The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is a fascinating institution that tracks the history of the Commonwealth’s rail system in the United States. Its exhibits encourage visitors to consider how the railroad has affected lives and helped to shape the nation. Make your way through the range of exhibits to get a sense of the importance of the railroad in the U.S.
Arrive at the museum and admire the early 20th-century style of its façade. Gaze up at the blue clock tower and pass through the entrance below. The museum covers an area of 18 acres (7 hectares) and contains an exhibition hall, a vast library and an outdoor yard, which is closed in severe weather. As you might expect, much of the inside of the museum is decorated with a railroad theme.
Admire some of the trains on display in the museum, which contains about 100 locomotives from the mid-19th through the 20th century. See the enormous steam trains from a bygone era. Examine the array of railroad tools, lanterns and signs. Get a closer look at some of the restored engines and miscellaneous items. The museum also has a large collection of rolling stock, including wagons and carriages.
View the photography exhibits that portray historic trains in action and read archive material detailing the progression of the rail system over the years. Browse the range of items on sale at the museum gift shop.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from morning until late afternoon and on Sunday afternoons. It is closed on Mondays in winter. Purchase tickets and get discounts for youths and seniors.
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is in the eastern outskirts of Strasburg in the southeastern corner of the state. Drive west from Philadelphia for 60 miles (100 kilometers) to get here in less than 2 hours. Visit nearby attractions in the area, including the Amish Farm and House, Pequea Creek and the National Toy Train Museum.
