NEW FREEDOM TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
A short, sweet sortie through southern York County aboard the Ice Cream Express
A one-hour round-trip from New Freedom to Glen Rock on vintage railcars, with a cup of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream included — this guide explains what to expect and how to ride.
A short, sweet sortie through southern York County aboard the Ice Cream Express.
The Ice Cream Express is a weekend round‑trip excursion operated by the Northern Central Railway that ferries riders from New Freedom to Glen Rock and back, pairing rolling farmland and creekside scenery with the charm of restored nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century passenger cars and an included cup of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Included
Tickets include a cup of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, a central appeal of this special evening excursion and a clear reason families and casual riders book the trip.
Scenic Valley Views
The line threads southern York County’s rolling hills and peaceful valleys, paralleling and occasionally crossing the South Branch of the Codorus Creek, offering continuous countryside views for the short round trip.
Restored Coaches and an Open-Air Gondola
Riders can choose among vintage coaches — including the Abraham Lincoln car, the D. Reed Anderson combine, the New Freedom coach and a newly restored open-air Gondola — each offering distinct historical character and viewing perspectives.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
A compact, convivial outing: the Ice Cream Express departs New Freedom, carries passengers through pastoral countryside to Glen Rock, and returns within roughly an hour, letting riders settle into plush Victorian-style seats or stand in the open-air Gondola while savoring their included ice cream and the passing scenery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should take precautions.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The special evening excursion is a roughly one-hour round trip; guests are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to check in.
Dress for the elements: the Gondola is open-air and the ride runs in all seasons, so bring layers or rain protection for comfort outdoors; choose indoor coaches if you prefer a seated, sheltered ride.
Visit the operator’s gift shop at New Freedom to check in and receive your boarding pass; the ticket price includes an ice cream cup from Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Ice Cream Express ride?
The round-trip excursion runs approximately one hour.
Is ice cream included with the ticket?
Yes — the ticket price includes a cup of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream.
Where and when do I check in?
Passengers should visit the New Freedom gift shop to check in and receive their boarding pass and are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure.
Are there accessible seating options onboard?
Yes — the D. Reed Anderson combine car is handicapped accessible and contains two restrooms.
Can I ride in an open-air car?
Yes — the Gondola car is a standing-only, open-air car restored for outdoor viewing; passengers can roam the car during the ride.
Who operates the Ice Cream Express?
The excursion is operated by the Northern Central Railway.