Runaway Train Oktoberfest Beer Tasting in the Poconos: Honesdale Brew & Heritage Rail Ride

Ride a vintage railcar through the Pocono Mountains and raise a stein on the Runaway Train Oktoberfest Beer Tasting, a 2.5–3 hour celebration of fall color, craft beer, and local brewing craft. Departing from Honesdale Station in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, this trip pairs the historic Stourbridge Line railroad with Runaway Train Brewery for a behind-the-scenes brewery tour, a hearty lunch, and souvenir keepsakes.

The core of the experience is the scenic train run: hardwood forests on the Pocono plateau flare into saturated maples and birches as the track winds along gentle ridges and river hollows. The ride highlights the region’s Appalachian plateau geology, where older sandstones and shales form broad slopes rather than sharp peaks, so vistas emphasize canopy color and river corridors rather than alpine exposure. Onboard, certified beer hosts guide tasters through two pints of Runaway Train Brewery’s Oktoberfest offerings, pairing pretzels, mustard, and a pickle dip with tasting notes that explain malt profiles, hop balance, and lagering technique.

After the ride, guests step into Runaway Train Brewery for a private, behind-the-scenes brewery tour that explains mash schedules, fermentation vessels, and the brass and stainless hardware that shape each batch. Lunch centers on beer-braised bratwurst with cabbage and potato salad—robust, comfort food that suits the brisk fall air—and each ticket includes a Runaway Train souvenir to remember the day. The experience is 21+ and ticketed; the known meeting point is Honesdale Station.

What makes this offering stand out is its marriage of cultural and natural senses: a working heritage railroad and an independent craft brewery staged against some of Pennsylvania’s most reliable autumn color. The Stourbridge Line’s vintage cars lend tactile history to the ride, while the brewery’s small-batch operations give visitors an inside look at regional beer making. Together they create a short, social, low-effort outdoor outing that still feels exploratory.

Practical note: the outing involves minimal walking and standing; comfortable shoes and layers are recommended for platform time and the brewery tour. The season—primarily September and October—maximizes foliage and brewing themes. Honesdale provides nearby lodging and dining if you want to build a weekend around the train. For anyone who likes craft beer, local history, or accessible nature viewing, the Runaway Train Oktoberfest Beer Tasting is a clever, convivial way to experience the Poconos.

Seats aboard the Stourbridge Line fill quickly on peak foliage weekends, so book early and bring a government ID for age verification. Parking is available near Honesdale Station; inquire with the operator for exact lot locations. If mobility is limited, call ahead to confirm boarding assistance and brewery access. This event supports small businesses by directing ticket revenue to local vendors and showcases how regional rail and craft beer can create accessible experiences.