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Ride through Pennsylvania’s past on vintage trains with The Milk & Honey Express. Discover charming towns and scenic landscapes while delving into railway history on this nostalgic journey.
Ride through Pennsylvania’s past on vintage trains with The Milk & Honey Express. Discover charming towns and scenic landscapes while delving into railway history on this nostalgic journey.
Book with Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad · Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
The Milk & Honey Express offers a unique journey through Pennsylvania’s rich railroad history, connecting visitors with the golden age of train travel. Operating in the scenic towns of Middletown and Hummelstown, this vintage train ride is a step back in time, perfect for families, history buffs, and train enthusiasts alike. The route meanders through lush farmland and charming small-town landscapes, offering glimpses of historic bridges, old station buildings, and rolling hills. What sets this experience apart is the authentic vintage train cars, meticulously restored to preserve their initial charm, plus knowledgeable guides who share captivating stories about the region’s railroad heritage. As the train chugs along, guests can enjoy an immersive atmosphere reminiscent of the early 20th century, with classic conductors’ announcements, period-appropriate décor, and scenic vistas. This journey is a highlight in the local outdoor recreation scene, blending historical curiosity with outdoor adventure. The routes are designed to be accessible, with options suitable for all ages and physical abilities, making it a family-friendly outing that feels both educational and entertaining. Whether you’re a train aficionado or simply seeking a leisurely way to enjoy Pennsylvania’s outdoors, the Milk & Honey Express creates moments of nostalgia amid picturesque settings. Its dedicated staff ensures safety and comfort, and the experience supports local preservation efforts that keep Pennsylvania’s railway history alive. This adventure isn’t just a ride—it’s a chance to step back in time along the scenic tracks that have long told stories of change and progress across Central Pennsylvania. It’s a memorable outing that brings history to life, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of rail travel and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
easy.
1.5–2 hours.
Open to all fitness levels, no physical exertion required
Most rides last between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route selected.
Yes, vintage train cars are equipped with restrooms for passenger convenience.
The station and some train cars are accessible; please contact ahead to accommodate specific needs.
While onboard snacks are available, you’re welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.
Pets are usually not permitted onboard, but check with the operator for special arrangements.
All ages are welcome; children usually enjoy the experience especially with family-friendly narratives.
The train route follows historic tracks laid in the early 1900s, integral to Pennsylvania’s transportation development.
The operation supports sustainable tourism by maintaining vintage trains and promoting preservation of local railway history.
Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad operates a historic 11‑mile heritage railway on the 1889 Milk & Honey Line, offering seasonal and themed excursions in central Pennsylvania. The railroad runs narrated scenic trips where a conductor shares local history, including stories about the Union Canal, while passengers travel vintage equipment. Signature experiences include the Fall Foliage Express, Ice Cream Sundae Express, High Tea Train, Polar Bear Express (Ride With Santa!), Pumpkin Patch Express, Murder Mystery Dinner Trains, Santa's Surprise Train, and The Milk & Honey Express. Each trip combines railway heritage with purpose-built programming: the Fall Foliage Express features autumn panoramas and narration; the Ice Cream Sundae Express offers an intimate caboose dessert experience with limited seating and required reservations; the High Tea Train delivers a 1.5‑hour gourmet tea service with scones, sandwiches, fruit, and desserts; and holiday trains bring children onboard to meet Santa, receive gifts, and take photos. Murder Mystery Dinner Trains provide a 2.5‑hour interactive dining and entertainment event with a chance to win prizes. The Pumpkin Patch Express transports riders to a pumpkin patch for seasonal family fun. The railroad emphasizes safety, historic preservation, and guest experience. Trains run on established tracks with trained staff and scheduled departures; some specialty runs have limited seating and require advance reservations. By maintaining vintage equipment and curated onboard programs, Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad provides authentic heritage rail experiences for families, rail enthusiasts, and visitors seeking seasonal events. Tickets are available online and at the station on scheduled service days. Plan ahead.
Book with Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad