Journey Through Time
Steamtown National Historic Site, located in downtown Scranton, is a treasure for history buffs, train enthusiasts, and families looking for an engaging and educational outing. More than just a museum, this 52-acre site offers an immersive experience that transports visitors to the golden age of steam railroading.
Managed by the National Park Service, this unique one-of-a-kind destination features a historic railyard and an extensive collection of antique locomotives and artifacts. Situated on the former Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad (DL&W) yard, which was a bustling hub during the height of the steam era, Steamtown now serves as a living history museum where the legacy of steam railroading comes to life.
Whether you’re a seasoned rail fan or simply looking for an interesting day trip, hop aboard and journey back in time at this captivating historical site. Here’s a glimpse into the must-see attractions and activities you can experience at Steamtown.
This world-class museum features interactive rail car exhibits, informative displays, and a short introductory film, “Steel & Steam,” offering a comprehensive introduction to your journey into the past.
The museum’s elements seamlessly connect Northeastern Pennsylvania’s coal mining heritage with the transportation and commerce developments that began during the Industrial Revolution.
The heart of Steamtown is its historic railyard, where visitors can explore numerous tracks filled with a number of locomotives and railcars. This area allows eager train-enthusiasts a chance to see and touch the powerful machines that once crisscrossed the nation.
The yard is a dynamic exhibit space, with locomotives and cars in various stages of restoration, showcasing the ongoing efforts to preserve this important piece of American history.
A visit to the Roundhouse is like stepping back in time. Here, you can witness the restoration and maintenance of historic steam locomotives.
The impressive operational turntable, still in use today, demonstrates how locomotives are moved in and out of the Roundhouse and onto different tracks—a fascinating process for both kids and adults.
During this 45-minute behind-the-scenes tour, Park Rangers and volunteers guide you through the locomotive repair and maintenance shop. Skilled craftsmen and engineers work tirelessly to keep these magnificent machines in working order. This unique experience allows you to witness firsthand the craftsmanship and dedication involved in preserving the legacy of steam railroading.
Note: Shop tours are currently suspended due to planned renovations and upgrades.
One of the highlights of any visit to Steamtown is the opportunity to take a train ride. Seasonal excursions, powered by historic steam engines, offer a unique way to experience the sights and sounds of railroading history and NEPA landscape.
Rail experiences vary from short 30-minute trips exploring the park’s historic railroad yard to full-day trips through the Poconos and are offered from May through October.
Join Steamtown’s Junior Ranger and Railroad Explorer programs to explore the history of railroads and learn fascinating facts, like how crossing the U.S. took months before the transcontinental railroad.
As a Junior Ranger, you’ll pledge to protect the park and share your discoveries, using the Railroad Explorer activity book to enhance your adventure.
Located at the Steamtown National Historic Site, the museum offers an interactive exploration of electric railway history. The station hosts themed rides, children’s events, and special holiday trips, including rides to PNC Field for RailRiders games and festive trips benefiting Toys for Tots.
The museum features interactive exhibits, vintage trolley cars, and artifacts from Scranton’s first trolley line in 1887. Kids will enjoy hands-on displays about electricity and a giant model trolley set.
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Featured image courtesy of NPS Photo: VIP Ethan H
Steamtown National Historic Site
