Wine & Cheese Express with Northern Central Railway, PA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours round trip
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels
Overview
Ride vintage train cars through Pennsylvania’s York County and savor a curated wine tasting featuring Lavender Acres Winery. The Wine & Cheese Express blends historic charm with regional flavors in a scenic two-hour journey.
Wine & Cheese Express featuring Lavender Acres Winery
21 plus • Wine Trasting on board the NCR!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a delightful journey to Hanover Junction with Lavender Acres Winery, the official 2025 NCR Winery. Enjoy a curated wine tasting featuring five selections, paired with a mini charcuterie board. Relax in vintage train cars as you sip and savor the experience, making unforgettable memories with friends.
Sip and snack on your way to Hanover Junction with Lavender Acres Winery, the official 2025 NCR Winery! Nestled in York County’s Hellam Township, Lavender Acres Winery offers a high-quality wine selection sure to tantalize your taste-buds. Passengers receive a souvenir glass, and choose five wines for tasting from a list of eleven! A special mini charcuterie board will be provided by Ale Craft Brewery! After the tasting, you will choose your favorite and finish with a full glass of wine as we head southbound to the historic station. Grab your friends and hop aboard, relax, and sip your way to Hanover Junction. Approximately two hours round trip.
Designated Driver tickets will also be available and include water, soft drinks, and snacks.
Membership Holders: Please call 717 942 2370 Ext 102 to book your half-price tickets.
Please Note
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Please visit our Gift Shop to check in and receive your tickets located at 117 North Front Street New Freedom, Pa.
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Please arrive 30 minutes before boarding.
Coach Accommodation Options
Overland Trail Lounge Car
!Description of image
The Overland Trail was built by the Pullman Standard Car Manufacturing Company in 1949. The 39-seat club-lounge car was originally owned by Southern Pacific Railroad and then Amtrak. It features a Streamline Moderne design, a quarter-circle bar, and a barbershop. The Overland Trail has been in the care of Bill Hatrick since 1987.
Pacific Trail Passenger Car
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The Pacific Trail was built by the Pullman Standard Car Manufacturing Company. It was delivered to Union Pacific Railroad in 1950 and was eventually sold to Amtrak. The 44-seat chair car was used for second-class travel and features plenty of legroom and restrooms. The Pacific Trail was purchased by Bill Hatrick in 1983.
Both passenger cars are enclosed and fully air-conditioned.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to receive your tickets and settle in comfortably.
Dress for Comfort
Wear layered clothing to stay comfortable inside air-conditioned vintage cars, especially in transitional seasons.
Designated Driver Options Available
If you’re not drinking alcohol, select the Designated Driver ticket that includes water, soft drinks, and snacks.
Bring a Camera
Capture the historic cars and the pastoral views during the journey to Hanover Junction.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern bluebirds
History
Northern Central Railway follows a critical rail corridor dating to the mid-19th century, long vital for commerce and travel in southern Pennsylvania.
Conservation
Efforts focus on maintaining the historic rail corridor’s surroundings while promoting sustainable tourism practices with local producers like Lavender Acres Winery.
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Adventure Hotspots in York, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Helps adjust to temperature changes inside and outside the train cars.
spring specific
Sun Hat
Provides shade during boarding and outdoor waiting areas.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing the vintage railcars and scenic countryside.
Comfortable Shoes
Needed for walking at the stations and boarding the train safely.