Tucked away in the city of Scranton, Pennsylvania, the Steamtown National Historic Site is a fascinating tribute to the era of steam railroading in America. Occupying about 40 acres of the Scranton railroad yard of the former Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, this historic site offers a remarkable blend of history, education, and nostalgia.
A Living Museum
Steamtown National Historic Site serves as a living museum, offering a compelling look at the history and technology of steam railroading. Visitors are immediately transported to a bygone era as they explore the large collection of vintage steam locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and maintenance equipment.
Historic Structures and Exhibits
The site houses many original structures, including the roundhouse, where much of the collection is kept, and the turntable, used to change the direction of locomotives. Inside the roundhouse, visitors can get an up-close view of ongoing restoration and preservation work, an essential part of keeping this slice of history alive.
Interactive exhibits and displays throughout the site tell the story of steam railroading’s rise and decline, its impact on America’s growth, and the people associated with the industry. The park’s theater showcases a film that provides an introduction to the history and operations of the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad.
Train Rides
One of the highlights of a visit to Steamtown is a ride on a short excursion train pulled by a steam locomotive. During these rides, visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era while journeying through the park and the surrounding areas. The park also offers seasonal longer-distance excursions, which provide a unique way to explore the scenic landscapes of northeastern Pennsylvania.
Railroad Technology
The Technology Museum, located in the former DL&W railroad storehouse, presents an array of exhibits about steam railroading. Interactive displays and vintage equipment pieces provide insights into the science and engineering of steam locomotives, helping visitors understand how workers built and operated these machines.
Visitor Amenities
Amenities at the national historic site include a bookstore featuring a wide range of railroad-themed books and souvenirs. Accessible walking paths, clear signage, and knowledgeable park staff ensure a comfortable and informative visit.
Steamtown National Historic Site Entrance Fee
Entrance to the historic site is FREE. But you need to purchase tickets for excursions and train rides.
Steamtown National Historic Site Train Rides
Ticket prices for short train rides are as follows:
- General Admission (ages 6+): $6.00
- Child under 6 years old: $1.00
Steamtown National Historic Site Excursions
Excursion ticket prices are as follows:
- Senior (ages 62 and above): $23.00 – $50.00
- Adult (ages 12-61): $25.00 – $55.00
- Youth (ages 3-11): $18.00 – $33.00
- Child (ages 2 and under): $1.00
Steamtown National Historic Site Upcoming Events
A list of upcoming events can be found on their official website.
A visit to the national historic site is a fascinating journey into America’s railroading past. The site’s comprehensive collection, engaging exhibits, and historic train rides provide a rich, hands-on learning experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious visitor, Steamtown offers a unique opportunity to delve into a pivotal chapter of America’s industrial history.
Where is Steamtown National Historic Site?
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