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Pumpkin Express sign

The Pumpkin Express returns!

Saturdays and Sundays

October 10th – October 31th, 2026

Join the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Association in our annual Pumpkin Express Halloween Celebration! Come ride our decorated vintage railcars through the San Diego County back country as fall descends upon Campo, CA. The Pumpkin Express winds down the hill through some of the most scenic parts of the historic San Diego and Arizona Railway.

After the train returns to the museum grounds, passengers head to the Display Building where children and their parents enjoy decorating pumpkins from our outdoor pumpkin patch and viewing our collection of Halloween scenes and haunted train cars. Pumpkins are included in the purchase of every Toddler and Child ticket on the Pumpkin Express! Additional pumpkins may be purchased for $10 each. Passengers of all ages are encouraged to arrive in costume. Don’t miss out on this truly unique opportunity!

For our ADULTS-ONLY spooktacular experience, check out the Sip & Scare Sunset Special, Saturdays in October at 6:30pm! 

Note: All trains depart from the Campo Depot located at 750 Depot St., Campo, CA 91906.

Trains depart Saturdays and Sundays, October 4 – October 26, 2025, at 10:30 am, 1 pm, and 2:30 pm.

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Seating Choices 

Classic Coach

Passengers riding in Coach Class enjoy the Pumpkin Express from one of our restored 1920s vintage commuter cars. These seats are most numerous and lowest priced, but still offer an amazing experience for your Halloween Adventure

First Class

Those looking for a premium travel experience may want to consider purchasing First Class train tickets on our Santa Fe lounge car #1509. The SF #1509 offers a complimentary snack bar with attendant, parlor or dining-style seating, and a premium atmosphere. Those riding in Santa Fe lounge car #1509 may also step out onto the open air platform as the Pumpkin Express creeps its way through the countryside.  

Fares for the Pumpkin Express 2026

Coach Class Tickets

Infants – Free (under 1 riding in an Adult’s lap)
Children – $18.95 (ages 1-17)
Adults – $24.94 (18+)
Members – $22.50 (w/ID)

First Class Tickets

Infants – Free (under 1 riding in an Adult’s lap)
Children – $33.95 (ages 1-17)
Adults – $39.94 (18+)
Members – $35.95 (w/ID)

Locomotive Cab Rides

All – $50.00 (ages 6+)
Only two cab ride spaces are available on each train. Please see the Locomotive Cab Rides page for more details.

Reservations

The Pumpkin Express is a popular event, and the best seats tend to sell out quickly.  We highly recommend you purchase your desired tickets for the Pumpkin Express in advance.  

Note: Online Ticket Sales close 36 hours before train departure. 

Subject to availability, limited quantities of tickets may be available for in-person purchase at Campo Depot.