and taking in the holiday lights at the station before you board.
2). You need to go to the ticket booth. Even if you purchase tickets in advance, you'll need to pick up "real" tickets. Yes, the attendant will collect them to submit to the conductor!
3). The Night Before Christmas Train is an on board experience with the story and singing. Since the train runs at night there is not a ton to look at out the windows. If your train enthusiast is going to be disappointed by that, consider Santa's Paradise Express train or Santa's Christmas Trolley instead.
4). Snickerdoodle cookies (cinnamon sugar) and 2% milk are served. If your child has a food allergy (gluten and/or dairy) you may want to consider bringing your own so they don't miss out on the full experience.
5). This is a festive, fun old-fashion Christmas experience. Santa makes an appearance on the Night Before Christmas train, meaning he walks through at the end to wish everyone goodnight. There is not time for a meet and greet or photo. If you prefer more of a Santa experience, consider Santa's Paradise Express or Santa's Christmas Trolley options- both have ample Santa time!
6). Make a day of it in Amish country! Explore the area in and around Ronks, PA, grab dinner, and then change into PJs for the Night Before Christmas Train!
7). If you have a bit of a drive home, bring a toothbrush to brush their teeth in the bathroom before heading home. They're already in their pajamas, you may luck out and just transfer them from the car into bed when you arrive!
*While all opinions are my own, I was provided complimentary tickets in exchange for this review.
