The Wilmington and Western Railroad (WWRR) is Delaware’s operating railroad museum. Guests ride in steam and diesel-powered locomotives while sightseeing in northern New Castle County. The railroad dates back to the late 1800s when it was used to transport goods between the mills on Red Clay Creek and the Port of Wilmington. Today the line operates to raise awareness and appreciation of the industry and beauty of the Red Clay Valley. All aboard!

The Mt. Cuba Meteor train ride travels up the Red Clay Valley to Mt. Cuba Picnic Grove, where guests enjoy a 1/2 hour layover to stretch their legs or have a picnic.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

The Hockessin Flyer is a 2.5 hour round-trip ride along the entire length of the railroad line to Hockessin.

Mandy Jansen / flickr

The WWRR offers several special event train rides and programs that make rail travel extra special.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Each fall watch the colorful foliage of Delaware by train. Imagine taking in the reds, yellows and oranges whizzing by you as you relax and gaze out the window at the landscape.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Meet Santa and sing carols with him! Talk about a jolly holiday.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Jump on the “Doodlebug” railcar to reflect on the year and enjoy a peaceful evening ride past many decorated homes.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

No matter the season, an old fashioned train ride makes it even more special. Snow never looked so beautiful.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

History comes alive, too! Step back in time during Civil War Skirmish Weekend. Travel with the troops and relive the past as you travel to a skirmish between Union and Confederate soldiers, performed by actors in period costumes.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

A group of Wild West hooligans take over the train and try to outsmart the sheriff during the Wild West Robbery ride. Will they succeed in stealing the gold?

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

All aboard! This is the only Pennsylvania Railroad Doodlebug in regular operation.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Comfy seats make you feel right at home.

Mandy Jansen / flickr

You’ll feel like an explorer as you cross several bridges over Red Clay Creek.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Adults aren’t the only ones having fun! Know a youngster with a passion for trains? They can spend a day learning about maintaining steam locomotives and the tracks at the Railroading Day Camp. They’ll also get to ride in a caboose!

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Cabooses can also be rented for birthday parties and events.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

So the next time you need a retreat and don’t want to travel too far from home, take a day to enjoy a train ride.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

It may inspire you to appreciate the small things in life a bit more.

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Learning about the Wilmington & Western railroad makes me want to pack my bags and jump on a train. Have you ever been aboard one of these railcars? Tell us about it in the comments!

Wilmington & Western Railroad / Facebook

Mandy Jansen / flickr

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