How often does the William H Simpson No. 17 steam locomotive run?
Please check the calendar for specific dates and times. You can do this by clicking on “Calendar”. The power motive is noted in the excursion description. No. 17 typically makes its season debut Memorial Day Weekend.
Are there special events planned?
Yes, there are special events planned all year long. You can check our Calendar or social media sites for our schedule of events.
How do I get my tickets when I order them online?
When ordering online you will receive an email confirmation that your tickets have been processed. Boarding passes will be available at the Historic Station on the day of your scheduled excursion. As always, we are available to assist at 717-942-2370.
How can I change my ticket time/date after my purchase?
While we do not offer refunds, we are happy to help you rebook to another date/excursion. Please email info@www.northerncentralrailway.com or call 717-942-2370 for assistance.
Do you offer refunds?
No, all sales are final. There are no refunds on any ticket purchases.
What about parking?
There are a few small lots near the station with available parking spaces. Additionally, there is street parking on Front Avenue and North Front Street. There are marked handicap spots located directly behind the Historic New Freedom Train Station. See MAP
Can we get group rates?
Yes, special rates apply to groups of 15 or more people. Contact us at info@www.northerncentralrailway.com to request more information.
Is the train handicapped accessible?
Northern Central Railway has limited accessibility, due to the historic nature of our cars. Please note the following:
- A wheelchair lift is available at the Historic Station. On excursions with layovers in other locations, no lifts are available.
- The wheelchair lift allows access to the D Reed Anderson car, so individuals with limited mobility issues and their traveling companions should purchase tickets on the D Reed Anderson car. If you see no available seats on the D Reed Anderson car, please contact us and we will work with you to reserve seats.
- Passengers that can be helped to a train seat by their traveling group can be confident that our train crew will safely store the wheelchair during the ride.
- Our D Reed Anderson car can accommodate passengers who need to stay in their chair, as long as the chair is no wider than 23 inches. Please note that we do not have straps to lock the chair in place.
- The train bathrooms are not handicapped accessible, but we do have accessible restrooms at the station.
- Our Trail Sisters, the Overland Trail and Pacific Trail are NOT handicap accessible. You must be able to walk up 2 to 3 steps to board and walk to your seat. Please note the aisle is narrow and a wheelchair will not fit in the aisle to the seats.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with your questions or specific needs. Our email address is info@www.northerncentralrailway.com.
Can bicycles be accommodated onboard the train?
We have monthly Bike Aboard excursions beginning in May through October. Check out the link for more information.
Are pets allowed on the train?
The Northern Central Railway of York falls under regulations from the Federal Government. Service dogs are allowed on board Northern Central Railway of York trains.
Are there restrooms on the train?
Yes! One of our 1800 coach cars has two restrooms aboard the D Reed Anderson car and is accessible from all cars. There are restrooms on our trail sisters, one on the Pacific Trail and one on the Overland Trail.
Are memberships available?
Memberships are available! Please visit our Membership Page for more details.
How long are the round trip excursions?
- Excursions to Glen Rock will last one hour, and travel 10 miles round trip.
- Excursions to Hanover Junction will last 2.5 hours, and travel 20 miles round trip.
- Excursions to Seven Valleys will last 2.5 hours, and travel 22 miles round trip.
- Excursions to the Howard Tunnel will last 3.5 hours, and travel 28 miles round trip.
Does the train run during inclement weather?
Our trains run rain or shine and promptly as scheduled.
However, the safety of our guests and team members is most important. If a ride is cancelled, we will contact each guest to discuss options to rebook to a later date and time that is convenient to them.
What is there to do before the train departs?
Our guests can visit our on-site gift shop which opens 1 hour prior to departure. We also encourage guests to visit the New Freedom Historic Freight Museum next to our gift shop.
Is the Northern Central Railway a non-profit?
Yes, NCR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational, charitable organization.
Can I bring snacks and drinks on the train?
Yes! Guests are welcome to bring snacks on the train. Drinks must be in a container with a secure lid. There are also snacks and drinks available for purchase in the gift shop.
How can I donate?
There are many ways to donate to NCR! You can see how you can help by clicking the “Donate” button. Thank you for your support!
Are alcoholic beverages permitted on the train?
Passengers are not permitted to bring alcoholic beverages on the train. As of August 2023, Northern Central Railway of York now provides beverage service on select excursions including mixed drinks, wine, beer, soft drinks, and water. All alcoholic beverages must be consumed on the train. See our schedule for select excursion details.
Is smoking permitted?
Smoking and use of tobacco products, including cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are strictly prohibited on Northern Central Railway of York property and trains.
Are strollers and infant carriers allowed on the Train?
Strollers are not allowed on the train, but they can be stored at the Historic Station during the excursion. Infant carriers are allowed if the train is not full. If you choose a special event excursion and the train is full, carriers can be left in the Historic Station.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! Our volunteer positions include flagger, greeter, and others. Click here to visit our volunteer page.
Is there a model railroad at the NCR station?
Yes, we have a model railroad room in our Engine House that will run during our Santa Express excursions only.
