Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Holiday Garden Railway
Step into a magical holiday wonderland at the Holiday Garden Railway, where enchanting rail cars chug through a festive landscape illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. Experience the magic day or night, with the 'Nighttime Express' offering an even more spectacular view with laser lights and sparkling displays. It's a marvelous, enchanting experience for visitors of all ages.
What to Expect
Enchanting miniature train display with thousands of holiday lights.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ โ Get tickets
- Parking: Ample free parking is available. Accessible parking is available in the parking lot just beyond the Widener Welcome Center. In the event that the lot is full, overflow parking is offered near the entrance kiosk.
- Accessibility: The site is wheelchair and stroller accessible, however the path within the site is narrow and has a downward slope.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Philadelphia
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- Premier Member Nights on December 4 and 5
- Advance tickets recommended for Nighttime Express
- Discounts available for members and youth for Nighttime Express
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1 hour for Nighttime Express, excluding travel time to/from the site.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Morris Arboretum & Gardens
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Purchase 'Nighttime Express' tickets in advance, as they are required for evening viewing and often sell out due to limited parking.
- Consider bringing a flashlight for the path to the Garden Railway during evening visits, as lighting is minimal.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as the exhibit is outdoors and involves walking on a path with a downward slope.
- Daytime viewing is included with general admission, offering a more relaxed experience without timed entry requirements.
- Check the weather forecast; the trains cannot run in heavy rain, snow, or ice, and cancellations due to weather will be refunded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between daytime viewing and Nighttime Express?
Daytime viewing is included with general admission and offers a chance to see the trains in natural light. Nighttime Express requires a separate advance ticket and provides a more magical experience with laser and sparkling lights against the dark sky.
Are there any discounts available for Nighttime Express?
Members receive discounted pricing for Nighttime Express tickets. However, PennCard, guest passes, or access/library cards do not apply to this special ticketed event.
Can I visit during the day and stay for the evening event?
No, Nighttime Express requires a separate advance ticket and is a distinct event from daytime general admission.
What is the accessibility like for the Holiday Garden Railway?
The exhibit is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but the path is narrow and has a downward slope. Visitors are advised to stay on the path for safety.
What happens if the event is canceled due to weather?
If the event is canceled due to inclement weather (heavy snow, rain, or ice), you will be notified by email and receive a full refund. You would need to repurchase tickets if you wish to attend on an alternate evening.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.