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Wilmington & Western Railroad: A Ride Through History

Journey through time on the Wilmington & Western Railroad, exploring Delaware's Red Clay Valley with scenic steam and diesel train excursions.

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Experience a nostalgic journey through Delaware's scenic Red Clay Valley aboard the Wilmington & Western Railroad. This heritage railroad offers steam and diesel-powered train rides, transporting you back to a time when rail travel was a vital part of the region's commerce and community.

A brief summary to Wilmington & Western Railroad

Local tips

  • Arrive early to explore Greenbank Station's amenities, including food trucks and a gift shop.
  • Check the schedule for themed excursions like the Easter Bunny Express or the Holiday Lights Express for a unique experience.
  • Consider a picnic at the Mount Cuba Picnic Grove during the Mt. Cuba Meteor excursion.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Greenbank Station, the boarding location for the Wilmington & Western Railroad, is located at 2201 Newport Gap Pike (Route 41 North) in Wilmington, DE. From I-95, take Route 41 North. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    DART First State provides bus service in the Wilmington area. Check DART's website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules to connect to Greenbank Station. A one-way bus fare is $2.00.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Wilmington. A ride from downtown Wilmington to Greenbank Station is approximately 7 miles and costs around $15-$25, depending on demand.

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Discover more about Wilmington & Western Railroad

The Wilmington & Western Railroad, operating out of Greenbank Station, provides a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Red Clay Valley. Chartered in 1867, the railroad played a crucial role in transporting goods from the mills along Red Clay Creek to the Port of Wilmington. The line officially opened for freight and passenger service in 1872, connecting downtown Wilmington with Landenberg, PA. Today, the Wilmington & Western Railroad offers a variety of scenic excursions, including the Hockessin Flyer and the Mt. Cuba Meteor, which run on weekends during the operating season. Themed excursions, such as the Easter Bunny Express, the Fireworks Express, and the Santa Claus Express, add to the railroad's appeal. Throughout its history, the railroad has faced challenges, including financial difficulties and natural disasters. Despite these setbacks, the Wilmington & Western has persevered, continuing to provide a valuable link to the past and a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. The railroad was added to the National Register of Historic Places as a national historic district in 1980.

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