We recently felt that excitement when we took a ride on the West Chester Railroad on "The Great Pumpkin Express" where we had an enjoyable Fall family day and made terrific memories. We arrived at the station in time to retrieve our tickets and hop aboard to choose a seat. It's recommended to get there at least 15 minutes early and you may want the extra time to snap a photo or two or get situated in your seat of choice. Seats are not assigned.
If you ride The Great Pumpkin Express, kids can come dressed in costume and will enjoy treats at the Glen Mills station. The vintage train cars are decorated inside with Halloween and Fall decor to set the festive mood. The scenic train ride along Chester Creek to the Glen Mills Station is about 30 minutes long. The ride takes you past Westtown, Cheyney and Locksley stations before making a stop at the beautiful Glen Mills station. Here you can get off the train and stroll the station grounds for about 20 minutes then hop back aboard and head back to West Chester. You can read more about the history and train route here. The scenery and the station itself at the Glen Mills stop are beautiful. It's a great spot for a Fall photo opportunity.
Good to know tips for families....
• There are portable bathrooms at each end of the ride, at the West Chester Station and the Glen Mills station.
• There is ample, free parking at the Market Street Station.
• Strollers can be stowed aboard the train, but carriers are recommended.
• Most trains have a snack bar available during the ride. You may bring food aboard and there is a picnic grove at the Glen Mills station if you want to sit an have a bite to eat.
• Don't forget your Halloween costumes if you ride The Great Pumpkin Express! My kids wanted me to be sure to point this out - they loved having a chance to wear their costumes and even get some Halloween treats. Kids can even bring a trick-or-treat bucket to hold their treats, but it isn't necessary.
• Harry Potter fans - don't miss some of the Harry Potter themed decor inside the Glen Mills station.
To read more about the West Chester Railroad and to purchase tickets visit westchesterrr.com. Follow the West Chester Railroad on Facebook for other updates and information.
Disclaimer: I was provided passes for my family to ride the West Chester Railroad to facilitate this review, but all opinions expressed are my own.
