While the Reading & Northern’s signature passenger routes may lead to Jim Thorpe, PA, 2024 will present several different options both old and new. The railroad will operate several special excursions this year from Reading Outer
Station to places such as Tamaqua and Minersville. These will be in addition to the classic weekly Reading to Jim Thorpe trips. One of the other long-standing passenger routes is from Reading Outer Station to Pottsville. Reading & Northern will once more continue the tradition of operating excursions to the historic city of Pottsville several times during the
spring and summer of 2024.
Pottsville has many unique attractions to call its own and is a great alternative to Jim Thorpe for passengers seeking a different adventure. The most famous of all of course is the Yuengling Brewery, which guests receive a free tour of as part of their ticket price. Jerry’s Classic Car Museum, another Pottsville favorite, offers discounted admission to all
excursion riders. The Schuylkill County Historical Society Museum follows suit, with discounted admission and a wealth of exhibits showcasing the rich history of the area. Passengers have five hours – more time than that given on a Jim Thorpe excursion – to explore the city. The city of Pottsville even provides a trolley to take visitors around to the
various attractions.
A new attraction for 2024 will be an outdoor farmer’s market which will greet passengers the moment they exit the train upon arrival in Pottsville. Last year on one of our summertime runs to Pottsville, passengers (not to mention the train crew) were pleasantly surprised by the sight of numerous local food and craft vendors who had set up shop in the
parking lot of Pottsville Union Station. Upon suggestion from that train’s crew, and working with the city of Pottsville, Reading & Northern has coordinated its 2024 excursions with the dates of this unique outdoor market.
Founder and co-owner of Pottsville Outdoor Markets, Jonathan Morris, said “Following a very successful 2023 market season, Pottsville Outdoor Markets is excited to be part of the 2024 train excursions scheduled to arrive in the city. We plan to have over 60 vendors at each of our markets including farmers, food trucks, crafts, and several others, including
several new small businesses which are joining us this year. The market is free admission, and we plan to have free parking available. We look forward to seeing everyone at the market!”
The train departs Reading Outer Station at 10:00am and operates nonstop to Pottsville, reaching the city in approximately one hour. Tickets for these fantastic excursions are reasonably priced at $39.00 each and are available now at www.rbmnrr-passenger.com or by phone at 610-562-2102.
-via Press Release