Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Explore a vast collection of historic locomotives and railcars, offering an immersive journey through American railroading history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast collection of historic locomotives and railcars, offering an immersive journey through American railroading history.
"Spectacular museum! Has a large, varied, collection of locomotives across more than a century of rail travel."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the extensive collection! :athletic_shoe:
Check for Special Events
The museum hosts themed days and volunteer demonstrations that enhance the experience. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Locomotive Collection
Main Hall
Marvel at a vast array of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives spanning over a century of rail history.
Interactive Model Train Displays
Exhibition Halls
Engage with intricate model railroads and see cool automation, a hit for all ages.
Walk-Through Railcars
Various Exhibits
Step inside historic passenger and freight cars, some featuring short documentaries.
Roundhouse Views
Exterior (check availability)
See the impressive roundhouse, a key feature for railfan enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Train Enthusiasts
Plan for Plenty of Walking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the extensive collection! :athletic_shoe:
Check for Special Events
The museum hosts themed days and volunteer demonstrations that enhance the experience. :calendar:
Stroller Accessible
Great for families with young children, with elevators and stroller-friendly paths. :baby_chick:
Combine with Strasburg Railroad
It's right across the street from the Strasburg Railroad for a full day of train fun! :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the extensive collection! :athletic_shoe:
Check for Special Events
The museum hosts themed days and volunteer demonstrations that enhance the experience. :calendar:
Stroller Accessible
Great for families with young children, with elevators and stroller-friendly paths. :baby_chick:
Combine with Strasburg Railroad
It's right across the street from the Strasburg Railroad for a full day of train fun! :train2:
Air-Conditioned Comfort
Stay cool even on hot days, as the entire museum is air-conditioned. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania for its spectacular and extensive collection of locomotives and railcars, offering great value for the admission price. Many highlight the engaging exhibits, including interactive model trains and walk-through cars, making it a hit for families and train enthusiasts alike. While some note the potential for extensive walking and occasional outdoor exhibit closures, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit in the area.
"Wow. What a great place to bring your entire family to able to enjoy and learn everything trains. So much volunteer work that has gone into this museum. They have a wonderful clean selection of exhibits on display to experience. You can really appreciate the amount of work that they have achieved for everyone's enjoyment. Thank you"
Don Corbett
"Spectacular museum! Has a large, varied, collection of locomotives across more than a century of rail travel across the region. The facility was one of the most impressive ones I've been to, standing alongside the B&O roundhouse and the gilded halls of York. It is quite large and requires extensive walking, but with how much there is to see your legs can hardly register any tire. Cannot recommend enough!"
RCH
"This is a really interesting railroad museum that gives a fairly detailed look at the development of railroads in the United States. The museum isn’t very big—it mainly consists of a large main hall and a smaller room you reach by walking across an elevated walkway.
Inside, you’ll find a variety of trains and railcars. Honestly, I’m not sure if they were full-scale models or actual trains, but they felt very real. Some of the cars are open for visitors to walk through, and a few have short documentaries playing inside for learning and reference.
The main hall also has smaller rooms with old typewriters and displays that recreate scenes from the past. There’s also a little house with some paintings and miniature trains. Everything was clean and quiet, and the staff were friendly.
Best of all—there was air conditioning throughout the entire museum, which was amazing considering how hot it was that day!
All in all, it was a fun visit, and if someone asked me for a recommendation in the area, I’d definitely suggest this place!"
wei san
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Strasburg, PA, easily accessible by car. It's situated right across from the Strasburg Railroad, making it a convenient stop for a day of train-themed activities. Parking is generally available on-site.
Yes, the museum is stroller accessible and features an elevator, making it easy for families with young children to navigate the exhibits.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination, especially when combined with a ride on the Strasburg Railroad or visits to nearby attractions in Lancaster County. +1
Most visitors drive to Strasburg. If coming from further afield, you might consider flying into Harrisburg (MDT) or Philadelphia (PHL) and renting a car.
Yes, the Strasburg Railroad is directly across the street, offering scenic train rides. The National Toy Train Museum is also nearby in Ronks, PA. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, often around $10 per adult, offering great value for the amount of exhibits and time you can spend there. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets upon arrival. On a weekday, you might experience a short wait in line, but it's generally a smooth process.
While specific free days aren't always advertised, some TikTok videos mention finding ways to visit for free, so it's worth checking their social media or website for promotions.
Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the museum's official website before your visit. They are generally open daily during peak seasons.
Booking in advance is usually not required, especially for weekday visits. However, for special events or busy weekends, it might be a good idea to secure your tickets early.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The museum boasts a vast collection of historic locomotives, railcars, and railway artifacts. You can explore exhibits on the history of rail travel, see model train displays, and even walk through some of the vintage cars.
Yes, it's a train-lover's paradise for kids! They'll be fascinated by the large engines and interactive model train displays. It's also stroller accessible.
Several of the railcars are open for visitors to explore inside, offering a unique perspective on historical train travel. Some even feature short documentaries.
The museum features engaging model train displays with cool automation that children (and adults!) will enjoy.
Give yourself ample time, at least 3 hours, to fully explore the extensive collection. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a gift shop that may offer some snacks, but dedicated dining facilities are limited. Many visitors opt to eat at nearby restaurants in Strasburg or pack their own picnic.
Yes, Strasburg offers several dining options, including Casey Jones' Restaurant at Paradise Station, which is a popular choice for those visiting the area.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check the museum's policy on outside food and beverages. Picnic areas might be available.
Strasburg and the surrounding Lancaster County area offer a range of dining, from casual eateries to restaurants serving local Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
Information on an internal cafe is scarce, but the gift shop often carries refreshments. It's best to confirm directly with the museum or plan to dine nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. It's a fantastic spot for capturing stunning images of historic locomotives and exhibits.
The main hall with its impressive collection of engines, the detailed model train displays, and the exterior of the roundhouse (when accessible) offer great photo opportunities. +1
Video recording for personal use is typically permitted. Many visitors share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
While personal photography is usually fine, professional or commercial photography might require special permission. Always check with museum staff if you're unsure.
Visitors often capture close-ups of engine details, wide shots of the collection, and candid moments of families enjoying the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider pairing your visit with a ride on the Strasburg Railroad next door for a full day of locomotive fun. The museum's affordability and air-conditioned environment also make it a comfortable choice for a family outing, especially on a hot or rainy day.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for potential promotions or consider visiting on a weekday to avoid any potential weekend crowds. Packing your own snacks or planning a picnic lunch can further help manage costs, though there are dining options nearby in Strasburg.
🚂 Dedicated Railfans
While the outdoor yard's accessibility can vary due to construction, the indoor exhibits, including the roundhouse views and detailed model railroads, provide ample material for enthusiasts. Visiting during special events or when volunteers are active can offer deeper insights and unique perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collection: A Railfan's Dream
+1Many of the railcars are open for exploration, allowing you to step back in time and imagine life on the rails. Some of these cars even feature short documentaries that provide context and fascinating insights into their operational history. The museum also showcases a variety of railway artifacts, from antique clocks to tools, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of rail travel.
For those who appreciate the intricate details, the model train displays are a major draw. These detailed dioramas often feature cool automation and are a testament to the passion of model railroaders. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting this rich history is evident in the care taken with each exhibit, ensuring an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
Family Fun and Accessibility
Beyond accessibility, the museum provides interactive elements that keep children entertained. The model train displays are a particular hit, with their intricate details and moving parts. Some visitors have even noted the presence of a running 'Thomas the Tank Engine' display, which is sure to delight younger train enthusiasts.
Combining a visit to the museum with a ride on the adjacent Strasburg Railroad creates a perfect day out for train-loving families. This proximity allows for a seamless transition between exploring static exhibits and experiencing a scenic train journey, maximizing the fun and minimizing travel time between activities.
The Role of Volunteers and Interns
These volunteers are instrumental in maintaining the exhibits, sharing historical information with visitors, and even assisting with restoration projects. Their commitment ensures that the stories and the machinery of America's railroading past are kept alive and accessible. The museum actively welcomes junior volunteers starting at age 14, providing valuable experience and a chance to connect with history.
In addition to long-term volunteers, the museum also hosts interns, such as the Keystone Summer Interns, who contribute significantly during their tenure. These interns play a vital role in various museum operations, gaining practical experience in a unique historical setting. Their work is crucial for the day-to-day functioning and special projects undertaken by the museum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit