Are tickets required for children and adults?

Yes, all passengers regardless of age need a ticket to board the Royal Adventure Princess Express.

Is the adventure suitable for children under 3 years old?

Children under 3 years may join but should be supervised closely during activities; consider your child’s comfort with group settings.

Can guests bring their own food and drinks onboard?

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted, but Northern Central Railway may offer refreshments during the trip.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?

The Royal Adventure Princess Express offers limited accessibility; please contact Northern Central Railway in advance for details.

How long is the train ride portion of the experience?

The train ride lasts approximately 90 minutes, including stops for activities and photo opportunities.

Are face masks required onboard the train?

Face mask policies may vary; check current health guidelines from Northern Central Railway before your trip.

Royal Adventure Princess Express in New Freedom, PA

Experience a truly magical day with the Royal Adventure Princess Express aboard the historic Northern Central Railway in New Freedom, Pennsylvania. This private outdoor adventure is designed especially for families and children who love fairy tales and princesses. From the moment you board the charming train, you’ll step into a world of enchantment featuring beloved princess characters. The trip includes delightful children’s activities such as archery practice and a touching wishing ceremony, creating memorable moments that engage young adventurers. Along the journey, kids collect stamps in their royal passports, adding a fun element of exploration and accomplishment. The picturesque Pennsylvanian landscapes glide past your window, providing a scenic backdrop for family photos and lasting memories. Whether it’s the joy of meeting royalty, the excitement of hands-on activities, or the relaxing ride through nature, this experience offers a unique blend of entertainment and outdoor fun. Ideal for families looking for a special day trip, the Royal Adventure Princess Express invites guests of all ages to step out of the ordinary and into a magical adventure that they will treasure long after the journey ends.

About Northern Central Railway

Northern Central Railway, based in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, operates heritage train excursions on the original Northern Central Railroad corridor. The railway offers a variety of themed rides aboard restored vintage coaches and locomotives, including steam locomotive No. 85 and historic PRR GP9 diesel power. Trips range from short family excursions to multi-hour historic journeys, with highlights such as the Wild West Express reenactment of Jesse James–era robberies, the Hanover Junction Specials retracing President Lincoln's route to Gettysburg with a stop at the Hanover Junction Museum, seasonal outings like the Pumpkin Patch Express and Oktoberfest Ales on the Rails, and family favorites including the Sundaes on Sunday Express and Pirates and Pixies Adventure Express. Many excursions include on-board narration, scenic travel along the Heritage Rail Trail, and curated stops at historic sites. The railroad emphasizes preservation of railroad heritage through restored equipment and educational experiences that connect communities across southern York County. Vehicles and onboard experiences are maintained by experienced volunteers and staff who follow safety and conservation practices. Tickets, schedules, and trip details are published for each event, and proceeds support continued preservation and operation of historic rail equipment. Northern Central Railway partners with local organizations and museums to provide authentic historical context on select excursions. For visitors, the railway provides accessible parking in New Freedom, clear trip descriptions, and family-friendly amenities, making it a reliable choice for history enthusiasts, families, and railfans seeking authentic heritage train experiences.
Advance reservations are recommended for popular seasonal and special event excursions online.