The whimsical Garden Railway at Longwood Gardens has been delighting visitors for over 20 years in the fall and holiday seasons and will be on view from September 28, 2024 to January 12, 2025. 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 22. 2024 through January 12, 2025, the railway is one of many attractions throughout the gardens.The magic of the holidays is even more special now that Longwood Reimagined has arrived. Celebrate in new spaces including a soaring West Conservatory and new 1906 fine dining.   Outdoors, stroll among illuminated trees, cozy firepits and amazing tunnels of light.  Tickets are for specific dates and times and sell out quickly – go online to purchase today. Special to our visitors: untimed tickets available only at participating accommodations.

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 23, 2024 through January 3, 2025.


Longwood Gardens Trains


 

The Brandywine Railroad train display at the Brandywine Museum of Art is on view from November 16, 2024 through January 5, 2025. 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 on Sunday November 24, Saturday December 7 and Saturday January 4, 2025. 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.

 

West Chester Railroad Santa Express