PA Historic Places

Riding the Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster County

A collage of 5 photos showing scenes from the Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster County, PA.

If you’re looking for information about riding the Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster County, you’re in the right place!

A vintage steam locomotive, numbered 89, is displayed at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA. The train, marked as "Canadian National 89," features a black and silver exterior and is actively steaming, indicating it is operational. The engineer is visible in the cab, wearing a blue shirt. This scene is set against the backdrop of an old yellow train depot with a sign reading "Rutland 9194" on a nearby red freight car, highlighting the historical atmosphere of the railroad.

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, the Strasburg Railroad offers scenic sightseeing excursion trains pulled by majestic steam locomotives.

A classic steam locomotive, marked with the number 89, pulls a series of red passenger cars across the rural landscape of Lancaster County, PA. The train is depicted steaming along the tracks with a plume of white smoke, surrounded by vibrant green fields under a clear blue sky. In the background, traditional farm buildings and a farmhouse add a rustic touch to the picturesque scene at Strasburg Railroad.

Directions | Hours | Ticket Prices

The Strasburg Railroad is located at 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572.

Trains depart the station daily from April through mid-November, and on weekends December-March.

An old-fashioned train station with a red brick exterior and a green roof. The Strasburg Railroad sign is mounted above the entrance. A passenger train with a red locomotive and green and yellow carriages pulls away from the platform. There are trees and greenery in the background.

Check the Strasburg Railroads’ OFFICIAL WEBSITE for the specific hours of excursions, as these vary by day and season.

Interior view of a vintage passenger car at Strasburg Railroad, featuring rows of plush red seats aligned along a narrow aisle. The car's interior boasts classic wooden paneling, large windows, and ornate ceiling details in green, enhancing the historical ambiance. The bright, airy cabin is illuminated by natural light, providing a comfortable and nostalgic setting for passengers as they travel through the scenic landscapes of Lancaster, PA.

Ticket prices range from $24 for the Open Air Car up to $35 for the First Class Parlor Car.

A large sign mounted on the side of a red brick building. The sign is for the Strasburg Rail Road, America’s Oldest Shortline Railroad. It displays colorful images and text promoting the different ticket classes available for a 45-minute steam train ride through Amish farmlands. The text also mentions climate-controlled cars, uniformed attendants, and scenic views.

History of the Strasburg Railroad

Chartered in 1832, the Strasburg Railroad is celebrated as the oldest continuously operating standard-gauge line in the western hemisphere.

A blue and gold plaque mounted on a metal pole in front of a red and black steam locomotive. The plaque commemorates the Strasburg Railroad, the oldest operating railroad under its original charter in the United States. Text on the plaque describes the history of the railroad and its importance to the state’s rail transportation history.

This venerable institution not only remains an active participant in the railroad industry but also serves as the oldest public utility in Pennsylvania.

A red and black steam locomotive with yellow lettering pulls into the Strasburg Railroad station. The station is a grand building with a red brick exterior, arched windows, and a green roof. Passengers stand on the platform waiting to board the train. There are trees and greenery in the background.

Starting its journey in tourism with its first tourist excursion service in 1959, Strasburg Rail Road has since evolved into a premier attraction, drawing around 300,000 visitors annually.

A historic steam train, led by a locomotive expelling white steam, travels on the tracks of Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA. The train, including the passenger car "Marian," is depicted rounding a bend with vibrant green bushes in the foreground and a classic red water tower in the background. The scene captures a sunny day, with clear skies and the bustling station activity visible in the distance, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the heritage railroad.

What You’ll See at the Strasburg Railroad

Headquartered just outside the quaint town of Strasburg, the railroad provides a 45-minute round-trip excursion that immerses passengers in the picturesque landscapes of southeastern Lancaster County, covering 9 miles of vibrant farmland and timeless scenes reminiscent of an earlier era.

Expansive view of a farm landscape in Paradise, PA, seen from the Strasburg Railroad. The scene features green fields in the foreground, transitioning to plowed earth, and then to a complex of white farm buildings with two silos. The farm is nestled in a broad expanse of cultivated and pasture land, punctuated by patches of trees, under a partly cloudy sky, illustrating the quintessential rural beauty of Lancaster County.

The railroad’s fleet includes five operational steam locomotives, with several more in various restoration stages.

View from behind an ornate metal railing on an observation car at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA, focusing on the front of a steam locomotive numbered 89. The locomotive, actively releasing steam, features a prominent headlamp and Canadian flags, reflecting its heritage. The scene captures clear skies and a well-maintained station area with trees and parked cars in the background, showcasing a vibrant rural setting.

Among them, No. 89 holds a special place, having commenced its service in 1973 and often chosen today for pulling smaller, more intimate trains.

Dynamic front view of Canadian National locomotive number 89 releasing a thick plume of black smoke into the sky at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA. This close-up captures the powerful engine from the perspective of standing directly on its cowcatcher, looking forward along the tracks. The detailed features of the locomotive, including its headlamp and bell, are prominently displayed against a backdrop of leafy trees and a clear blue sky, emphasizing the energy and historical significance of this vintage steam train.

The trains themselves are historical artifacts, comprising the nation’s largest fleet of historic wooden passenger coaches, each meticulously restored to reflect its original splendor.

Elegant observation car at the Strasburg Railroad, Lancaster PA, featuring an open rear platform with ornate wrought iron railing and a rounded roof. The car is painted in a deep red with gold trim and large rounded windows, designed to offer passengers expansive views of the surrounding countryside. The railway track and station environment are visible in the background, emphasizing the historic and charming setting of this heritage railroad.

The Strasburg Rail Road offers more than just rides.

Photo taken at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It shows a white building with a red roof in the background. In the foreground, there is a black metal sign with white lettering that says “General Store” and an arrow pointing towards the white building. To the right of the sign is a wooden post with a brown and yellow informational board with a map on it. There are also trees and a red brick building with a black awning in the shot.

The expansive grounds host a restaurant, playground, and several gift shops.

Interior view of a gift shop at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA, displaying a colorful array of t-shirts. The t-shirts come in various designs, including solid colors, tie-dye patterns, and different logos related to the Strasburg Railroad. The shirts are organized neatly on hangers across several racks, set against a backdrop of a black and white checkered floor, creating a vibrant and inviting shopping area for visitors.

During the summer tourist season, you can also catch free vaudeville acts while waiting for your train to depart.

Two performers on the Town Square Stage at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA, engaging in a vaudeville show. The woman on the left, dressed in a golden, floral outfit with a matching hat, is conversing animatedly with the woman on the right, who is wearing a light blue, patterned dress. Behind them, a marquee lists show times and current performers. The stage setup, complete with theatrical lighting and a black backdrop, adds to the lively outdoor performance atmosphere.

Throughout the year, the railroad organizes a myriad of themed excursions that cater to diverse interests.

A children's playground designed to resemble a rustic train yard at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA. The area features several wooden train-themed structures, including a cabin and tunnels, set on a bed of wood chips. The playground is shaded by trees and enclosed by a wooden fence, creating a safe and engaging environment for children to play in. In the background, the landscape stretches out to a scenic view of rolling hills and lush trees under a clear blue sky.

Families with young children can enjoy outings like “Thomas the Tank Engine” events, while seasonal offerings such as the “Santa’s Paradise Express” provide festive joy.

Frontal view of Canadian National locomotive number 89 at Strasburg Railroad, emitting a stream of smoke against a clear blue sky. Positioned on the tracks in a rural setting, the vintage black steam engine features a prominent headlamp and Canadian flag detail. The background showcases a pastoral landscape with wooden farm structures and recreational areas, highlighting the charming and historic atmosphere of Lancaster County, PA.

These themed rides, combined with the regular excursions, highlight the railroad’s dedication to creating memorable experiences that educate and entertain.

A vibrant rural scene near Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster County, PA, showcasing a tractor spraying a freshly tilled field beside a set of railroad tracks that stretch into the distance. The tractor is equipped with a large sprayer, actively working the rich, brown soil under a clear blue sky. The scene is framed by lush greenery and a gravel road parallel to the tracks, highlighting the agricultural landscape typical of the area.

Visitors are treated not only to a train ride but to an immersive historical experience.

Close-up view of Canadian National locomotive number 89 at Strasburg Railroad, positioned next to "Groff's" station sign surrounded by lush greenery. The black steam engine emits a cloud of white steam against a backdrop of mature trees and a clear blue sky, emphasizing its vintage charm and operational status. The reflection in the headlamp and the detailed engine components provide a dynamic perspective of this historic train in motion within the scenic Lancaster, PA countryside.

As the locomotive steams along, conductors clad in period attire share tales of the railroad’s storied past, insights into steam travel mechanics, and anecdotes about the surrounding Amish culture.

A farm scene along the tracks of the Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster County, PA.

This narrative enriches the journey, making each trip a dynamic learning experience.

Black steam train on a train track at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Final Thoughts

The Strasburg Rail Road is not merely a means to traverse the beautiful Lancaster County; it is a portal to America’s rich railroading heritage.

Powerful close-up view of Canadian National locomotive number 89 at Strasburg Railroad in Lancaster, PA. The black steam engine, adorned with the number 89 and a Canadian flag, is actively emitting a dense plume of dark smoke from its stack. The detailed view highlights the gleaming headlamp and intricate mechanical components of the locomotive, set against a background of lush green trees and a clear sky, capturing the dynamic energy of this vintage train in operation.

It offers a tangible connection to the steam era, significant for anyone interested in engineering, history, and transportation.

View from the side of a moving train at Strasburg Railroad, overlooking a scenic route in Lancaster County, PA. The landscape features a green grassy area alongside a dried field, with a sign labeled "Farm Tour at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm" visible across the road. In the distance, a smoke plume rises from another train amidst a backdrop of rolling hills and farm structures, capturing the essence of rural Pennsylvania. The train cars curve gently, leading the eye through the tranquil pastoral setting.

This makes it an indispensable destination for families, train enthusiasts, and history buffs, looking to explore a pivotal piece of American history.

Nearby Attractions

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg was established to chronicle the history of railroading in the Keystone State, through the preservation of rolling stock, artifacts, and archives from various railroad companies.

This collage from the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg, Lancaster County, showcases a variety of exhibits that highlight the rich history and technological evolution of rail transport. The first image features a weathered black steam locomotive displayed outdoors, illustrating the grandeur and complexity of early 20th-century railway engineering. The second image highlights a bright blue Conrail diesel locomotive, a representation of modern advancements in rail technology, housed within the spacious interior of the museum. The third image captures a vibrant yellow Fruit Growers Express refrigerated boxcar accompanied by a vintage black truck, demonstrating the historical logistics of perishable goods transportation. The final image displays the museum’s entrance sign, set against the backdrop of the museum's contemporary architecture and inviting green landscape, providing visitors with directions and accessibility information. Together, these images encapsulate the diverse attractions and educational opportunities available at the museum, celebrating the legacy of railroads in Pennsylvania. — Scenes from the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.

The Red Caboose Motel near Strasburg features over 40 vintage cabooses and train cars that have been repurposed into retro motel rooms.

A collage of four photos taken at the Red Caboose Motel in Lancaster County, PA. The top left image shows a red caboose labeled "Southern" with a red SUV parked in front of it. The top right image features two rows of colorful cabooses, including blue, yellow, and red ones, lined up on either side of a driveway. The bottom left image depicts the interior of a cozy motel room with a bed, table, and chair. The bottom right image showcases a sign for the Red Caboose Motel with a yellow caboose in the background. The Red Caboose Motel includes over 40 cabooses and train cars converted into retro motel rooms. — Scenes from the Red Caboose Motel.

The Choo Choo Barn in Strasburg is a 1,700-square-foot train display featuring 22 operating trains and over 150 hand-built animated figures, making it one of the largest model railroad layouts in Pennsylvania!

A collage of four photos taken at the Choo Choo Barn in Lancaster County, PA. The top left image shows a wide-angle view of the extensive model train display featuring a circus tent, carousel, and various detailed miniature scenes. The top right image captures the display at night with the lights dimmed, creating a magical ambiance with illuminated buildings and train tracks. The bottom left image depicts a snowy mountain landscape with a moving gondola lift, detailed buildings, and vehicles on a winding road. The bottom right image shows the exterior of the Choo Choo Barn building, complete with a colorful children's train display and picnic tables, set against a scenic countryside backdrop. — Scenes from the Choo Choo Barn in Strasburg.

The National Toy Train Museum near Strasburg houses one of the world’s largest publicly exhibited collections of toy trains and accessories.

A collage of four photos taken at the National Toy Train Museum in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows the museum's entrance, featuring a glass building with an "OPEN" flag and a sign indicating various museum sections. The top right image captures a vibrant model train layout with an orange passenger train, a central station, and various surrounding accessories. The bottom left image displays a detailed model train layout with mountainous terrain, bridges, and multiple trains running on tracks, along with shelves filled with model trains in the background. The bottom right image showcases an "American Flyer" exhibit, highlighting a variety of model trains and accessories on a realistic train layout.

The New Hope Railroad offers enchanting sightseeing journeys through Bucks County aboard meticulously restored historic trains, blending scenic beauty with a rich heritage of rail travel.

A collage of four photos showcasing the New Hope Railroad in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, including: the historic Witch's Hat train station with a maroon locomotive beside it under a blue sky; the train winding through a lush forested area; passengers seated inside an open-air observation car with wooden benches; and a bright red "Welcome to the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad" sign at the station entrance, inviting visitors to "ride the rails back in time."

The East Broad Top Railroad in Huntingdon County offers steam-powered passenger excursions, shop tours, and visits to the “roundhouse”.

A collage of four photos showcasing the East Broad Top Railroad in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. The first image captures a steam locomotive with billowing smoke at sunset. The second shows a conductor aboard the locomotive. The third depicts the train amidst a winter landscape with white smoke against the hills. The last image is of an open passenger car traveling through a lush green forest.

Since 2015, the Everett Railroad has been offering captivating steam train excursions from its nostalgic station in Hollidaysburg, Blair County.

This collage features four images from a steam train excursion on the Everett Railroad in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. The top left photo shows a steam locomotive emitting plumes of smoke at the station, with the "HOLLIDAYSBURG" sign visible. The top right image displays a bright red caboose with "EVERETT RAILROAD 91517" on the side. The bottom left picture captures a line of passenger cars at the station, decorated with Christmas greenery and a festive tree in the foreground. The bottom right photo shows the train passing under a bridge, with steam enveloping the cars, creating a dynamic scene of movement and activity.

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe, PA is consistently ranked as one of the best sightseeing trains in the northeastern United States.

Fall foliage around the train station in Jim Thorpe, PA.

The Northern Central Railway offers sightseeing excursions through the picturesque landscape of southern York County, using both a replica 1860s steam locomotive and a 1959 GP9 diesel engine to pull the trains.

Collage of four photos taken at the Northern Central Railway of York. Top left: Two steam locomotives, Number 17 and Number 85, are on display in front of the New Freedom Station, with steam billowing into the blue sky. Top right: Number 85 steam locomotive pulls a yellow passenger car and red caboose along the tracks, surrounded by green trees. Bottom left: View from the locomotive showing the train tracks and the adjacent trail, with smoke trailing behind. Bottom right: People standing on the gondola car platform near the E.K. Krebs building, a historic red and white building, as they enjoy the scenic ride.

Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton is both a museum and an active railyard, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of steam-powered locomotives in America.

A four-image collage from Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, PA. Upper left shows a vintage steam engine number 26 inside a roundhouse with steam rising. Upper right features two locomotives, including engine 790, displayed on a turntable with a modern building in the background. Lower left is the Union Pacific 'Big Boy' steam engine number 4012, a large black locomotive parked outside. Lower right is the National Park Service round emblem displayed at the historic site.

Find even more great spots to explore in Lancaster County and all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

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