Is the Wine & Cheese Express suitable for groups?

Yes, the experience is ideal for groups of friends or family looking for a relaxed social outing.

Are children allowed on the trip?

This event is restricted to passengers 21 and older due to alcohol tasting.

Can I choose which wines I taste?

Yes, guests select five wines to sample from Lavender Acres Winery’s offerings.

Is food included with the tasting?

A mini charcuterie board is paired with the wine tasting to complement the flavors.

Are there non-alcoholic beverage options?

Designated Driver tickets provide water, soft drinks, and snacks onboard.

Is parking available at the departure location?

Yes, there is parking available near 117 N Front St, New Freedom for passengers.

Wine & Cheese Express with Northern Central Railway, PA | Events | Food Tour

Set in the charming town of New Freedom, Pennsylvania, the Wine & Cheese Express offers a unique twist on outdoor recreation—combining a scenic rail journey with an artisanal tasting experience. Departing from 117 N Front St, this two-hour round trip transports guests aboard vintage Pullman cars, inviting a slower pace of enjoyment through York County’s rolling countryside. As the train rolls south to historic Hanover Junction, passengers settle into the polished interiors of the Overland Trail Lounge Car or the Pacific Trail Passenger Car, both preserved mid-century gems showcasing classic rail craftsmanship and air-conditioned comfort.

The highlight of the ride is a tasting of five wines from Lavender Acres Winery, the 2025 official partner of Northern Central Railway. This winery, located in nearby Hellam Township, is known for its carefully crafted selections balanced between bold and nuanced. Guests taste from a choice of eleven varietals, paired with a thoughtfully prepared mini charcuterie board courtesy of Ale Craft Brewery. Each passenger receives a souvenir glass to sip from, adding a keepsake element to the journey. Beyond the indulgence, the trip invites relaxation—friends and family reclining into plush seats while the scenery unfolds beyond the window.

Northern Central Railway’s Wine & Cheese Express stands apart in the local outdoor scene by blending historic railroading with culinary delight. It offers an inviting social setting that complements nearby hiking and biking trails while tapping into Pennsylvania’s growing wine trail culture. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast or a casual weekend adventurer, the express delivers an approachable way to enjoy the region’s heritage and flavors.

Designated Driver tickets provide inclusive non-alcoholic refreshments, ensuring everyone can participate safely. This ride not only honors the past but also enriches the local experience by supporting regional producers and historic preservation. For anyone seeking an engaging day trip from York County or nearby urban centers, the Wine & Cheese Express is a distinct choice that celebrates place, palate, and pastime.

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.