Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ride?
The run from West Chester to Glen Mills and back to West Chester takes about 90 minutes round trip.
Do you take credit cards?
Yes. We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover.
Does the train make any stops?
Yes all trains makes one 20 minute stop at the historic Glen Mills station before returning to West Chester. During this stop riders may explore the station and our picnic grove along the Chester Creek.
What time does the ticket office open?
The office opens about 45 minutes before the first scheduled run. We recommend buying your tickets online here. Special event trains sell out fast!
I bought tickets online, now what?
You must print the confirmation sheet that you received via the email address you provided us. On the day of your trip, you bring that confirmation sheet to our ticket window and you will receive the tickets that you have paid for. This is very important that you remember your confirmation sheet. A confirmation sheet is not a train ticket.
Why do I have to pay a handling fee on my online order?
The handling fee is a fee that is collected by the ticketing company that we use to provide our customers the convenience of advance online sales. This fee is not applied to tickets bought at the ticket window.
Are there restrooms on the train?
No, none of our trains have rest rooms in them. There are portable facilities at the Market Street station and at Glen Mills station.
Is there parking available?
There is ample parking available at Market Street station free of charge.
Are your trains handicapped accessible?
We can make accommodations on our trains but we do have some restrictions. The doorways on our vintage equipment are typically not wide enough to accommodate power chairs, but may be able to accommodate a portable wheelchair. Please ask your ticket agent for further assistance.
Can I bring a stroller on the train?
Riders are encouraged to use carriers instead of strollers. If a stroller is absolutely necessary, the stroller will be stowed by the Conductor.
How early should I arrive?
Please allow yourself at least 15 minutes before your train's scheduled departure. West Chester Railroad does its best to adhere promptly to our schedule. If you miss your scheduled train, we will try our best to get you to board the next train if seating is available.
Can I bring food on the train?
Yes you may bring food on the train. We ask that you please be courteous of our train crew and others and please do not leave trash or food on the train.
Our all volunteer crew does not appreciate cleaning up messes!
Can I board at Glen Mills?
Due to limited and hazardous parking at Glen Mills Station, ALL trains will originate at West Chester Station ONLY.
How old are the trains we are riding on?
Our coaches were built between 1931 to 1932 for the Reading Railroad. They were redone with new seats, floors and ceilings in the mid 1960s. They were originally painted Blue and Cream, and were given the term Blueliners. For more information on our equipment, please click here.
Its cold out, are your coaches heated?
Yes our coaches have heat in them during the cold months. Please be advised that even with heaters, it may still be slightly on the cooler side inside our coaches. Dress for the weather outside!
The weather is not great, are you still running?
In many cases yes. We run our trains rain, shine or snow. Only in certain cases where operating conditions could be hazardous do we cancel trips.
Can I rent the train for a party?
Yes! Our dining car may be rented during scheduled runs (some restrictions apply). Our whole train can also be rented for an unscheduled charter trip.
More information.
How can I volunteer?
We always need volunteers! Please click here to find out more.