The whimsical Garden Railway at Longwood Gardens has been delighting visitors for over 20 years in the fall and holiday seasons. Located outdoors, close to the Terrace Restaurant, the railway blends horticulture, engineering, and fun for guests of all ages. During A Longwood Christmas, from November 17, 2023 through January 7, 2024, the railway is one of many attractions throughout the gardens. Outdoors over 500,000 lights bedazzle towering trees, cozy firepits offer a warm respite, and amazing tunnels of light beckon to be explored. Special untimed tickets to Longwood Gardens are especially helpful during the busy holiday season and available at participating accommodations throughout the Brandywine Valley.
Another nearby holiday treasure - Yuletide at Winterthur celebrates the heritage of holiday toy trains with the "Twelve Days of Christmas" Train Display on view from December 22, 2023 through January 2, 2024.
The Brandywine Railroad train display at the Brandywine Museum of Art is on view from November 18, 2023 through January 7, 2024. It has been a favorite holiday experience for over 50 years. Generations have reveled in the 2000 feet of track and antique railway that roll through a small village, farm, factories, a drive-in movie theater and even a carnival. Experience a special behind the scenes visit with the beloved Brandywine Railroad at Breakfast with the Trains (Saturday December 9, 2023 and Saturday January 6, 2024). Discover how the extensive layout is created and maintained. Events include a private tour of the trains in action with Brandywine Railroad engineers, before public hours, and a continental breakfast in the Milestone Café.
For more holiday fun on the rail, train lovers can enjoy the West Chester Railroad Santa Express. Join Santa on this 75 minute journey in the decorated, and heated train as it rolls through the Brandywine countryside. Santa will be meeting all passengers during the ride, so don’t forget the list! Plan some time in downtown West Chester before or after the ride for a meal and all-important holiday shopping.
