National Toy Train Museum
Explore a captivating world of miniature trains, from vintage classics to modern marvels, with interactive displays for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
National Toy Train Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a captivating world of miniature trains, from vintage classics to modern marvels, with interactive displays for all ages.
"A perfect collection of all-scale trains with great interactive displays, highly recommended for any age train enthusiast."
🚗 Parking Tip
Consider parking at the Ronks TA Express and Ubering to save on parking hassles.
🗣️ Talking Tour
Take advantage of the self-guided talking tour for rich history and insights. [^Review]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Standard Gauge Display
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at the impressive Standard Gauge layouts, featuring iconic brands like Lionel. See intricate scenes come to life!
Interactive Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Engage with hands-on displays that let you control elements or watch day-night cycles on miniature towns. Fun for all ages!
Tinplate Layouts
Main Exhibition Hall
Admire the beautiful tinplate standard gauge layouts, showcasing classic toy trains in detailed dioramas. A nostalgic treat!
Amusement Park Display
Main Exhibition Hall
Discover a unique display featuring an amusement park scene, complete with miniature rides and trains. A whimsical touch!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Train Enthusiasts
Interactive Fun for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tip
Consider parking at the Ronks TA Express and Ubering to save on parking hassles.
🗣️ Talking Tour
Take advantage of the self-guided talking tour for rich history and insights. [^Review]
💡 Day/Night Cycles
Don't miss displays that cycle through day and night, lighting up miniature buildings. [^Review]
🚂 Kid-Friendly Fun
Perfect for kids who love trains! Many interactive elements will keep them engaged.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tip
Consider parking at the Ronks TA Express and Ubering to save on parking hassles.
🗣️ Talking Tour
Take advantage of the self-guided talking tour for rich history and insights. [^Review]
💡 Day/Night Cycles
Don't miss displays that cycle through day and night, lighting up miniature buildings. [^Review]
🚂 Kid-Friendly Fun
Perfect for kids who love trains! Many interactive elements will keep them engaged.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning shots of intricate layouts and classic trains. Great for train enthusiasts!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the National Toy Train Museum's extensive and well-maintained collection of toy trains, particularly the detailed Standard Gauge and Tinplate displays. The interactive elements are a hit with all ages, and the informative talking tour adds depth to the experience. It's considered a must-visit for train enthusiasts and a delightful outing for families.
"What a perfect collection of all-scale trains. Great interactive displays. Good place to bring kids. Friendly staff and very informative. They have a self-guided talking tour that gives you a lot of history. The displays were well-lit, but what I loved even more was that a few of the displays cycled through day and night, and all the buildings lit up, very cool. Definitely would recommend it to any age train enthusiast."
Shawn & Kevin Donohue
"This museum is a great place offering a collection of different model train manufacturers throughout the decades...
A must stop for a model train enthusiast regardless of whether you love American Flyer... Lionel... Marx... or another lesser known manufacturer...
It was fun to explore... so glad we came..."
Rhonda Brackett
"Cool museum if you like toy trains. Plenty of toy trains in display and in action. Family friendly. Definitely a must see if you’re a toy train enthusiast or a kid that loves trains/ toy trains."
Xyril Bacsa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Toy Train Museum is located in Ronks, Pennsylvania, near Strasburg. Many visitors find it convenient to park at the Ronks TA Express and use ride-sharing services to reach the museum. It's a popular stop for those exploring the Amish Country area.
While specific parking details can vary, some visitors suggest parking at nearby facilities like the Ronks TA Express and then taking an Uber. It's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for the most current parking information.
Absolutely! The National Toy Train Museum is often visited in conjunction with the Strasburg Railroad, as they are in the same general area. +1 It makes for a fantastic day of train-themed fun.
Ronks, PA, is best accessed by car. If you're coming from further afield, you might fly into Harrisburg (MDT) or Philadelphia (PHL) and then rent a car. The scenic drive through Lancaster County is part of the experience.
The museum generally aims to be accessible. Many of the displays are at a height suitable for viewing from a wheelchair, and the pathways are typically wide enough. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility questions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission for adults is typically around $8-$9, making it an affordable outing. [^Review] Prices for children or seniors may vary, so it's best to check the official museum website for the most up-to-date pricing information.
The museum's hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit, as they are not always open every day.
While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it's a good idea, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to ensure entry and potentially save time. Check the museum's website for online ticketing options.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or group rates. It's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking the museum's website for any advertised promotions or special offers. [^Review]
Reciprocal membership benefits are not commonly offered for smaller, specialized museums like this. It's best to assume you'll need to purchase a separate ticket for entry. [^Review]
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse collection of toy trains from various manufacturers and eras, including Standard Gauge and Tinplate layouts. 
Yes! The museum boasts several interactive displays that allow visitors to engage with the trains and scenes, making it fun for all ages. [^Review]
It's a fantastic place for kids, especially those who love trains! The interactive exhibits and vast collection of toy trains are sure to captivate young enthusiasts.
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the museum. [^Review] This allows ample time to appreciate the displays and engage with the interactive elements.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask staff if flash photography is permitted, especially around delicate displays.
📸 📸 Photography
The Standard Gauge and Tinplate layouts offer incredible detail for photography.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to avoid flash photography, especially near delicate models or during interactive demonstrations, to prevent damage and distraction. Always check for signs or ask staff.
The amusement park display and the detailed dioramas within the Standard Gauge and Tinplate layouts are highly photogenic. The way some displays transition from day to night also creates unique photographic moments. [^Review]
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for capturing the illuminated displays. A macro lens can be useful for capturing the intricate details of the miniature trains and scenery.
Video recording for personal use is typically permitted. Many TikTok and Instagram creators have shared engaging videos of the museum's displays, showcasing the movement and detail.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking advantage of the self-guided talking tour to add an educational layer to the fun. [^Review] The museum is generally easy to navigate with strollers, and the exhibits are often at a child-friendly height. It's a perfect spot for a few hours of imaginative play and discovery, especially if your little ones are captivated by the magic of trains.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts & Collectors
+1 The museum meticulously displays these vintage models in elaborate, detailed layouts that are a feast for the eyes. Pay close attention to the amusement park display and the day-night cycles on some of the dioramas, which add a unique dimension to the viewing experience.
Day-Trippers from Lancaster
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Strasburg Railroad or explore the charming Amish Country scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Standard Gauge and Tinplate
+1 The Tinplate era, preceding Standard Gauge, features beautifully lithographed metal trains that evoke a strong sense of nostalgia. Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and detail of these displays. The museum features extensive layouts that showcase not just the trains themselves, but also meticulously crafted miniature worlds. These include towns, landscapes, and even amusement parks, all brought to life with moving parts and intricate scenery.
Many of these displays are not static; they feature interactive elements and day-night cycles, where the miniature towns light up as dusk falls. [^Review] This dynamic presentation adds an extra layer of wonder, making the experience captivating for both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. It's this combination of historical significance and engaging presentation that makes the Standard Gauge and Tinplate collections a must-see at the museum.
A Family-Friendly Train Adventure
Beyond the interactive elements, the museum offers a self-guided talking tour that provides historical context in an accessible way. [^Review] This can be a great way for parents to share interesting facts with their children without overwhelming them. The museum's layout is generally easy to navigate, and the displays are often at a height that is comfortable for children to view.
Many reviewers highlight the museum as a must-see for train enthusiasts of any age. [^Review] Whether your child is just starting to discover the magic of toy trains or is already a budding collector, the National Toy Train Museum offers something special. It's a place where the joy of trains is celebrated, making it an ideal family outing in the heart of Pennsylvania's Amish Country.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit