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Howard Tunnel Special: Vortex Pit Sandwiches and Vintage Coaches through Codorus Valley
A three-hour round-trip aboard Northern Central Railway’s Howard Tunnel Special, featuring a stop at Howard Tunnel, vintage Pullman cars, and a complimentary Vortex boxed lunch.
Howard Tunnel Special: Vortex Pit Sandwiches and Vintage Coaches through Codorus Valley.
This short, scenic outing threads the rolling Codorus Valley aboard restored Pullman and vintage coaches for a three- to four‑hour round trip that includes a brief stop at Howard Tunnel and a boxed Vortex lunch. It’s an easy, immersive way to experience local rail history and valley views without committing to a full‑day expedition.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Vintage coaches and valley views
Travel in restored Pullman‑style and 19th‑century‑styled passenger cars that offer reversible cushioned seats, operable windows and era‑appropriate heating, all while the train runs through the scenic Codorus Valley.
Complimentary Vortex boxed lunch
Every ticket includes a complimentary Vortex boxed lunch—choose the Pit Ham or Pit Turkey sandwich, served with chips and a cookie—ordered in advance and served aboard the excursion.
Howard Tunnel stretch
The train makes a short stop at Howard Tunnel to allow passengers to stretch their legs and take in the tunnel environs before returning to base.
What the day feels like
How the outing unfolds
Board at the Northern Central Railway’s New Freedom base, settle into a restored coach, and ride a roughly 30‑mile round trip through the Historic Codorus Valley. The train pauses at Howard Tunnel for a short stretch stop; passengers dine on their pre‑ordered Vortex boxed lunches during the journey. The full excursion runs approximately three to four hours.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion lasts about three to four hours; arrive 30 minutes before boarding and check in at the gift shop to receive your boarding pass.
All tickets include a complimentary Vortex boxed lunch (Pit Ham or Pit Turkey with chips and a cookie) that must be ordered in advance. Beverage service aboard includes wine, beer, mixed drinks and soft drinks.
Choose from a variety of restored coaches—combine cars, 1870s‑ and 1860s‑style passenger cars and an open‑air coach—each with period seating and heating/ventilation features.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Howard Tunnel Special?
The excursion runs approximately three to four hours.
Is a meal included?
Yes. All tickets include a complimentary Vortex boxed lunch (Pit Ham or Pit Turkey) with chips and a cookie; boxed lunches must be ordered in advance.
Can I get drinks onboard?
Beverage service is available on the excursion, including wine, beer, mixed drinks and soft drinks.
Where do I check in and when should I arrive?
Please visit the gift shop to check in and receive your boarding pass, and arrive 30 minutes before boarding.
Is the Howard Tunnel stop accessible?
No. The wheelchair lift is not available at Howard Tunnel; passengers who wish to exit there must be able to climb up and down six steps without crew assistance.
Are there discounted tickets for members?
Membership holders should call 717‑942‑2370 or email [email protected] to book discounted tickets.