Adirondack Railroad Easter Bunny Express brings springtime magic to Central New York

Railroad photos courtesy Adirondack Railroad.

Spring arrives with a cheerful whistle in Central New York as the Adirondack Railroad Easter Bunny Express departs from Holland Patent Station, just west of the Adirondack Park. This family-friendly Easter event, operated by the Adirondack Railroad, offers a scenic round-trip train ride to Remsen Depot paired with festive activities designed for all ages.

Running April 3–4, this seasonal excursion blends Adirondack rail history with classic Easter traditions—making it one of the most charming ways to celebrate the holiday weekend near the Adirondacks.

A classic Adirondacks Easter experience on the rails.

There’s something timeless about a train ride in early spring. Snowmelt trickles through the woods, the air carries that in-between-season crispness, and the landscape begins its slow transition to green.

Passengers board at Holland Patent Station and travel along the base of the Adirondack Mountains toward Remsen Depot. The journey itself is part of the magic—offering views of a region that feels both rugged and quietly waking up after winter.

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What to expect at the Easter Bunny Express.

This 1.5-hour round trip is thoughtfully paced for families. The experience is scenic and celebratory.

Children can:

Hunt for Easter eggs around the historic depot
Meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny
Trade in collected eggs for a goody bag

Meanwhile, parents can take in the setting—an authentic piece of Adirondack rail history—while enjoying light concessions available onsite.

The train itself is climate-controlled, offering a comfortable ride regardless of early April’s unpredictable weather. Still, dressing warmly is encouraged—this is the Adirondacks, after all, where spring likes to keep you guessing.

Why this Adirondack Railroad event stands out.

The Easter Bunny Express isn’t just another holiday event—it’s a living connection to the region’s rail heritage.

Adirondack Railroad conductor — All aboard the Easter Bunny Express!

Operated by the Adirondack Railway Preservation Society, the railroad has spent decades restoring and expanding excursion service along the historic New York Central Adirondack Division. What began as a modest four-mile ride has grown into a beloved attraction carrying tens of thousands of passengers annually.

Today, the railroad links the Mohawk Valley to deeper Adirondack destinations, offering access to landscapes rarely seen by road. Events like this one highlight how that legacy continues—not just preserving history, but creating new traditions.

And that’s the real draw: this is the kind of experience that families return to year after year.

Who should attend this Central Adirondacks Easter event.

This event is ideal for:

Families with young children
Visitors planning an Adirondack Easter getaway
Train enthusiasts and history lovers
Anyone looking for a relaxed, memorable holiday activity

Its location near Utica makes it an easy add-on to a broader Adirondack itinerary—whether heading toward Old Forge, the Fulton Chain Lakes, or deeper into the Park.

Key event details.

Dates: Departures on April 3–4, 2026
Time: Departures begin at 12 pm on April 3; final trips conclude by 5:30 pm on April 4
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Location: Holland Patent Station to Remsen Depot
Tickets: Advance reservations required (no walk-ups)

Visitors should book early, as this event typically sells out.

For tickets and updates, visit the official Adirondack Railroad website.

Adirondack Railroad Easter Bunny — Here comes Peter Cottontail.

Make it part of your Adirondack spring tradition.

There are bigger Easter events. Flashier ones, too. But few match the simple charm of a train ride through the foothills of the Adirondacks, followed by an egg hunt at a historic depot.

It’s equal parts nostalgia and novelty—and exactly the kind of experience ADK Taste loves to spotlight.

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FAQ: Adirondack Railroad Easter Bunny Express

Where does the Easter Bunny Express depart from?
The train departs from Holland Patent Station in Central New York, just outside the Adirondack Park.

How long is the train ride?
The full experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including time at Remsen Depot.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Reservations are required, and walk-up tickets are not available.

What activities are included for kids?
Children can participate in an Easter egg hunt, meet the Easter Bunny, and receive a goody bag.

Is the train heated?
Yes, the train is climate-controlled, but guests should still dress for early spring conditions.

Is this event suitable for all ages?
Absolutely. It’s designed for families but enjoyable for anyone who appreciates Adirondack scenery and history.