The Hershey Park Christmas train ride is a magical experience that combines the joy of the holiday season with the charm of Hershey, Pennsylvania. While Hersheypark itself doesn’t offer a specific Christmas train ride, the surrounding area provides enchanting train experiences that capture the spirit of the season. From the Holiday Train Show at the Hershey History Center to the festive rides at nearby Strasburg Rail Road, visitors can immerse themselves in a winter wonderland of lights, decorations, and holiday cheer.
What Are the Dates and Times for the Hershey Park Holiday Train Schedule?
While Hersheypark doesn’t have its own Christmas train ride, there are two notable train experiences in the area:
- Holiday Train Show at Hershey History Center
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 2, 2025
-
Times:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10am to 4:00pm
- Last admission: 3:45pm
-
Strasburg Rail Road Christmas Train Experiences
- Dates: November through December 2024
- Times vary by experience type
How Much Do Hershey Park Christmas Train Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on the experience:
Holiday Train Show at Hershey History Center
- Adults: $5
- Kids (age 4-17): $2
- Kids (age 3 and under): Free
- Members: Free
Strasburg Rail Road Christmas Train Experiences
Prices vary by experience type. For example:
– Santa’s Paradise Express (includes meal and amenities)
– Santa Claus Limited (45-minute steam train ride)
Note: Exact prices for Strasburg Rail Road experiences are not provided in the available sources.
What Can Visitors Expect from the Hershey Park Train Ride Experience?
While not directly associated with Hersheypark, the Strasburg Rail Road offers festive train experiences:
- Duration: Typically around 45 minutes for the Santa Claus Limited
- Seating: Various options, including private charters for 8-12 people
- Onboard Amenities:
- Holiday decorations
- Interactions with Santa and elves (on select rides)
- Meals (on certain experiences like Santa’s Paradise Express)
- Unique Features:
- Historic steam train ride through Amish Country
- Readings of ‘A Night Before Christmas’
- Themed locations for Santa and his reindeer
What Accessibility Options Are Available for the Hershey Park Christmas Train Ride?
Accessibility information for the train experiences:
Strasburg Rail Road
- Parking available on-site
- Guests must arrive at the train station independently
- For specific accessibility accommodations, contact Strasburg Rail Road directly
Hershey History Center
- On-site parking available
- Train display located within the museum
- Contact the Hershey History Center for detailed accessibility information
How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Hershey Park Christmas Train Experience?
To enhance your festive train adventure:
- Book in advance: Popular times fill up quickly, especially on weekends and closer to Christmas.
- Dress warmly: Some experiences may involve outdoor waiting or activities.
- Bring a camera: Capture memories with Santa or the beautifully decorated trains.
- Arrive early: Allow time for parking and finding your way to the correct boarding area.
- Check for package deals: Some experiences may offer combo tickets with other attractions.
What Other Holiday Attractions Complement the Hershey Park Christmas Train Ride?
While enjoying the train experiences, consider these nearby holiday attractions:
- Hersheypark Christmas Candylane: Festive rides and light displays
- Hershey Sweet Lights: Drive-through holiday light show
- The Hershey Story Museum: Learn about Milton Hershey and chocolate-making history
- Hershey Gardens: Winter walks and seasonal decorations
Are There Any Special Events or Themed Rides During the Hershey Park Christmas Train Season?
The Strasburg Rail Road offers several themed Christmas train experiences:
- Santa’s Paradise Express:
- Meet Santa on board
-
Enjoy a meal and holiday activities
-
Night Before Christmas Train:
- Listen to a reading of the classic story
-
Cozy nighttime ride through the countryside
-
Santa Claus Limited:
- 45-minute steam train ride
- Brief visit with Santa
What Dining Options Are Available Before or After the Hershey Park Christmas Train Ride?
Enhance your festive outing with these dining suggestions:
- The Chocolate Avenue Grill: American cuisine with a chocolate twist
- The Hershey Pantry: Homestyle breakfast and lunch options
- Fenicci’s of Hershey: Italian fare in a historic setting
- The Mill: Fine dining in a restored 19th-century mill
How Can Visitors Combine the Hershey Park Christmas Train Ride with Other Local Attractions?
Create a full day of holiday cheer:
- Start with the Holiday Train Show at Hershey History Center
- Visit Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane for rides and attractions
- Take a evening Strasburg Rail Road Christmas train ride
- End the night with a drive through Hershey Sweet Lights
What Tips Do Frequent Visitors Have for First-Time Hershey Park Christmas Train Riders?
Seasoned visitors recommend:
- Purchase tickets online to avoid sellouts
- Bring cash for onboard purchases or souvenirs
- Consider weekday visits for smaller crowds
- Pack snacks and water, especially for longer experiences
- Check weather forecasts and dress accordingly
By exploring these festive train experiences and surrounding attractions, visitors can create magical holiday memories in the Hershey area, even without a specific Hershey Park Christmas train ride. The combination of historic charm, holiday cheer, and chocolate-themed fun makes for an unforgettable winter getaway.
References:
1. https://www.visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/holiday-train-show/25007/
2. https://www.hersheyhistory.org/holiday-train-show
3. https://www.strasburgrailroad.com/christmas-train/