scenic railroad trips pennsylvania

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Pennsylvania Scenic Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: October 13, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

With such a diverse history, Pennsylvania scenic train rides offer everything imaginable. The state features one of the most prolific collection of railroad attractions throughout the country with numerous museums and rides available.

• One can enjoy fine dining on the Tioga Central Railroad.
• Walk among exquisitely preserved rolling stock at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania Railroad.
• Take a trip back in time to the 19th century aboard the Strasburg Railroad (the second most popular scenic train ride in the country, witnessing more than 400,000 riders annually).

Pennsylvania also boasts a vast collection of operational steam locomotives at such places as Steamtown in Scranton and the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad in New Hope.  

Finally, you can catch trolley rides at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, Electric City Trolley Museum, and the Rockhill Trolley Museum.  

Please note!   This guide information covers Pennsylvania scenic train rides related to vacation/tourism destinations-only.  If you are interested in long-distance rail travel please visit  Amtrak's website , our nation's passenger rail carrier.

State Rail History

Pennsylvania's rail history dates back to the Baltimore & Ohio's chartering (America's first common-carrier).  In 1827 the tiny Mauch Chunk Switchback Gravity Railroad was built to haul coal from a mine near Mauch Chunk (Jim Thorpe). 

According to an in-depth article  Trains Magazine  published in its January, 2007 issue entitled, " Great Railroading: State-By-State ," this operation is also believed to be America's first tourist railroad. 

After coal movements ceased in 1872, the Central Railroad of New Jersey (CNJ) acquired the railroad in 1874 and subsequently leased it to brothers Theodore and H. L. Mumford who converted the line into a tourist attraction. 

It proved quite popular and carried on under this arrangement for more than a half-century.  On May 24, 1929 the CNJ sold the property where it became the stand-alone Mauch Chunk Switchback Railway Company. 

Alas, this enterprise proved short-lived; a victim of the Great Depression, it closed in 1932. 

For Pennsylvania, its involvement with modern railroads began with the construction of a canal (officially known as the Pennsylvania Canal) on February 25, 1826 to connect Harrisburg with Pittsburgh.

A few years later plans were finalized for an extension to Philadelphia. 

In an interesting design, engineers came up with an interlinking railroad/canal system, collectively known as the Main Line of Public Works. 

While successful, officials quickly realized an all-rail route was the most efficient.  It could operate at greater speeds and in all types of weather. 

Fearful their port of Philadelphia would fall behind rivals New York, Charleston, and Baltimore, they decided on just such an arrangement and, according to Mike Schafer and Brian Solomon's book, " Pennsylvania Railroad ," chartered the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1846. 

The PRR became the most powerful and successful railroad in America, carrying an impeccable credit rating and unimaginable cash reserves.   

By the early 20th century it operated more than 10,000 route miles, track mileage totaling 28,000, and served 11 states. 

It confidently (and arrogantly) proclaimed itself, " The Standard Railroad Of The World ."  But the PRR was not Pennsylvania's only railroad. 

Several other widely recognized names also served it some fashion including the Baltimore & Ohio, New York Central, Lehigh Valley, Central Railroad of New Jersey, Reading Railroad, Lehigh & New England, Erie Railroad, and Delaware, Lackawanna & Western.

Pennsylvania's importance to the industry even transcended railroads:

• The country's largest (and nearly oldest) steam locomotive manufacturer was located in Eddystone (Baldwin Locomotive Works).
• General Electric's plant in Erie has produced locomotives since the early 20th century.
• J. G. Brill Company out-shopped streetcar and interurban equipment at its Philadelphia facility from 1869 until 1954 (then under the name, ACF-Brill Motors Company).

Finally, don't miss the Keystone State's numerous engineering landmarks; Tunkhannock Viaduct (Nicholson), Starrucca Viaduct (Lanesboro), remains of the Kinzua Viaduct (McKean County), Horseshoe Curve (near Altoona), and the 48-arch Rockville Bridge spanning the Susquehanna River. 

In his book, " The Routledge Historical Atlas Of The American Railroads ," historian John F. Stover points out Pennsylvania's rail mileage peaked at 11,551 in 1920, ranking 3rd among all 50 states. 

Unfortunately, for many reasons, ranging from market loss to government regulation, a staggering 55.5% of this rail infrastructure has since been abandoned (6,421 miles). 

The Association of American Railroads notes that today, just 5,130 miles remain in service. 

• Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

The Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is located in Gallitzin, Pennsylvania, highlighting the first railroad built through the Allegheny Mountains in central Pennsylvania.

• Allentown & Auburn Railroad

This short line began in 2015 and operates just over 4 miles of a former Reading Railroad branch between Kutztown and an interchange with Norfolk Southern at Topton.

The railroad also offers public excursions, utilizing a restored, early SW locomotive that was originally built for the Philadelphia, Bethlehem & New England in March, 1937.  The trips are hosted with three cabooses, one coach, and an open flatcar. 

• Bellefonte Historical Railroad

This organization tells the history of railroading in Bellefonte and Centre County, Pennsylvania. They are housed inside the restored Bald Eagle Valley/Pennsylvania Railroad's brick depot, which originally opened on February 11, 1889. 

The organization also hosts several public excursions throughout the year using a collection of equipment on-hand. 

• Catawissa Railroad Company

The Catawissa Railroad Company, located in Catawissa, is actually a collection of restored cabooses painted in their original company colors, some of which can be rented for overnight  stays. Also be sure to see the town's preserved Catawissa Railroad (a component of the Reading Railroad) depot. 

• Connellsville Canteen Museum

This museum, a non-profit organization operated by the Fayette County Cultural Trust, is located in the once-busy railroad town of Connellsville. 

Their overall mission is to preserve the history of Fayette County's World War II soldiers and veterans, and the sacrifices they made during that conflict. 

In addition, they also feature a very nice model train layout known as the Great Indian Creek Valley Railroad, designed and built by Harry Clark. 

If you're hungry be sure and stop by their café for either breakfast or lunch.  To learn more, plan a visit, and see all of their displays please visit their website.

• Train Rides In PA At A Glance

As mentioned above, while the state's involvement with railroads, even in their most rudimentary form, can be traced back to the 1820's, it was the Pennsylvania Railroad's (PRR) opening of its main line from Harrisburg to Pittsburgh in late 1852 that truly brought Pennsylvania into the modern age. 

The PRR would eventually grow into a Goliath system as the most powerful railroad in the country with more than 10,000 miles stretching from New York to Chicago with its trackage was heavily concentrated in its home state. 

In January, 2007 Trains Magazine published a nearly cover-to-cover piece on all the 50 states' histories with railroads.  It was entitled  " Great Railroading: State-By-State ." 

There was considerable coverage given to Pennsylvania, which spoke about its far-reaching operations from magnificent steam locomotives grinding up Horseshoe Curve to small 3-foot, narrow-gauge systems. 

The state was also home to substantial streetcar and interurban operations.  

As a whole, scenic train rides in PA do a fine job of highlighting the memory of these transportation companies.

In few other states can you ride behind, or peruse, rail equipment which includes steam locomotives, diesels, and trolleys. 

No other attraction provides quite the level of authenticity as the Strasburg Railroad .  It features a fine collection of preserved steam locomotives which take passengers on a 4.5-mile journey through beautiful Lancaster County. 

Trips are enjoyed within restored, wooden cars which range from simple coach class to a full-service dining experience. 

The charm is only furthered by Pennsylvania's popular Amish Country setting.  If you're after more than just a train, however, consider visiting one of the premier museums in the country right nearby, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania just outside of Lancaster. 

There is also the Steamtown National Historic in Scranton which maintains an impressive collection of steam locomotives.  In all, train rides in PA offer a little of everything and definitely are worth considering!

• The Choo Choo Barn ("Traintown")

Located in Boyertown in Lancaster County this attraction is very near the Strasburg Railroad.  It features a 1,700-foot train layout display for visitors to enjoy.  This is certainly worth a visit if you are planning a trip to ride the Strasburg!

• Colebrookdale Railroad

A relatively new tourist attraction, the Colebrookdale Railroad, also known as the  Secret Valley Line , began hosting trips in 2014, operating 8.6 miles between Boyertown and Pottstown.

The trackage was originally built by a company carrying the same name, later operated by the Reading Railroad. For more information please visit their website. 

• East Broad Top Railroad

The East Broad Top Railroad, chartered in 1856, was built as a coal hauler, via a line that connected Mt. Union with Woodvale. 

After freight operations ended it became a tourist attraction for decades, blossoming into one of Pennsylvania's most popular and successful train rides.  Alas, these trips were discontinued in 2011. 

The railroad is currently under a major restoration by new owners East Broad Top Foundation, which began in February, 2020.  Limited excursions resumed in 2021 with a full schedule hopefully available in 2022.

The EBT is a National Historic Landmark.  Long terms plans include reopening as much of the original 33-mile system as possible, much of which has been out of service since 1956.

• Electric City Trolley Museum

Not all Pennsylvania train rides are pulled by traditional steam or diesel locomotives.  The Electric City Trolley Museum is based in Lackawanna County and aims to preserve eastern Pennsylvania's interurban heritage.

In doing so it also hosts excursions, using restored trolley cars, along a section of the Lackawanna & Wyoming Valley's (The " Laurel Line ") third-rail interurban right-of-way.  Its operating season begins each May. 

• Everett Railroad

The Everett Railroad offers both freight and passenger services on trackage in the Hollidaysburg area. 

Public excursions run from Hollidaysburg to Brookes Mill on a corridor which was originally owned by the Pennsylvania Railroad. 

Freight services operate on two segments; from Brooks Mill to Sproul, and the other, disconnected segment from Roaring Spring to Curryville via Martinsburg.

The railroad's name is derived from a short line by the same name which operated from 1954 to 1982.  The present company has been in service since 1984. 

Its operating schedule runs from March through October while holiday specials last through December.  The Everett is popular for utilizing an operational steam locomotive, Middletown & New Jersey 2-6-0 #11, built by American Locomotive in 1920.

• Franklin Institute Science Museum

This large, well-known museum, located in Philadelphia, has a wing dedicated to railroad history including a handful of rolling stock.

One particular noteworthy piece is Baldwin Locomotive Works' 4-10-2 #60000, historically significant as the 60,000th locomotive the company manufactured.

It was meant to turn the tide in favor of steam power over diesel, featuring many new technologies at the time, but ultimately was unsuccessful in this endeavor. 

• Greenville Railroad Park & Museum

This museum, located in Greenville, features a collection of rolling stock including Union Railroad 0-10-2 #604, a 1936 product of Baldwin. The museum is open from May through October and admission is free. 

• Harris Switch Tower Museum

This small museum, based in Harrisburg, is located within the former PRR interlocking tower built in 1929. The facility is owned and operated by the Harrisburg Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society.

Inside you can view historic artifacts and displays as well as see how an interlocking tower functioned. It is also a good location to watch passing trains! 

• Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark

This famous feat of engineering, located near Altoona, has been a marvel to witness since it first opened on February 15, 1854.

A small museum/train watching area located near the base of the shoe first appeared in 1879 and has steadily grown ever since. To learn more please visit the Railroaders Memorial Museum's website . 

• Lake Shore Railway Museum

This museum is located inside the restored Lake Shore & Michigan Southern (NYC) depot at North East. The building itself houses several displays while outside the facility is a collection of rolling stock to peruse. The museum is open from April through October. 

• Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is based in Jim Thorpe, operating train rides from the restored former Lehigh Valley railroad station.

The train itself is operated by the Reading & Northern, a regional freight railroad, covering about 16 miles (round-trip) following the Lehigh River, utilizing trackage once owned by both the LV and Jersey Central. 

• Ma & Pa Railroad Heritage Village

This attraction is located on 31 acres in York and is home to a collection of historic buildings as well as the role short line Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad (the "Ma & Pa") played in the region. They also host short excursion rides. For more information please visit their website. 

• Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad

The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad is a freight carrier which connects its namesake cities. Along with freight operations the M&H also offers train rides over 11 miles of its system, hosted from May through October.

They also offer a number of special events throughout the year.  Most trips are pulled by an operational steam locomotive, former Canadian National 2-6-0 #91! 

• National Toy Train Museum

This facility is located in Strasburg near the Strasburg Railroad. The museum, open since 1977, features several large, operating train layouts in a variety of scales ranging from HO to S gauge. It is open on select days throughout the year. To learn more please visit their website. 

• New Hope Railroad

The New Hope Railroad is a very popular short line/tourist attraction located in east-central Pennsylvania. Today the NHRR operates roughly 16.5 miles with a connection to CSX Transportation at Ivyland.

While the railroad does maintain freight service (which pays the bills!) it is best known for its steam locomotives and vintage railroad cars, carrying thousands of visitors annually. 

• Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

The Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad, based in Titusville, operates train rides on about 14 miles of track using a diesel locomotive for power. Along with their standard excursions the OC&T also hosts murder mystery dinner trains throughout the year. 

• Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, based in Washington, preserves the history of interurbans in western Pennsylvania. In doing so they operate a short stretch of track using vintage trolley cars between May and August. 

• Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train

The Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train, located in Ashland, serves a dual purpose of preserving Pennsylvania's rich mining heritage and offering guests a chance to experience what it was like to ride behind steam-powered trains.  A historic 0-4-0T steam locomotive pulls retrofitted mine cars on about a 1-mile section of track.

• Portage Station Museum

This museum is located inside the Pennsylvania Railroad's restored depot at Portage. It is operated by the Portage Area Historical Society and houses artifacts as well as an operating model layout. The facility is also not far from the Gallitzin Tunnels and Horseshoe Curve. 

• Railroad Museum Of Pennsylvania

Located in East Strasburg next to the popular Strasburg Railroad, the state's official railroad museum features an impressive collection of rolling stock and noted locomotives, housed both indoors and outside.

There are also numerous displays and exhibits to see. Most of the pieces relate to the state's rich history with trains. This one is well worth the visit! 

• Railroaders Memorial Museum

Located in section of the PRR's expansive repair and maintenance shops, locomotive construction facility, and test department in Altoona, the Railroaders Memorial Museum vividly highlights how railroads operated years ago. The complex is also not far from the fabled Horseshoe Curve. 

• Reading Railroad Heritage Museum

This museum is operated by the Reading Company Technical & Historical Society, which does a fine job keeping alive the memory of the fabled Reading Railroad. It is located in Hamburg and features a collection of displays and rolling stock. They are open most weekends throughout the year. 

• Rockhill Trolley Museum

The Rockhill Trolley Museum, based in Rockhill Furnace, is the state's oldest such museum which preserves the region's interurban history. In doing so they also operate a short stretch of trackage using one of their many operable trolley cars. 

• Steam Into History

This attraction is relatively new, founded in June, 2013.  It currently hosts excursions on 9.2 miles of the former Pennsylvania Railroad's Northern Central Railway, which was once an important corridor linking Baltimore and Harrisburg. 

The operation is set in the Civil War period and its star attraction is 4-4-0 #17, the York , built by the Kloke Locomotive Works in 2013.  To learn more please visit their website .

• Steamtown National Historic Site

The Steamtown National Historic Site is a railroad museum complex operated by the National Park Service in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Today, they feature a wide collection of historic equipment in their restored roundhouse and also offer guests short steam and diesel rides. 

Stourbridge Line

Located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, the Stourbridge Line is named after the  Stourbridge Lion , an early 0-4-0 steam locomotive intended to be used by the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company once it had arrived from England in 1829. 

Ultimately, the locomotive was never used in service.  The rail line now hosting scenic train rides, running 25 miles from Honesdale to Lackawaxen, later became the Hawley Branch of the Erie Railroad.

Today's trips are hosted by short line freight carrier Delaware Lackawaxen & Stourbridge Railroad.  Please visit their website to learn more about regular excursions, special events, and more.

• Strasburg Railroad

The most popular of all Pennsylvania train rides, hosting more than 400,000 riders annually, the Strasburg Railroad is located in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Amish community. 

It is also the country’s oldest railroad still in service dating back to 1832. It handles both freight and passengers but is also an operating history book featuring operating steam locomotives with restored, period passenger cars (dating to the 1800s).

They provide guests everything from dinner train service to an open bar car for adults.  The company also acts as an outside contractor, performing maintenance and repair work on cars and locomotives.

• Tioga Central Railroad (Permanently Closed)

The Tioga Central Railroad is another of Pennsylvania's most popular tourist train rides, operating on trackage which once belonged to the New York Central.

Today, excursions operate on a section of the line, which travels through the beautiful rolling hills of north-central Pennsylvania, owned by freight carrier Wellsboro & Corning Railroad. Along with standard trips the TCRR also hosts numerous seasonal and special trains during their operating season. 

• Tunnel Park & Museum

This museum is located near the famed Gallitzin Tunnels, another Pennsylvania Railroad engineering feat. Aside from the displays to peruse check out the restored PRR Class N5C caboose or simply watch the passing action of Norfolk Southern freight trains. To learn more please visit their website. 

• Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad

The Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad is based in Kempton, in eastern Pennsylvania, operating a unique blend of steam and diesel locomotives. Along with their standard excursions the WK&S also offers chartered train rides.

• West Chester Railroad

The West Chester Railroad offers train rides found very close to the greater Philadelphia region (about 36 miles from the city's downtown area). 

As a result, this tourist attraction is quite popular. It uses track once owned by the Pennsylvania Railroad, as remnants of the PRR remain everywhere here, including overhead as this particular corridor was once electrified and the catenary poles still stand today.

The 90-minute train ride offers three stops at historic stations preserved and restored along the route (Westtown, Cheney, and Glen Mills).

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

© Copyright 2007-2024 American-Rails.com. All written content, photos, and videos copyright American-Rails.com (unless otherwise noted).

• Destinations

12 Best Pennsylvania Train Day Trips

Colebrookdale railroad company, everett railroad company, lehigh gorge scenic railway, middletown & hummelstown railroad.

• Complete List & Map

Boyertown Rail Yard Third Street, Boyertown, PA 19512, Phone: 610-367-0200 Toll Free: 866-289-4021

244 Loop Road Hollidaysburg, PA 16648, 814-696-3877

1 Susquehanna St. Jim Thorpe, PA 18229, Phone: 570-325-8485

136 Brown Street, Middletown, PA 17057, Phone: 717-944-4435

The New Hope & Ivyland Railroad

The New Hope & Ivyland Railroad , New Hope and Ivyland Railroad, 32 West Bridge Street, New Hope, PA 18938, Phone: 215-862-2332

Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

409 S Perry St, Titusville, PA 16354, Phone: 814-676-1733

Steam into History - The Northern Central Railway

2 West Main Street, New Freedom, PA 17349, Phone: 717-942-2370

Steamtown National Historic Site

Steamtown National Historic Site , 150 South Washington Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503-2018, Phone: 570-340-5200

Stewartstown Railroad

Stewartstown Railroad , 21 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Stewartstown, PA 17363, Phone: 717-746-8123

Strasburg Railroad

Strasburg Railroad , 301 Gap Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, Phone: 866-725-9666

The Hawk Mountain Line

42 Community Center Dr. Kempton, PA 19529, Phone: 610-756-6469

The Stourbridge Line

812 Main Street, Honesdale, PA 18431, Phone: 570-470-2697

West Chester Railroad

West Chester Railroad , 230 E. Market St. West Chester, PA 19382, Phone: 610-430-2233

• 1. Colebrookdale Railroad Company
• 2. Everett Railroad Company
• 3. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
• 4. Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad
• 5. The New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
• 6. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad
• 7. Steam into History - The Northern Central Railway
• 8. Steamtown National Historic Site
• 9. Stewartstown Railroad
• 10. Strasburg Railroad
• 11. The Hawk Mountain Line
• 12. The Stourbridge Line
• 13. West Chester Railroad

Last Updated By VI on May 31, 2024 in Pennsylvania Day Trips

More Pennsylvania Getaways:

Resources: VisitErie , Hershey, PA , Discover Lancaster

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10 Best Things to Do in Lewisburg, PA

23 Best Pennsylvania Day Trips for Couples

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Railroads & Locomotives Tourist Railroad Profiles Pennsylvania tourist railroads you must visit

Pennsylvania tourist railroads you must visit

Here are our must-see tourist railroads, museums and displays across the Keystone State.

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Pennsylvania is rich in railroading heritage. There are dozens of museums, tourist railroads and railroad sites in the Keystone State, many in close proximity to one another. From the famous to the hidden gems, here are Pennsylvania tourist railroads you must visit from the Trains Magazine Tourist Trains Guidebook !

Pennsylvania Tourist Railroads and Museums

Southcentral pennsylvania.

East Broad Top Railroad — 421 Meadow Street, Rockhill Furnace The East Broad Top is a time capsule with its yard, buildings and equipment, mostly intact since its original closure in 1956. Walking tours of the shop facilities are offered on days when trains are operating. Of course, no visit to the East Broad Top is complete without a ride on a portion of the original railroad. The restored 2-8-2 steam locomotive No. 16 heading the train is always the icing on the cake!

Everett Railroad — 244 Pullman Drive, Hollidaysburg Scenic train rides through Pennsylvania farmlands and along the banks of the Juniata River are offered out of Hollidaysburg. A variety of excursions include ice cream trains, holiday rides and adult-themed trips, all of which can take an hour or longer. Steam and diesels pull a growing fleet of vintage open-window passenger cars. However, it’s the railroad’s 1920 Alco-Cooke 2-6-0 No. 11 that provides an authentic experience straight out of the 1940s.

Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark — 2400 Veterans Memorial Highway, Altoona An iconic landmark in railroad engineering, what else can we say about Horseshoe Curve? While the former Pennsylvania Railroad main line still sees service today from Norfolk Southern, traffic may be sparse throughout the week; more trains seem to traverse the area on Fridays and Saturdays. After doing some sightseeing at the curve, don’t forget to take in more Altoona railroading lore with the nearby Railroading Memorial Museum downtown.

Northern Central Railway — 117 North Front Street, New Freedom This railroad operates over 10 miles of the previous incarnation that Abraham Lincoln traveled on while en route to deliver his famous Gettysburg Address. His funeral train traversed the line two years later. The 1860s time period is recreated with replica coaches and 4-4-0 steam locomotive No. 17, which was constructed in 2013. Different excursions include destinations to Seitzland, Glen Rock, Hanover Junction, and Seven Valleys. The original Hanover Junction station, completed in 1852 and where Lincoln disembarked for Gettysburg, is a must visit!

Southeast Pennsylvania

New Hope Railroad — 32 West Bridge Street, New Hope Steam- and diesel-powered excursions are offered along the former branch line of the Reading Company. The star is Baldwin 2-8-0 No. 40, which is scheduled to operate on select dates during the summer, fall and holiday seasons. From 45-minute train rides to longer excursions, with multiple classes to choose from, there’s something for everyone when visiting the New Hope Railroad.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania — 300 Gap Road, Strasburg As its name implies, this museum is home to about 100 locomotives and rolling stock from the Pennsylvania Railroad and other railroads that served the state. The George M. Hart Rolling Stock Hall is the centerpiece of the campus with its early 20th-century, glass-roofed train shed housing 50 pieces of railroad equipment. Of course, the popular Strasburg Rail Road is just across the road. More on that in a bit!

Reading and Northern Passenger Department — 3501 Pottsville Pike, Reading Mainline passenger excursions serve the dual purpose of goodwill and promoting freight on the Reading, Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad. Steam and diesel locomotives crisscross the regional system carrying thousands of people throughout the year, including the Reading-Jim Thorpe Iron Horse Ramble all-day excursion, which is pulled by T-1 4-8-4 No. 2102. The most popular excursion is the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway out of Jim Thorpe which travels into the Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Strasburg Rail Road — 301 Gap Road, Ronks As America’s oldest continuously operating line with an authentic steam-era setting, it’s no wonder Strasburg is proclaimed as the cream of the crop in tourist railroad circles. Historic locomotives haul an impressive fleet of wooden passenger cars along the 9-mile, 45-minute round trip through Amish farmland. Special events take place year-round with extra offerings, including hostling and shop tours, riding the Cranky Cars, and miniature steam train rides pulled by a restored Cagney locomotive.

Southwest Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Trolley Museum — 1 Museum Road, Washington As the oldest trolley museum in the state, the facility is home to a collection of nearly 50 restored and operational electric equipment. Several are still used today along the 4-mile round trip over the tracks of the original interurban route to Pittsburgh. At the museum’s Richfol Shelter, climb aboard for unlimited trolley rides as part of the admission!

Northeast Pennsylvania

Steamtown National Historic Site — 350 Cliff Street, Scranton Located at the shop complex of the former Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, Steamtown is a massive museum full of railroading history and technology. The 90-foot turntable is the centerpiece of a roundhouse housing exhibits and historic locomotives on display. Of course, there’s more to this 66-acre park with outdoor exhibits, shop tours, and train rides behind steam and diesel locomotives.

Other Pennsylvania railroad sites to consider

During your visit to Pennsylvania, consider also visiting these railroad sites:

• Allegheny Portage Railroad — Gallitzin
• Allentown & Auburn Railroad — Kutztown
• Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society — Bellefonte
• Colebrookdale Railroad – Boyertown
• Electric City Trolley Museum – Scranton
• Franklin Institute — Philadelphia
• Friends of the Stewartstown Railroad — Stewartstown
• Gallitzin Tunnels Park & Museum — Gallitzin
• Greenville Railroad Park and Museum – Greenville
• Harris Tower Museum – Harrisburg
• Lake Shore Railway Historical Society and Museum – North East
• Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway – Jim Thorpe
• Ligonier Valley Rail Road Museum – Ligonier
• Ma & Pa Railroad Heritage Village – Airville
• Middletown and Hummelstown Railroad – Middleton
• Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad – Titusville
• Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train – Ashland
• Portage Station Museum – Portage
• Railroaders Memorial Museum – Altoona
• Reading Railroad Heritage Museum – Hamburg
• Rockhill Trolley Museum – Rockhill
• The Stourbridge Line – Honesdale
• Wanamaker Kempton and Southern Railroad – Kempton
• West Chester Railroad – West Chester
• White Deer Railroad Museum – Columbia
• Williams Grove Railroad – Mechanicsburg

Learn more about tourist railroads in North America.

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COLEBROOKDALE RAILROAD

Scenic train rides in boyertown, pa.

An excursion on the Colebrookdale Railroad is your ticket to create memories that last. Explore our railroad station, themed train rides, or book reservations for your groups special event. All aboard!

Upcoming Events

We are happy to announce that all veterans, active military, fire, police, and EMS personnel can ride for free on any excursion until Labor Day.

We would like to offer one free ticket for our veterans, active service members, police, firefighters, and EMS until Labor Day on any excursion to thank them for their service to our country and express our gratitude. You will need to present your ID when picking up your ticket at the station.

To redeem your free ticket, use promo code “WETHANKYOU” at checkout.

Scenic Train Rides in a land lost in time.

A Unique Adventure into a Forgotten Land!

Once the province of pioneers and patriots, the Colebrookdale is your ticket to a verdant land lost in time. Board one of our meticulously restored century-old rail cars for a two-hour train ride into one of the most scenic and historic regions in the northeast.

Railbikes in the Secret Valley

All aboard our rail biking adventure into the Secret Valley!

Bring your friends for a leisurely, pedal-powered adventure into the tall forests of the Secret Valley, where you will cross bridges, chase creeks, and take in all the wonder the picturesque valley has to offer. Keep an open eye out for wildlife, including white-tailed deer, great blue heron, and bald eagles! Explore our rock cuts that were hand-dug by Civil War veterans in the late 1860s. Those rock cuts, which contain magnetic rock, spawned the first iron industry in the United States, provided George Washington with cannonballs, and later brought Thomas Edison to the Secret Valley for an invention that was not as successful as the light bulb.

Engineer for a Day

If you are at least 18 years of age, here is your opportunity to drive our Colebrookdale Railroad diesel locomotive!

With your hand on the throttle, your eyes on the rail and the adrenaline in your veins, experience the excitement and exhilaration first hand! Be the “engineer”!

Gift certificates are also available; please contact us for more information.

Please note, the locomotive cab is not ADA accessible. This excursion is only for those 18 years old and older.

Travel in Style

Step Back in Time: Experience the Nostalgic Charm of Riding the Colebrookdale Railroad

A ride on the Colebrookdale is an enchanting experience that transports passengers to a bygone era and one becomes captivated by the luxury and elegance. As you board the train, you are awe-induced by the meticulously restored passenger cars. Everything provides a sense of nostalgia and refinement and replicates the “golden age” of railroading. Whether enjoying a meal in our dining cars on select excursions, sipping a complimentary beverage in our first-class cars, or enjoying a snack off our A La Carte menu in our coach-class cars, it is not a journey to forget. The rhythm of the rails provides a tranquil experience while looking at the beautiful countryside. Riding on the Colebrookdale is a peaceful journey that will leave a lasting impression.

The redevelopment of the historic central terminal area in the heart of Boyertown has been a critical component of the Colebrookdale Railroad community and economic development project since its inception. The future of the railroad and its catalytic impact on southeastern Pennsylvania turns on the successful development of the terminal’s freight and passenger capacity.

Our Passengers Love Us ★★★★★

Autumn Train Ride!

This was amazing ! I highly recommend. The service, the views and the Train itself is second to none. High class . Will do again.

Birthday Outing!

We went to celebrate our adult son's birthday. The trains were beautifully restored and decorated for the holidays. Service was friendly and timely. We were greeted by train staff warmly when entering.

Great Ride on the Colebrookdale Railroad!

Fantastic experience! So reasonable, too. This is my second time taking a trip on the Colebrookdale Railroad. I rode in November and enjoyed it so much I decided to take another ride on New Year’s Eve day. Different car but equally enjoyable experience! So relaxing and informative! I’ll be be back!

Magical Train Ride Experience!

My husband surprised me with first class tickets on Santa’s Polar Bear Express this year. It was the Best gift ever!! The train is beautiful, the service great and Santa was perfect! I highly recommend a trip!

Wonderful Holiday Train Trip!

Wonderful holiday experience with grandchildren. The entire staff very happy in all their “roles”- from servers, to Conductor to Santa!

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Pennsylvania’s 12 Most Scenic Fall Train Rides

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Fall Travel
• Pennsylvania
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• United States

Are you looking for a low-key way to enjoy autumn’s vibrant colors and get a gorgeous view of fall foliage in Pennsylvania? Think about taking a fall train ride to enjoy the spectacular color-changing leaves.

Pennsylvania’s rail lines played an enormous part in the history of the state, dating back to the early 1800s, long before the Civil War and the Industrial Revolution. Trains were part of the drive of the nation into a new frontier. Railroads in the keystone state have a rich past, phenomenal scenery, and today provide a calming and stress-free ride for the mature traveler to enjoy.

Train travel is slow travel, giving you time to relax, look out the window, and enjoy the spectacular view. There is no better time for a train ride than in the fall, when mother nature puts on a magnificent show with the foliage changing to vivid colors that stand out against the blue sky backdrop.

Let’s look at a few scenic train rides that provide stunning leaf-peeping opportunities.

1. East Broad Top Railroad (EBT)

Considered by The Smithsonian to be one of the best-preserved examples of 19th-century railroad and industrial complexes in the U.S., the East Broad Top Railroad (EBT) is tucked away in rural Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania. The EBT is a 150-year-old narrow-gauge line that runs through rolling hills, forests, pristine farmland, and endless mountains with steam engines and comfortable vintage passenger cars.

One-hour train rides in enclosed or open-air passenger cars, or even a genuine caboose, over a 9-mile round-trip from their historic station to Colgate Grove and back is available year-round. Fall foliage excursions and special events are a great way to enjoy the fall season.

2. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

Located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers tours on a vintage steam coach built in the early 1900s. The train carries tourists across the Lehigh River over wonderful antique bridges, then into the Glen Onoko Falls nature preserve, where they can see the many waterfalls and beautiful scenery along the way, before routing to Lehigh Gorge State Park, which features amazing wildlife, mountains, beautiful scenery, and high cliffs. Local historians narrate the ride during the trip, educating the riders on the area’s history, the railway, and the Lehigh Gorge.

This ride is breathtaking in the fall when the leaves take on a colorful glow.

3. The New Hope Railroad

Neighboring Philadelphia is New Hope, Pennsylvania, home to The New Hope Railroad . This fun and exciting railway is located along the popular Delaware River, which visitors can explore and learn about during train rides. The antique trains run on historic tracks built-in 1891 by the North-East Pennsylvania Railroad.

Visitors will enjoy the story of the railway’s history, the beautiful scenery, and the life of early Americans during the steam engine era from an area expert. The train passes through scenic countryside and historic sites in Bucks County in a beautifully restored railroad car. The one and a half hour trip takes you on a 14-mile excursion over new and old bridges, along a network of streams, and through the valley surrounding the town of New Hope, Pennsylvania.

They have many special occasion rides in the fall, “No Hope After Dark” Halloween Festival, a 2-hour Fall Excursion, and Speakeasy Excursions.

4. Oil Creek And Titusville Railroad

This antique railway, called the OC&T , offers passengers and tourists the opportunity to ride some very old trains, learn about the famous past of Oil Creek Valley’s events and people, and adventure out into the countryside to explore beautiful views and historical landmarks in and around Titusville, Pennsylvania’s main train station and town. The train ride takes around three hours. 

The Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad hosts fall foliage tours every year, and the leaves along the hills are magnificent. Their fall rides run until the middle of October.If you want to make it an overnight “train” trip, you can book a room at the Caboose Motel . You can sleep in a caboose and then enjoy the morning trains as they leave the station.

5. Northern Central Railway

When you board the William H. Simpson No. 17 steam locomotive, which is a complete reproduction of the train that carried President Abraham Lincoln to Gettysburg to deliver his famous speech, you are plunged into history. The Northern Central Railway has three different excursions to choose from, and all are round trips.

They also have a large variety of special events such as the “Wine and Cheese Express” and “PA Cowboy Weekend.”

6. Strasburg Rail Road

Still holding the record as the oldest continuously operating railroad in the western hemisphere, the Strasburg Rail Road dates back to 1832. Riding the trains in Strasburg are just about as close as anyone can come to walking back into the early 1800s for a train ride. There are five steam engines and 19 passenger cars on the Strasburg line, including the first-class car, the dining car, and the President’s Car. The view is phenomenal from all the different cars.

You get to ride the train to Paradise, Pennsylvania, and back on the same track. You will enjoy the Amish countryside, and while it is a beautiful ride any time of year, the colors of the fall foliage just add to the splendor.

Sleep in a caboose at the Red Caboose Motel near the Strasburg Rail Road to keep the “train” experience going. The train runs right past the motel.

Strasburg Rail Road provided free admission to enjoy their activities. The Red Caboose Motel provided free lodging. All opinions remain my own.

7. Hawk Mountain Line

There is much more to this railroad than just a train and some tracks. The station is an all-volunteer operation. It is often referred to as the WK&S, short for Wanamaker, Kempton, and Southern. The Hawk Mountain Line takes you through some beautiful countryside to enjoy the rolling hills and farmland, the vividly colored leaves, while you just sit back and relax because of its rural location. After your train ride, you can enjoy the gift shop, concession stands, and a small museum full of old railroad equipment and objects dating back to the early 1800s.

The Hawk Mountain Line runs from early May through the first weekend in November.

8. Stourbridge Line

The Delaware Lackawaxen and Stourbridge Railroad Company, known as DL&S , offers seasonal excursions from Honesdale, Pennsylvania, on the Stourbridge Line. Tourists learn the history of the old trains as they ride through the picturesque scenery of the Gorge and Valley of the Lackawaxen River, heading to Lackawaxen and back on more than 25 miles of track. They offer a variety of excursions and special events. 

The region’s experts and volunteers are always willing to share the past of the railroad and the city of Honesdale, and the details of how the trains were used to construct the city.

9. West Chester Railroad

The West Chester Railroad Heritage Association runs the 150-year-old railroad for tourists to enjoy. Located in West Chester, this historical railroad runs along the beautiful Chester Creek and continues to Glen Mills, where it doubles back to complete a 90-minute train trip. West Chester Station (formerly Market Street Station) is the main loading hub for this antique train.

10. Everett Railroad Company

Steam-powered trains may be an ancient transportation mode, but they are very much alive at the Everett Railroad Company . In addition to the trains, the Everett railyard offers all sorts of great activities, including viewing artifacts from the steam engine era. They provide excursions from one small town to another, and people get to enjoy the fall foliage during autumn.

The railroad started as a freight company in 1860 but has provided many tourism opportunities since then. The Everett Railroad Company trains operate from Hollidaysburg, Brookes Mills, and Roaring Springs. Tickets are easy to reserve. Train rides are available any time of the year, but rides during leaf-peeping season provide a spectacular view.

11. Middletown And Hummelstown Railroad

Visitors embark on the main tour on the Middletown and Hummelstown Railroad . In Middletown, Pennsylvania, passengers can then board the Delaware, a 1920s vintage train, the Lackawant, or the Western. After boarding the train at the station, built in 1891, the entire journey along 11 miles of track passes Swatara Creek and several miles of beautiful countryside. It is narrated by a historian who presents the history of the railway and its trains, as well as the history of the city.

12. Amtrak Pennsylvanian

Amtrak trains run all over the nation, but the Pennsylvanian Train that runs between Harrisburg and Pittsburgh covers some of the most scenic territory you will ever view. To top it off, you get to enjoy some fantastic sights and history. You will travel by train around the famous Horseshoe Curve near Altoona, Pennsylvania.

Horseshoe Curve was an international feat when built. It was known as one of the eight engineering marvels of the world.

When traveling in the fall, you will also enjoy the Allegheny Mountains decked out in mother nature’s color palette. Plus, you will see Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, the place where the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers converge.

Riding an excursion train should be on your Pennsylvania fall bucket-list. In addition to providing an insight into the past, Pennsylvania’s historic railroads offer a rare opportunity to see the magic of fall while riding aboard a piece of American history.

Planning a trip to Pennsylvania? Robin has you covered:

• 10 Pennsylvania Towns That Feel Like You’re In A Hallmark Christmas Movie
• How To Spend An Amazing Weekend In Bucks County, Pennsylvania
• 15 Fantastic Things To Do In The Beautiful Poconos
• 4 Quaint Towns In Eastern Pennsylvania You Must Visit

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

5 Incredible Pennsylvania Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Beth Price-Williams

A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.

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We all have those moments when we just want to escape. That might compel us to head to Google and search, “scenic train rides near me” or “train tours near me.” After all, there’s no better way to relax than by hitting the rails. If you’re ready for a mid-week break or a little impromptu adventure, you’re definitely in the right state. Now, all you need to do is decide which of these five train trips in Pennsylvania appeals to your sense of adventure the most. Ready to hit the rails? All aboard!

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We have so many ways to see Pennsylvania, but by train might be the most relaxing, don’t you think? What other train trips in Pennsylvania would you recommend? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And for more railroad adventures, you’ll definitely want to check out this train-themed trip through Pennsylvania .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Serious locomotive lovers will be delighted to learn about Red Caboose , at this train restaurant in Pennsylvania that belongs on everyone’s bucket list. The brightly colored dining cars at Red Caboose are completely charming and will make you feel as though you're about to embark on a relaxing rail journey across the United States. The entrees and other menu items are based on traditional meals Americans ate when they routinely traveled by rail. The fare is spectacular -- and the scenery is truly unique.

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Pennsylvania is a state that was made for day trips. Our prime location puts us within an easy drive of countless major cities, spectacular parks, must-visit landmarks, and incredible attractions. Exploring Pennsylvania is fun any time of the year, and that’s part of what makes our beautiful state so special. The best day trips in Pennsylvania are a mix of hidden gems and popular tourist attractions; outdoor recreation galore and indoor entertainment. Here are the 11 best day trips in Pennsylvania .

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5 Scenic Fall Train Rides

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore the outdoors in Pennsylvania and there’s no better way than a foliage train ride, so all aboard! Sit back, grab your camera, and enjoy the fall views on the most scenic train rides in PA.

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The Best Fall Train Rides in PA

1. lehigh gorge scenic railway.

Ride the rails on a vintage coach built as early as 1917 into the colorful, scenic views of the Lehigh Gorge State Park on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway . In September, the narrated 70-minute, 16-mile round-trip ride follows the majestic Lehigh River over bridges, through Glen Onoko, and into the Lehigh Gorge State Park. From Sep. 30-Nov. 5, enjoy a 45-minute fall train ride through gorgeous scenery on the railway’s Autumn Leaf Train excursions.

2. Colebrookdale Railroad

Ride the Colebrookdale Railroad , and view the vibrant colors of fall in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. For the best view, take the two-hour, round-trip journey of the Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage ride on select dates, Sep. 13-Nov. 19. Make the adventure extra special reserving a spot on select excursions featuring ice cream sundaes, beer & bratwurst, a Bloody Mary Brunch, or a late afternoon wine tasting!

3. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

Board the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad fall foliage train ride, Wednesdays through Sundays Oct. 1-15 for a relaxing, three-hour, round-trip excursion through the Oil Heritage Region and view nature’s colorful display in Oil Creek State Park. Reserve your tickets today before they are sold out!

4. Northern Central Railway of York

New Freedom

Enjoy the beauty of fall in southern York County on select dates in October on the Northern Central Railway of York , a mainline in operation since 1838. Ride to Glen Rock (1 hour), Hanover Junction (2 1/2 hours), or Howard Tunnel (3 1/2 hours) on a diesel- or steam-powered engine – your choice! Your conductor and brakeman will tell you about the history and growth of the towns and villages you pass along the way.

5. Rockhill Trolley Museum

Rockhill Furnace

Immerse yourself in fall foliage and photograph historic trolleys on Oct. 7 at the Rockhill Trolley Museum for its biggest event of the year, the Fall Spectacular. Their fully operational fleet of cars will be out and operating all day, including the fan favorite Liberty Liner!

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You might also like: All Aboard for Fall Foliage

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Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

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Scenic Train Rides In Pennsylvania

Find your perfect train ride in pennsylvania today.

Pennsylvania is home to one of the nations oldest and most historic railroads, the Strasburg Rail Road , that began as a tourist line in 1959. There are several excellent scenic train rides in Pennsylvania. The New Hope & Ivyland Railroad operates a 1925 steam locomotive dinner train and departs from a restored 1891 Victorian station. The West Chester Railroad operates holiday and special theme scenic train rides. The Tioga Central Railroad operates weekend scenic excursions during the summer in open air cars. The Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad operates special excursions with biking and canoeing opportunities. The Steam Town Historic Site operates several scenic rail excursions along with one of the nations most complete railroad history museums at the former Delaware Lackawanna & Western railroad shop complex. The Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad scenic trains ride run from Memorial Day through October.

Did you know?

Pennsylvania has over 140 steam locomotives in various conditions with the majority being either stored or on display. Reading & Northern 4-6-2 #425 runs occasional excursions and the ex-GW 2-10-0 #90 pulls scenic steam train rides on the Strasburg Rail Road. The Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Assoc offers a Locomotive Engineer Experience with a choice of either diesel or steam locomotives. Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4012 is on display at the Steamtown National Historic Site. Steamtown also offers cab rides on most days that the “Scranton Limited” train rides are running. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway travels over the former Lehigh Valley Railroad tracks and the newest steam locomotive, the Northern Central Railway 4-4-0 “York”, is a faithful replica of the Civil War locomotive that carried Abraham Lincoln to deliver his Gettysburg Address and is operated today by Steam into History . The Keystone state is noted for hosting some of America’s most famous railways, including those that can be found on the classic board game, Monopoly. These railroads included the PRR, B&O, and the Reading. Along with the NYC, Erie, Bessemer, Delaware & Hudson, Lackawanna and Lehigh Valley Railroad, these railroads formed the foundation for American rail transportation in the early 1900’s. Along with it’s 50 short lines and tourist railroads, the state ranks as one of the top 3 for railroading. Pennsylvania was also home to the Baldwin Locomotive Works, that began building steam locomotives in the 1830s and America’s first tourist railroad, the former Mauch Chuck Switchback, that began as a coal hauler at Jim Thorpe. Pennsylvania has both the first and the oldest all-iron railroad bridge still in service. The Richard Osbourne’s Manayunk Bridge used on the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad line, predecessor of the Reading Co. Railroad, was built about 1845. (One of its cast and wrought iron trusses is on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.) The Reading Railroad’s Hall’s Station Bridge, also built by Osbourne, was erected in 1846 and today stands as the the oldest iron railroad bridge still in use today, connecting a private farm to a branch of the former Reading. GE diesel electric locomotives are manufactured today in Erie.

Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum

Located near the famous Pennsylvania Railroad Horseshoe Curve, the Altoona Railroaders Memorial Museum houses railroading artifacts and is dedicated to revealing, interpreting, commemorating and celebrating the significant contributions of railroaders and their families to American life and industry. Directions

Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train

The Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train runs a scenic train rides along Mahanoy Mountain. Steam power features a narrow gauge 0-4-0T, the 1927 Henry Clay steam locomotive, and includes tours of the Mammoth Stripping . Directions.

Bellefonte Historical Railroad

The Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society runs a 60 mile scenic trainride over the Nittany & Bald Eagle Railroad.. Restored 1888 station houses museum with historical railroad memorabilia. Look for Fall and Santa Express train rides in season.

Colebrookdale Railroad

Starting in 1865, the Colebrookdale Railroad began construction of the line between Boyertown and Pottstown with train service beginning in 1869. The 9 mile route was nicknamed the “Secret Valley Line”. Today, two-hour round trip scenic train rides wind their way along the Manatawny Creek through woodlands and over historic bridges as they chug through Pine Forge and into West Pottsgrove Township. Passengers depart and arrive from Boyertown, traveling aboard vintage 1920s open-window coaches, a caboose, and the Secret Valley Explorer Open Car. Directions

Pioneer Lines Scenic Railway

Pioneer Lines Scenic Railway operates scenic train rides through portions of the Civil War battlefield and the Pennsylvania countryside. Other excursions include the Gettysburg Ghost Train , a Murder Mystery Train , an Evening Paradise Dinner Train and a Santa Train train ride. The Cornell family uses its privately-owned trains for tours through the surrounding countryside, including the Gettysburg battlefield. Web site is longer available and phone has been disconnected.

Harris Tower

National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) – Harrisburg Chapter. On display: GG1 #4859 is an ex-PRR electric locomotive built in the Juniata Locomotive Shop (Altoona, PA) in 1937. It was the first electric locomotive to arrive in Harrisburg. Also, N6b #980016,an ex-PRR wooden offset-cupola cabin car that was built June 1920.

Hollidaysburg

Everett railroad.

Newly restored Everett Railroad 2-6-0 Number 11 operates round trip scenic train rides from Hollidaysburg to Brookes Mill. Ride behind the 1920 “Mogul” type number 11 aboard former-Delaware Lackawanna & Western (DL&W) Multiple-Unit (MU) cars that have been converted to coaches while enjoying the beautiful countryside of central Pennsylvania. Excursions include Fall foliage theme train rides and Santa Express Steam train rides beginning in late November and running through late December.

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway travels over the former Lehigh Valley Railroad. This 16 mile scenic train ride now travels through some of Pennsylvania’s most scenic landscape. Originating from “the Little Switzerland of America”, this one hour excursion train ride crosses the Lehigh River several times as you travel aboard vintage 1920s open air coaches.

Reading, Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad

Scenic train rides on the Reading, Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad vary and have several departure points. The newly-rebuilt steam locomotive Reading & Northern No. 425, a 1928 Baldwin 4-6-2, is also used on occasion on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway . See schedule for details.

Wanamake, Kempton & Southern

Weekend train rides from May through October. The Wanamake, Kempton & Southern offers special events throughout the season including the popular December season finale Santa Claus Special . Private charters, caboose rentals also available. Directions.

Mechanicsburg

Williams grove historical steam engine assoc..

The WGHSEA runs steam locomotive rides from April through September. Want to ride in a steam locomotive? The Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association also offers the opportunity for you to run their former Pennsylvania Railroad 0-6-0, #643. Built in 1901 in the PRR’s own shops in Altoona, PA., No.643 has been a favorite at Williams Grove since 1961. Qualified locomotive crew will teach you the basics of how to operate a locomotive, and then you will take her out on their mile of track! Slots are available in 30 minute increments.

Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad

Relax and enjoy an 11 mile, 1 hour and 15 minute, scenic train ride aboard the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad along the Swatara Creek, while learning about the history of the area. Passengers travel aboard 1920’s vintage Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad coaches that depart from a 1891 Freight Station in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Directions

New Freedom

Northern central railway.

Steam into History operates the Northern Central Railway 4-4-0 “York” steam train and chronicles the role York County, PA., played during the Civil War. In November of 1863, Abraham Lincoln traveled on the Northern Central on his way to deliver his Gettysburg Address, changing trains in Hanover Junction, PA. After Lincoln’s assassination in 1865, his body was transported via the same rails on the funeral train’s journey from Washington, D.C., to Springfield, Illinois.

New Hope & Ivyland Railroad

Ride aboard vintage 1920s coaches on the New Hope & Ivy Railroad scenic train ride, pulled by either a 1925 Baldwin 2-8-0 steam locomotive, No. 40, or a diesel locomotive through Bucks county. Departure on New Hope & Ivy Railroad is from a restored 1891 Victorian station. Directions

East Broad Top Railroad

A National Historic Landmark, the East Broad Top Railroad is a narrow gauge scenic excursion steam train ride that operates a combination of antique wooded coaches and open air flat cars built in the 1920s. The four and a half mile excursions run weekends from June through October. Steam train rides are pulled by a BLW 1914 2-8-2 Mikado. 2012: East Broad Top Railroad officially announced that it will no longer be operating steam powered excursions.

Robertsdale

Friends of the east broad top.

Friends of the East Broad Top Railroad Museum is located at the railroad’s original southern most operating terminus. Museum is open first and third weekends May through September. The East Broad Top Railroad Museum in Robertsdale is located in the former EBT Robertsdale depot and contains a priceless collection of artifacts from the railroad’s common carrier era.

Steamtown National Historic Site

Relive the golden age of steam railroading with the “Live Steam” experience. Steamtown National Historic Site operates the Canadian Pacific 4-6-2 #2317 steam locomotive, built in 1923 for passenger service and the 1917 Canadian National 2-8-2, No. 3254 that pull excursion trains through the woodlands of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Museum complex includes visitors center, theater, history museum, round house and technology museum. Steamtown scenic train rides include a short excursion aboard vintage commuter coaches on the Scranton Limited. Locomotive cab rides are also available. Displays include the only Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4012, that is exhibited in the eastern US. Directions Update 2014 : Steamtown NHS is not currently operating mainline steam locomotives. CN #2317 is currently out of service for repairs and a 1,472 day FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) mandated inspection along with CN #3254.

Strasburg Rail Road

Traveling aboard the Strasburg Rail Road is like traveling back in time when you arrive at the oldest railroad company in the America. The historic Strasburg Rail Road’s nine mile steam train ride runs though Amish farmland and features several different travel accommodations, including fully restored open air coaches, a deluxe lounge car and a first class parlor coach. Steam train rides are powered by either ex-N&W M Class 4-8-0 475 or the ex-GW 2-10-0 #90. Special excursions include a Wine & Cheese, Dinner & Murder Mystery Trains. Check schedule for “Day Out with Thomas” trains as well. The Strasburg Rail Road was listed in Parade Magazine’s top ten “Unforgettable Day Trips by Rail”.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Located across the street from the Strasburg Railroad, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania has an extensive world-class collection of former Pennsylvania Railroad locomotives, cars and artifacts. Among the restored locomotives on display, the PRR”s No. 460, 1914 built Atlantic Class 4-4-2, known as the Lindbergh Engine and the 1920 Pacific Class 4-6-2, No 3750. Also on display is PRR class GG-1 2-C+C-2 electric #4935 and “Old Rivets”, the original 1935 PRR GG1 #4800. Museum features over 40 different pieces of locomotive power along with an extensive model train layout used to allow youngsters to learn how real trains are assembled, routed to their destinations, and serviced.

Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

A two and a half hour scenic train ride aboard the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad runs thought the Oil Creek State Park. Departure is from an 1892 – vintage freight station. Bicyclists and canoeist welcomed, as they will drop you off along the route. Fall Foliage , the Santa Train ride and Murder Mystery Dinner excursions are very popular. Directions

Fayette Central Railroad

Fayette Central railroad runs weekend themed excursions train rides that include Easter Bunny , Pumpkin Patch , Fall Foliage and Santa Claus trains through the foothills of the Laural Mountains.

Due to increased traffic on the SWP the Fayette Central Railroad discontinued operating after 2012.

Tioga Central Railroad

The Tioga Central Railroad of Wellsboro, Pennsylvania operates excursion and charter train rides on a thirty-four mile, 90 minute, railroad extending north from Wellsboro, Pennsylvania to a location about three miles south of Corning, New York. Scenic train rides run weekends from Memorial Day through October. Excursions include All American BBQ Dinner Train , Sunset Special , Fall Foliage Express , Fireworks Special , and The Lake Shore Twilight . Directions

West Chester

West chester railroad.

The West Chester Railroad runs nostalgic 90 minute scenic, round trip, train rides between Market Street in West Chester, Chester County and the village of Glen Mills, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Directions .

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Long time train and railroad enthusiast. Retired from computer service and repair. Currently write and develop websites for tourist railroads in the US.

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Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

Come ride the rails..

The Oil Creek Valley is world-famous for its past and the people that lived it. We take you back more than 150 years into the heart of Oil Country in vintage cars built by Pullman in 1930. Our main station, Perry Street Station, is an early 1890s vintage freight station located at 409 S Perry St, Titusville, PA.

409 S Perry St Titusville, PA 16354

Ticket Information

Visit our Railway Post Office Car, the only one still in operation in the USA!

Be sure to bring your address book – you can mail a postcard or letter right on the train. Each piece of mail receives an official USPS OC&T hand stamp! Snack and beverages are also available on the Railway Post Office car, as well as at our Perry Street Station and Rynd Farm Station.

Your 3-hour round trip will take you through scenic Oil Creek State Park, to where oil history began.

You’ll learn about the people and places that made up Pennsylvania Oil Country. Your family can share the fun of train travel and relive history. See a variety of wildlife from groundhogs to bald eagles, with ducks, deer, and blue heron, as well as the occasional black bear.

Ride in style on the Wabash, our First Class Car with air conditioning and more comfortable seats.

Seating is limited in First Class and does sell out, so be sure to order your tickets early. (Not available for Murder Mystery Dinners and certain other rides. Please inquire when making reservations.)

Regular Excursions

Opening day:, special events and tours.

You’ll find special attractions…

…like our open air Gondola Car. Weather permitting, you’ll have a perfect view of the Oil Creek Valley. (Availability subject to change.)

Be sure to visit our Museum, Gift Shop & Concession Stand at Perry Street Station, open any day we have a train ride scheduled. Concessions available at Rynd Farm Station (halfway point) including ice cream novelties (open June through October only).

We are handicapped accessible.

All of our stations have floor-level boarding platforms and wheelchair ramps. Wheelchair/scooter seating is limited to six on our Railway Post Office Car, with one attendant.

Please note: due to limited space on the RPO car, only one attendant per wheelchair/scooter will be permitted. Since space is limited, advanced reservations are required. Our passenger cars are vintage equipment and cannot accommodate wheelchairs or scooters. Murder Mystery dinners and some special events are not wheelchair accessible.

The Stourbridge Line

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Explore the Northern Poconos by Rail!

Discover new journeys and make unforgettable memories 

with The Stourbridge Line!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Runaway train brewery beer tasting experience.

Depart Honesdale station and enjoy a beautiful ride along the Lackawaxen River, while being treated to two pints of the Runaway Train Brewer...

ARTS & CRAFTS - HAWLEY EXPLORER

Climb aboard and ride the rails to downtown Hawley, where you'll find a plethora of activities, restaurants, and stores to explore! 

The Nort...

PRINCESS AND SUPERHERO TRAIN

Climb aboard and ride the rails to our Private Venue, where your favorite comic book Superhero and storybook Princess will be there to meet ...

Wednesdays throughout the Summer

Pocono express.

Climb aboard and experience the beauty of the Northern Pocono Mountains by rail! Enjoy all the scenery and wildlife along the Lackawaxen Riv...

RUNAWAY TRAIN BEER TASTINGS

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THE STOURBRIDGE LINE

 812 Main Street               

 Honesdale PA 18431                     

(570) 470-2697

EMAIL: [email protected]

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Visit Gettysburg

Everything About Gettysburg

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Gettysburg train rides and museums.

If you have a train hobby or know someone who does, the Gettysburg train rides and museums should be part of your Gettysburg vacation!

Take a Scenic Train Ride

You can actually ride a train across the day 1 battlefields and travel north of town with Pioneer Lines Scenic Railway . It’s fun for kids of all ages and one of the best Gettysburg tours! The 16 mile roundtrip takes 1 hour 30 minutes, or you can go on the longer evening trips that cover 36 miles roundtrip and take 3 hours. The conductor narrates and points out notable historic sites. You can arrange to have lunch or dinner. Special cab rides with the engineer and conductor are available for those ages 18 and up. There are also special train rides such as the Ghost Train, Murder Mystery Dinner Train, Mt. Holly Springs Excursion, Abe Lincoln Train, and the Santa Train. Call (717)334-6932 to make reservations.

UPDATE 2010: This number is currently out of service. It seems they have gone out of business. If you know anything about it, please let me know! I’m leaving my page and story here because so many people enjoy reading it.

An exciting Gettysburg train tour was on my wish list like the horseback tour , but I was able to persuade my family to accompany me on this one! We’ve been on the Strasburg railroad to Paradise and the Western Maryland train ride to Frostburg. My great-grandfather Howard Harpel worked on the Western Maryland Railroad as a track foreman.

Here’s a little video I put together about our train experience:

We took the 1 hour and 30 minutes Scenic Ride on a sunny, warm day in October 2007. Our conductor, who told us about the things we saw, is a descendant of Longstreet! We rode up to Biglerville, PA and passed some things related to the Musselman’s apple company, which are not in my video. You’ll have to take a ride on the train yourself to see them!

Tour a Museum

At the Lincoln Train Museum you can take a simulated train ride while listening to President Abraham Lincoln prepare to give his address . The Gettysburg train museum has a toy train collection with models from the 1800s to the present day, Civil War dioramas, and an 1890 caboose.

The gift shop at the Lincoln Train Museum is excellent. There’s a toy train running around the ceiling. They have all kinds of things train, Civil War, and Gettysburg related that appeal to a variety of ages and tastes.

Return from Gettysburg Train to Gettysburg Tours

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Ride along the same route that carried President Lincoln from Washington, DC to Gettysburg, PA, where he delivered one of the greatest speeches in American History!

New Freedom, PA

On track for great adventures, northern central railway is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational, charitable organization, located in new freedom, pa. the historic attraction, with a replica 1860s steam locomotive and a gp9 diesel engine, hosts excursions that educate, entertain and enlighten., northern central railway is an excursion railroad that makes time travel possible it’s an authentic experience where you can meet presidents and generals, experience the wild west, enjoy the spirit of the season any time of year and literally ride along the very rails that helped build and save our nation, calendar of events.

Take Dad on a relaxing train ride from West Chester to Glen Mills and return on his special day. During your brief layover in Glen Mills, you will be able to explore the historic Glen Mills train station as well as our picnic grove along the Chester Creek. All Dads ride for a special reduced fare!

Enjoy a train ride from West Chester to Glen Mills and return on a warm summer afternoon. Pack a lunch to have during our stop at the Glen Mills train station picnic grove.

West Chester Railroad

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Where to Take a Poconos Fall Foliage Train Ride

Want to experience the beautiful fall foliage and rich heritage of the Pocono Mountains at the same time? Climb aboard for a railroad ride through the Poconos!

From the first steam locomotive in the United States to one of the world's first roller coasters, the Poconos region of Pennsylvania was full of pioneering railroads in the nineteenth century, with local lines moving essential goods to nearby cities like Philadelphia and New York City. Victorian vacationers also arrived by train, and visitors today can experience that tradition through exciting local train tours and excursions.

Train Tours

Watch the scenery through the windows of a cozy railcar as you ride through charming Pocono…

Sit back in a classic coach as the train puffs along beneath the colorful trees , take a trip underground and back in time at an immersive museum or travel along the tracks under your own pedal power. Keep reading to find the perfect Poconos fall foliage train ride to try this fall !

The Stourbridge Line

Lehigh gorge scenic railway, pennsylvania rail bike, no. 9 coal mine and museum, trolley tours in the poconos.

The very first steam locomotive to be operated in the United States arrived in Honesdale , Pennsylvania in 1829, commissioned by the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company as part of their coal transportation network. Visitors today can find a replica of that early train, the Stourbridge Lion, at the Wayne County Historical Society & Museum , housed in the old D&H Canal Company headquarters; but to take to the tracks yourself, you'll want to book a trip with The Stourbridge Line .

All aboard The Stourbridge Line! Scenic passenger trains through the Pocono Mountains. Experience a…

Connecting the charming towns of Honesdale and Hawley , The Stourbridge Line's Pocono Foliage Express runs select dates through the end of October: an hour and a half round-trip encompassing 20 miles of Wayne County's stunning fall scenery. If the kids haven't picked their jack-o-lanterns yet, don't miss a ride on the Pumpkin Patch Express , departing from Honesdale on Saturdays and Sundays from October 1 to October 29. The Blue Moon Express , running one night only on October 28, is a Halloween trip just for adults. Come in costume and enjoy a scenic sunset and moonrise over the Lackawaxen River!

Pocono Foliage Express

Pumpkin Patch Express

Blue Moon Express

Don't forget to keep an eye out for more seasonal trips with The Stourbridge Line all throughout the year including the Honesdale Santa Christmas Tree Express and the Hawley Santa Christmas Tree Express .

The D&H Canal Company engineers weren't the only ones laying tracks in the Poconos in the 1800s. In Carbon County, the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company founded the town of Jim Thorpe (originally known as Mauch Chunk) and used an innovative incline and gravity design for their Switchback Railroad . Now a peaceful biking trail, it is considered one of the world's first roller coasters and, after the construction of a new tunnel moved the coal route, became a popular attraction for Victorian tourists.

Switchback Railroad Trail

Lehigh Gorge State Park

Industrial development by the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Co. was also underway along the Lehigh River in the nineteenth century. Portions of the Upper Grand Canal can still be seen in what is today Lehigh Gorge State Park , and the railway-grade trail along the river offers a superb route for hiking and biking , often running alongside the tracks of the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway .

Experience a ride the whole family will enjoy! Comfortable, vintage coaches built as early as 1917…

A trip aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway begins at the same impressive train station that Victorian visitors used; built in 1888, the beautiful brick building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a 70-minute round trip scenic train excursion like the Autumn Leaf Train Excursion through the rocky cliffs and lush mountainsides as your vintage coach winds out of Jim Thorpe, past Glen Onoko, and out to White Haven.

Hoping to bring your four-legged best friend along? The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is pet-friendly ! If you're interested in cycling along the D&L Trail through Lehigh Gorge State Park , take advantage of the Bike Train , offered on November 11 and 12, to conserve your energy and experience the route by both track and trail.

Autumn Leaf Train Excursions

Autumn isn't the only season when you can experience the magic of Lehigh Gorge by rail: don't miss their summer excursions and winter tours like the Santa Claus Special and Winter Character Trips.

While Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway's bike train allows you to combine cycling and a train tour, there's an even more immersive way to bike along the tracks. Formerly known as Soarin' Eagle Rail Tours, Pennsylvania Rail Bike in Hawley allows visitors to pedal right on the railroad (when the trains aren't running!) in unique two- or four-seater rail bikes. It's a perfect way to spend an afternoon out in the crisp fall air with family members or friends! Now with electric pedal assist, rail bike rides are more effortless and enjoyable than ever. Check out the fall special Peddlin' & Pumpkin Pickin' trip which allows guests to hop off the rail bikes at a farm along the route and pick some pumpkins, included in the price of the ticket.

The Pocono Mountains first and only electric railbiking recreational adventure. Electric railbiking…

Most of the train tours in the Poconos curve around the area's scenic mountains, but there's one that goes deep inside the mountain! The No. 9 Mine & Museum in Lansford just outside of Jim Thorpe highlights the coal mining history that first brought the railroads to the region and offers visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience history first-hand. Travel by rail 1,600 feet into the hillside, walk the mule-way, and examine the original 700-foot mine shaft. Delving into the "Mammoth Vein" deposit from 1855 to 1972, No. 9 was the longest continuously-operated deep anthracite coal mine in the world.

No. 9 Coal Mine & Museum

Tour a real coal mine dating back to 1855! Hop in a mine car and take the tracks over 1,600 feet…

Can't get enough of old-fashioned transportation? Hop aboard a trolley tour! Both Jim Thorpe Trolley Company , operating out of Jim Thorpe , and The Pocono Historic Trolley Tour , operating out of Delaware Water Gap , invite visitors to learn more about the history of the Poconos during a ride on a quaint tram. While these trolleys run on the roads rather than rails, they are an excellent way to enjoy an autumn afternoon out.

Jim Thorpe Trolley Company

The Pocono Historic Trolley Tour

Looking to learn more about our region's trains? Watch the video below from Pocono Television Network !

Click below to check out the train excursions episode from the Pocono Mountains Podcast.

With so many different train tours to experience in the Pocono Mountains, why not give yourself time to try them all? Book an overnight stay , lock in savings with regional special offers , and find even more fun things to do in the area. Treat yourself to an autumn getaway in the Poconos: get ideas for more ways to see the leaves and consult our fall foliage forecast to find out when the colors will be at their peak. Plan a return trip to ride the train through our beautiful scenery during all four seasons !

All Aboard in the Poconos

Places To Stay

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25 Ways To View Fall Foliage

Fall Foliage Forecast

Emily Whalen

Emily Whalen is the Communications Manager for the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. A small town coffee shop connoisseur and lifelong lover of the mountains, she is excited to share tips to help visitors make the most of their stay in the Poconos. Sign up to receive the monthly Pocono Mountains Newsletter .

Explored Planet

Add These Scenic Train Rides In The US To Your Bucket List

Posted: May 31, 2024 | Last updated: June 1, 2024

Every day, over 87,000 passengers ride an Amtrak train in the U.S. Because the popularity of trains is only growing, they aren't going anywhere. Trains don't only get you to your destination quickly, but they also provide stunning views of the landscape that car drivers can't see.

If you want to explore America, board a train that provides one-of-a-kind views of the natural habitat. From the Grand Canyon to the glaciers of Alaska, these trains give you a relaxing and exciting peak of the country. Definitely add these U.S. train rides to your bucket list! Keep reading to learn more! Which one will you try first?

The Coast Starlight From Los Angeles To Seattle

Since 1971, the Coast Starlight has sent people from southern California through Oregon and Washington. The train glides next to the Pacific Ocean for 30 to 35 hours. Passengers can see Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Mount Shasta, and the Cascade Range.

Along with great views, the Coast Starlight offers dining and large, comfortable seats. The train offers four menu options, and some passengers can even bring their pets. If you want to see the major cities of the West Coast, travel on the Coast Starlight .

The Summit Excursion Across Alaska

The Summit Excursion travels down the White Pass Yukon Railroad, which rises 2,865 feet through the mountains of Alaska. Passengers ride in old cars that date back to the Klondike Gold Rush, and they see glaciers, waterfalls, tunnels, and historical sites throughout the state.

Since Alaska gets so cold, you can sightsee within the warm train. But if you want some outside activity too, you can book a train ride and bike ride package, or a train ride and bus trip. The Summit Excursion is a well-rounded view of Alaska.

Read More: Some People Consider These To Be The Most Overrated Tourist Attractions In The United States

Cape Cod Central Railroad In Massachusetts

The Cape Cod Central Railroad sends tourists across the natural wonders of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. For two hours, passengers can see cranberry bogs, salt marshes, and sand dunes. The train stops for a Sunday brunch or a five-course dinner meal, depending on which ride people book.

Throughout the 27-mile train ride, a narration plays that guides passengers along the route. Tourists can learn about the natural habitat and history of Massachusetts, with views that you can only see from the tracks. If you're interested, remember that Cape Code Central Railroad only runs on certain dates.

Mount Washington Cog Railway Through New Hampshire

In the middle of New Hampshire, the highest peak in the American Northeast, Mt. Washington, tours 6,288 feet into the air. During the late 1860s, engineers built the first mountain-climbing train in the world, which became Mount Washington Cog Railway .

The three-hour train ride cuts through New Hampshire State Park and panoramic views of five other states. If the weather is clear enough, you can even see Canada! An onboard tour will direct your attention to the prettiest sights. For breathtaking views of the snow, board the train in winter.

Grand Canyon Railway In Arizona

If you want a scenic journey through one of the seven wonders of the world, hop on the Grand Canyon Railway . The train passes centuries-old rail cars that have been restored to reflect the Wild West. The railway partners with the Grand Canyon Hotel, where visitors can stay after the ride.

Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway has taken tourists through the deserts, pines, and prairies around the Grand Canyon. You can reserve your car and food ahead of time and enjoy musicians along the ride.

The Southwest Chief Throughout Southern America

There's no better tour of Southwest and Midwestern America than the Southwest Chief. Covering 2,265 miles, the train crosses eight states from Chicago to Los Angeles. Passengers can view the red cliffs of Sedona, the plains of Kansas, the Grand Canyon, and the famous Mississippi River.

The Southwest Chief runs for over 40 hours and provides lounge cars, sleeping cars, and onboard dining. From the train, you can see modern farmers and ancient missions alike. It's no wonder that celebrities have been riding the Southwest Chief since the 1930s!

The Pacific Surfliner, Southern California

As its name suggests, the Pacific Surfliner glides along the California coastline of the Pacific Ocean. The train rides from San Louis Obispo (above Santa Barbara) down to San Diego, and it hugs the coast the entire time. If you travel at sunset, you'll get a show!

If you want to visit California Disneyland in Anaheim, the Surfliner offers deals for anyone who wants to tour the Happiest Place on Earth. If not, you can explore the entirety of southern and mid-California with food and drinks included.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Through Colorado

If you want to explore Colorado through the eyes of 19th-century gold and silver miners, hop on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad . The locomotive zigzags through 64 miles of forests, the San Juan mountains, and the border of New Mexico. At its highest point, the train climbs 10,015 feet up a mountain! (Don't worry; it's only a 4% rise.)

If you ride in the deluxe parlor car, you'll see that the coach glimmers with Victorian design and a golden shimmer. Keep your eyes out, and you may spot some elk or bears among the aspen trees.

The California Zephyr From Illinois To California

Do you want to see abandoned mining towns from the 1840s Gold Rush? If you buy a ticket for the California Zephyr , you can see all the notable ghost towns from Chicago to Denver to San Francisco. On this train, you can witness seven states' worth of history in under two hours.

The California Zephyr offers four-day packages where you can catch the train leaving from different stations. The cars offer several service rooms, roomy seats, and awe-inspiring views. You can't catch a better view of the Rocky Mountains!

The Empire Builder From Chicago To Portland

Amtrak's Empire Builder Train follows the adventures of Lewis and Clark. Since 1929, the Empire Builder has traveled from Chicago to Portland and Seattle. Passengers explore the Mississippi River, Minneapolis, and the North Dakota plains in the same order as Lewis and Clark did.

The Empire Builder travels north through Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and the tip of Idaho. Passengers see forests, mountains, and Montana's Glacier National Park. Plus, the train offers full family bedrooms for those who choose to explore 2,200 miles of the American wilderness.

The Strasburg Railroad In Pennsylvania

The Strasburg Railroad has operated since 1832, making it one of America's oldest railroads. The short, 45-minute train ride takes visitors through the Amish countryside of Pennsylvania. The trains mirror authentic steam locomotives, with pumps cars and conductors dressed as 19th-century employees.

The Strasburg slices through Pennsylvania's industrial heart, filled with rolling hills and farms that once fed the entire state. The trip offers "train robbery" and "murder mystery" rides, complete with full performances that transport passengers back to 1934. At its cheapest, Strasburg Railroad only costs $15!

The Napa Valley Wine Train, Northern California

Hundreds of vineyards dot Napa Valley, an area that stretches north of San Francisco, California. If you're a wine tasting fan, you can explore the most beautiful vineyards in the country through the Napa Valley Wine Train . The train stops by several wineries for passengers to disembark and have some fun!

The Napa Valley Train also offers a unique murder mystery ride. If you sign up, you'll ride on an antique train and solve a "murder" where you may have to hide your identity from fellow dinner guests. It's a unique train ride to be sure!

Read More: Americans No Longer Want To Live In These States And They're Moving On To Greener Pastures

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