Kempton, PA
Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad
At a Glance
Source checked 2026-08-11- TypeHeritage railroad & tourist attraction
- LocationKempton, PA
- Rating4.8 ★256 Google reviews
- UpcomingFri, Aug 21
About Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad
Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad is an all-volunteer tourist railroad in northern Berks County. Its 40-minute round trips follow Ontelaunee Creek through farmland, forest, and the old-time communities of Trexler and Wanamakers. Regular Sunday rides run seasonally, while date-specific events add wine-and-cheese, apple-picking, pumpkin, dog-friendly, and Christmas experiences.
Photo gallery
See Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad
7 photos
Select any photo to view it larger with its creator, source, and license.
Ways to Ride
Choose the visit that fits your groupBest first visit
Regular Sunday train rides
The core 40-minute round trip follows Ontelaunee Creek through farms, forest, Trexler, and Wanamakers; most regular tickets include all-day riding.
See official details →Themed trips and holidays
Seasonal special events
The official 2026 catalog includes wine-and-cheese, harvest, apple-picking, pumpkin, Bow Wow, and Christmas programs on specific dates.
See official details →Before or after the ride
Kempton station grounds
Allow time for the gift shop, food concession, model railroad display, picnic area, relocated Reading Company buildings, and equipment displayed at the railroad's base.
See official details →Groups and private outings
Private charter
Groups can ask the railroad about a private charter rather than relying on a standard public departure.
See official details →Upcoming Events
Complete official date check
2026 special-event calendar
These dates come directly from the operator. USA Train Rides adds trip-planning details only when they are backed by reviewed sources.
Plan Your Visit
- SeasonRegular Sunday rides run from the first Sunday in May through the first Sunday in November; special events use their own dates
- Trip Length40-minute round trip for regular rides
- ArriveArrive at least 15 minutes before departure; trains leave promptly and cannot wait for late passengers
- ParkingPlenty of free parking is available at the Kempton base
- AccessibilityHistoric coaches are not ADA accessible; contact the railroad before booking so staff can discuss special needs and possible accommodations
- RestroomsThere are no restrooms aboard the train; plan to use the station facilities before departure
- Good ForFamilies, vintage-rail fans, photographers, seasonal events, and relaxed countryside outings
Find the Depot
The Trains
A typical WK&S train includes one or two coaches, an open observation car, and a Reading caboose pulled by one of three vintage center-cab diesel locomotives. The operator also owns steam locomotives with long-term restoration plans, so visitors should not assume steam power; the railroad reserves the right to change locomotives and coaches as conditions require.
History
Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern opened for business as a heritage railroad on the former Reading Company branch.
See full history
The railroad operates on three and a half miles of the former Schuylkill & Lehigh branch of the Reading Company. WK&S opened for business in 1963 and preserves equipment acquired from regional railroads including the Reading Company, Lackawanna, and Lehigh & New England. Its Kempton base combines relocated Reading Company station buildings with the ticket office, gift shop, food concession, model railroad display, picnic area, and equipment displays.
Around the Depot
Begin on the WK&S grounds with the relocated Reading Company station buildings, equipment displays, model railroad, gift shop, food concession, and picnic area. For a substantial second anchor, drive to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary for visitor exhibits, an accessible overlook option, and longer ridge trails; its internal guide carries current logistics and rights-documented images.
Getting There & Staying Nearby
Optional trip extras from our travel partners.
Rent a Car
Most heritage railroads sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.
Compare rentals on Discover Cars →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.
Tours & Activities near Kempton
Tours
Guided tours, day trips, and things to do around the area, bookable in advance through Viator.
Browse nearby tours →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern train depart?
Trains depart from the WK&S station at 42 Community Center Dr, Kempton, Pennsylvania 19529. This is the visitor address, not the railroad's post-office-box mailing address.
How long is the regular train ride?
Regular excursions are 40-minute round trips. Special events may use a different format, so check the selected event before booking.
When should I arrive?
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to collect or buy tickets and board. The operator says trains leave promptly and cannot be held for late arrivals.
Is the train wheelchair accessible?
The operator says its historic coaches are not ADA accessible. Call 610-756-6469 before booking to discuss special needs and whether staff can accommodate your situation.
Are there restrooms on the train?
No. Restrooms are not available aboard the historic train, so use station facilities before departure.
Where should I buy tickets?
Use the official WK&S website and linked FareHarbor booking page. Regular-trip tickets may also be available at Kempton station, while some special events require advance reservations.
Sources & Verification
Source-checked August 11, 2026. This free profile has not yet been claimed or confirmed by the operator.