Heritage Train Adventures with The Stourbridge Line in Honesdale - Scranton

Heritage Train Adventures with The Stourbridge Line in Honesdale

Scrantoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours depending on the trip

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels with most activities seated aboard trains

Overview

The Stourbridge Line in Honesdale, PA offers history-rich and theme-driven train excursions set against the Pocono Mountains’ vibrant seasonal landscapes. From festive holiday rides to dinner trains and family events, these journeys combine entertainment, nature, and local lore.

Details

Set in the charming borough of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, The Stourbridge Line offers an immersive lineup of themed train journeys that bring the rich history and natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains to life. This rail experience combines the nostalgia of vintage railcars with a variety of seasonal and event-driven excursions, making it a unique destination for families, food lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to add a fresh twist to their Pocono adventure.

Honesdale, recognized as the birthplace of the American railroad, sits framed by rolling hills, deciduous forests, and quiet river valleys. The Stourbridge Line captures this historical significance with excursions like The Great Train Robbery Run, where story-driven entertainment meets the remarkable landscape. These aren’t just rides; they’re active experiences that wrap visitors in local lore and vibrant scenery throughout the year.

The calendar here is packed with special themed events — from hands-on family digs at the Dino Dig Express to spirited Halloween celebrations aboard the Pumpkin Patch Express - Boo Bash. Food and drink are also central: the Deluxe Dinner Train and Wine & Cheese Experience offer refined palate-pleasers against a scenic backdrop of passing wilderness. For those drawn to performance, Comedy Show Specials and Murder Mystery Limited events provide lively entertainment set inside well-maintained historic railcars.

As fall colors ignite the landscape, the Pocono Foliage Express and Autumn Dinner Train standout, blending dazzling views of maples and oaks with sumptuous meals. During winter, the Santa Christmas Tree Express brings festive cheer, making it a focal point for holiday outings. Each excursion highlights the seasonal features and wildlife of the region, from vibrant birdlife to crisp, clear air often missing in more urban escapes.

The Stourbridge Line’s commitment to preserving rail heritage while offering contemporary, engaging trips creates a compelling intersection of history, outdoor beauty, and fun. This makes it more than a train ride — it’s a chance to connect to the past and the outdoors while traveling at a relaxed pace through one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic corners.

Adventure Tips

Reserve Early for Special Events

Popular themed rides like the Pumpkin Patch and Murder Mystery sell out quickly—booking early ensures a spot.

Arrive Before Departure

Stations in Honesdale can be busy, especially for dinner trains; arriving 30 minutes early helps avoid stress.

Dress for the Weather and Station Waits

Waiting on historic platforms can be chilly or sunny; layering is key for comfort during seasonal rides.

Check Accessibility Options

The Stourbridge Line offers accommodations for guests with mobility concerns; contact ahead for details.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Walk the nearby Canal Street Historic District after your ride
  • Visit Dyberry Creek for light hiking and fishing nearby

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer frequent the forest edges
  • Early morning birdwatchers can spot woodpeckers and hawks

History

Honesdale is renowned as the starting point of the Delaware and Hudson Gravity Railroad, one of the earliest railroads in the U.S., established in 1829.

Conservation

The Stourbridge Line practices sustainable operations by preserving historic equipment and limiting environmental impact on the surrounding Pocono ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Midday for vibrant foliage
Late afternoon winter light

Best Viewpoints

  • Lookout points near Dyberry Creek
  • Train crossing bridges
  • Station platforms with vintage railcars

What to Photograph

Colorful autumn leaves
Historic train interiors
Pocono mountain ridges

Recommended Gear

Layered Clothing

Essential

Prepare for temperature changes on and off the train during seasonal events.

all specific

Comfortable Shoes

Essential

You’ll be boarding and alighting on sometimes uneven station platforms.

all specific

Camera or Smartphone

Capture colorful landscapes and memorable themed moments aboard the train.

all specific

Light Rain Jacket

Weather in the Poconos can shift quickly during transitional seasons.

spring|fall specific