Customer Testimonials

Thank You for an Awesome Train Excursion experience!

Every member of the R&N RR Team was friendly and focused on the riders having as much safe fun as possible. We had a beautiful Sunday and honestly, we were each genuinely excited to participate in this adventure. The entire ride was very smooth and the narration fun and helpful as we traveled through various areas. The Steam Engine was incredible to see as well as listen to, many people were at various points along the ride to wave and take pictures. Really quite a few all along the way. Much fun was had waving to children with huge smiles on their faces to see this train. Our time in Jim Thorpe went by very quickly, even a horse carriage ride to get the lay of the land. Last, but certainly not least was the thrilling view from the High Bridge – Wow, such beauty from a world class view! We loved every second of it, sincerely. I am always impressed when I visit the Port Clinton and Schuylkill Haven facilities – You do this right! I will communicate with everyone I know, just how much fun this excursion is from beginning to end.

- Jeff Schantz

Outstanding experience riding the RDC to Jim Thorpe! When purchasing the tickets over the phone, Lis was extremely helpful providing information and answering my questions. The train left on time, and was clean, comfortable, and the perfect vantage point for watching the scenery pass by. So glad RBMN is keeping these old trains running. Many thanks to the staff who made this trip enjoyable!

- Andrew J. Toth

Greatest train experience ever! My grandparents took me and my boyfriend to Jim Thorpe on this train. Super friendly staff, adorable train, just great all around! We're looking for an excuse just to take the train somewhere again!

- Gabriela

I took my family on the Santa excursion to Port Clinton and back on 11/29/2020. We were met with a warm welcome from the start as the ticket booth attendant answered our every question without hesitation. The train ride was as smooth as possible and the employees in our car were extremely patient with my 5 year old who had a million questions. The narrator in our car ever referred us to a few other railroads that our son may enjoy. I will definitely be taking my family back to future events!

- Than Harrington

What a hidden gem! We were looking for a fall excursion and stumbled upon the Reading & Northern Fall Foliage “Rail Ramble.” For only $39 per person, this was a great bang for the buck and made for a pleasant outing on a beautiful fall day. Day trip involved a 5 hour round trip train ride from the Reading, PA station and 3.5 hours in the town of Jim Thorpe. Having spent far too much time indoors this year given COVID it was great to experience nature again both from the train window (we saw deer, ducks, geese, and even a bald eagle) and while walking along the various trails in Jim Thorpe (Note: The trails mostly cater to mountain bikers, so be on the lookout.) As others have noted, Jim Thorpe gets VERY busy during the fall season. Expect a 40min-1 hour wait for the better restaurants in town, but thankfully, there are also a lot of grab ‘n go eateries too. I also went on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway ($20) while in Jim Thorpe assuming it would provide a really nice view, but it was an incredible disappointment. If you don’t take the train to Jim Thorpe then it makes sense to go on the scenic railway, but otherwise don’t bother. Overall, great trip and really appreciated the commentary provided by the manager while on the train to better understand the landscape we were looking at & facts about the towns passing through. Thanks to Matt, Ian and Russ for a great day on the Reading & Northern Railroad line.

- AV9920

This was a fantastic and unusual train ride. The cars had the engines underneath and was driven by a person inside the car. They also had a snack area in the one car. They had a very informative person give you the highlights along the way. Even told you where you could spot a bald eagle. Very family friendly and affordable. Would definitely recommend to everyone.

- Soni Avey

The yearly fall foliage steam train ride from Reading to Jim Thorpe is THE BEST train excursion on the east coast. The train is clean, the restrooms at the station and on the train are clean. The staff is knowledgeable and so friendly. The scenery is top notch and the destination is a great bonus. We make this a tradition each year and this is well worth the price! The Reading & Northern is an A+ act. We are so grateful for the experience and memories it provides!

- Jeffrey S.

This was a great little train ride fun for the entire family from young to old. Santa came round and was so wonderful, and the details on his outfit were outstanding! Down to his belt that was real leather and embossed with a Santa and sleigh on the back.  For the cost of this it was perfect for families to enjoy around the holidays.

- Cyndi Cocci

The Christmas ride to Port Clinton was wonderful. Santa and Mrs. Claus were so good with the children and stopped at each family to take pictures. We were in the observation dome car and the view was beautiful. Much more reasonably priced and a longer trip than other train rides we've been on.

- Hannelore Hauke

Husband is a huge train buff so we took the kids to ride the Santa train on a whim. Tickets were available same day. The Mr. & Mrs. Claus duo were adorable. Great with the kiddos and loved on the babies. Even my 11yo seemed to enjoy himself. We enjoyed waving at the stopped cars at the crossings. Just long enough to not get too bored. Clean & affordable. Free parking.

- L Sneddon

Amazing train ride. Rode in the dome car. Worth every penny. Once in a lifetime experience

- The Train Guy

Easy to find. Courteous, knowledgeable staff.

- Mary N.

Absolutely would do this every year. Wonderful afternoon with family. Ride is 80 minutes and worth the price.

- Barbara H.

Rode the Reading and Northern steam train # 2102 to Jim Thorpe, Pa, and loved the trip. A great railroad. Will definitely ride the train again.

- David P.

I loved how the station was decorated for the holidays. I came for the last weekend of #425 before it goes into the shop for inspection and overhaul. It was a great experience!

- Luis H.