All aboard!! in Lancaster County

Lancaster County is proud to be the home of several great destinations for train enthusiasts, as well as anyone interested in the majestic history of America.  Visit the historic Strasburg Railroad in…you guessed it…Strasburg.  The oldest continuing railroad in the western hemisphere, the Strasburg was founded in 1832 to transport goods traveling from the Susquehanna River destined for Philadelphia.  You can ride along the original 4 ½ mile route from Strasburg to Leaman Place Junction (a whistle-stop where Abraham Lincoln spoke in 1861) and take in the scenery of the Amish and Mennonite farmlands. 

While at the station in Strasburg, simply walk across the street to find the Pennsylvania Railroad Museum, home to more than 100 historic locomotives and railway cars dating from the inception of the Pennsylvania Railroad.  It also serves as a restoration center for locomotives so you can watch the artisans restoring these historic behemoths.

As you walk out of the museum, look 500 feet down the road to your left and find the Choo Choo Barn. This model railroad display has been growing exponentially since 1945.  Come to tour the layout and find a myriad of hidden gems unique to Lancaster County or check it out at Christmastime and see how the layout become a festive holiday wonderland.

But wait…there’s more!  A mile away is the National Toy Train Museum.  This one-of-a-kind destination is the headquarters of the Train Collectors Association.  You can check out the incredible displays of model trains every shape and size.  Some of the pieces date from the 1800s, giving you a sense of the historic fascination of toy trains. 

Spend a few days here and if you are not already a train aficionado, you will be before you leave!