Experience the Salem Yuletide Special: A Vintage Holiday Train Adventure in Southern New Jersey

Read the full experience

As winter settles over Southern New Jersey, the Woodstown Central Railroad offers a unique way to celebrate the holiday season with its Salem Yuletide Special. Departing from Pederson Park in Salem City, this 35-minute scenic train ride weaves through the tranquil winter landscapes of South Jersey’s forests, farmland, and charming historic towns. Aboard the beautifully restored 1927 Pennsylvania Railroad Parlor Car called "Mineral Spring," guests are transported back nearly a century to a period of elegant rail travel, complete with vintage swivel lounge chairs and festively adorned car interiors that evoke the classic Christmas spirit. The Mineral Spring car itself is a standout, having served on celebrated routes like the Broadway Limited, and now set up with deluxe seating for up to 50 guests. With tables perfect for families or groups, along with a galley equipped to handle refreshments, this car offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere for holiday gatherings. The Salem Yuletide Special isn’t just about the ride—it’s an event. Santa Claus boards the train to visit every family, handing out gifts to the children and spreading cheer throughout the journey. This personal touch heightens the magical feeling aboard the train, making it a memorable outing for children and adults alike. This six-mile round trip presents a rare chance to experience South Jersey’s winter charm from a historic vantage point, tracing along railroad lines that echo decades of local transportation history. Though the train doesn’t fully meet modern accessibility standards due to its vintage equipment, it remains a beloved festive holiday experience. Passengers are advised to arrive early for check-in and boarding at Pederson Park, giving time to soak in the surroundings and prepare for departure. The Salem Yuletide Special is more than a scenic ride—it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and the joy of the season. With festive decorations wrapping every visible surface and the warmth of a shared holiday event, this excursion provides an inviting, immersive glimpse of simpler times. Families exploring New Jersey during the holidays will find it a standout destination for combining local history, winter scenery, and festive cheer. Tickets can be purchased individually or the full Mineral Spring car can be rented for private holiday parties, creating a uniquely personal celebration on the rails.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

35 minutes.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; the ride is seated and low impact

Frequently asked questions

Do all passengers need a ticket?

Yes, every passenger requires a ticket. Children's tickets are divided into ages 0-3 (Toddler) and 4-12 (Child).

Are there restrooms on the train?

Yes, restrooms are available on the train and there is a port-o-potty at South Woodstown Station.

Can I bring pets on the train?

Only registered service animals are allowed on board.

Will the train operate in bad weather?

The railroad makes every effort to run in all weather, but will cancel in extreme conditions and notify guests in advance.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks are permitted but drinks must have a lid or cap to prevent spills.

Is alcohol allowed on the train?

Alcohol is only allowed during specific events organized by the railroad, not on the Yuletide Special.

Local insights

Wildlife

White-tailed deer
Red-tailed hawk

History

The Mineral Spring car dates back to 1927 and was once part of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s iconic Broadway Limited service.

Conservation

Woodstown Central Railroad emphasizes preserving historic railcars and operates with minimal environmental impact while promoting local heritage tourism.

About Woodstown Central Railroad

Woodstown Central Railroad preserves and operates historic passenger excursions in Woodstown, New Jersey, offering seasonal and private train experiences that highlight Southern New Jersey scenery and rail heritage. Founded and maintained by a dedicated preservation team, the operation runs restored vintage equipment including the 1927 Pennsylvania Railroad Table Car "Mineral Spring" and restored 1930s passenger cars for special events. The railroad offers a variety of scheduled excursions, from short family-friendly rides—such as the Woodstown Fall Fest excursion and the Princess‑Superhero Special—to longer scenic trips like the two‑hour Scenic Rambler and 32-mile roundtrip journeys. Seasonal offerings include the Autumn Leaf Pumpkin Train with pumpkin picking at Fenwick Grove, the Salem Ghost Train with storyteller-led historic tours, and holiday and event-specific runs like the Independence Day Express and Father's Day Express. Private rentals are available for up to 50 guests aboard the Mineral Spring table car, making the railroad a unique venue for birthdays, corporate outings, and group events. Each excursion departs from Woodstown or South Woodstown stations and traverses landmarks such as the Oldmans Creek Trestle and Memorial Lake, offering repeated opportunities for photography and nature viewing. Safety protocols and volunteer-led operations emphasize preservation, education, and community engagement. Ticketed excursions are scheduled seasonally; advance reservations are recommended due to limited seating in first class, deluxe, table car, coach, caboose, and open-air seating options. Woodstown Central Railroad combines authentic historic railcars, curated storytelling, and scenic Southern New Jersey routes to deliver memorable rides for families, history enthusiasts, and railfans. Tickets sell quickly.

Base locationSalem, New Jersey

Tours offered59+

Adventure tips

Arrive Early for BoardingPlan to arrive 20-30 minutes before departure at Pederson Park to ensure smooth check-in and boarding.

Bring Hearing ProtectionTrain horns sound at all road crossings and can be loud; consider ear protection if sensitive to noise.

Dress WarmlyWinter temperatures can be cold aboard the train; layered clothing will keep you comfortable during the ride.

Reservations RecommendedSeats in the Mineral Spring car are limited; booking in advance guarantees the deluxe vintage experience.

Recommended gear

Warm Layers: Necessary for comfort during the winter season and cooler train car temperatures.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture festive decorations and scenic views during the ride.
Hearing Protection: Useful to protect ears from loud train horns at road crossings.
Small Backpack or Bag: Convenient for carrying gifts, snacks, and personal items aboard the train.