
If you’re choo-choo-choosing activities perfect for your locomotive lovin’ family this season, check out the historic PA railroad – The Strasburg Railroad. This 185 year old steam engine extravaganza is in Strasburg, PA.

Trains Make Kids Happy!
If you have a train happy kid they will be beyond thrilled to make a visit. Besides the old time steam engines that have been operating for close to two centuries, there are all kind of fun activities to do, keeping your kids outside and busy for hours!
Our adventure began taking a ride on the historic PA railroad train overlooking the beautiful Lancaster farmland. As we chugged ahead in our open air train car we were able to take advantage of the breeze while still being covered from the sun. Inside Outside perfection.

Tons Of Fun Activities After The Train Ride
Après-train, we spent several hours meandering around the station enjoying the “fun extras” including mini stream trains and pump cars. But hands down my kid’s favorite attraction was the cranky cars.
These hand-propelled cars (perfectly size for both my seven year old and three year old) date back to the 1930s, and allow little ones to crank their way around a train track.
Thank goodness the line was short, as I’d estimate they went on roughly 400 times – laughing hysterically each time.
But before I mock, I should say I’m pretty sure I have the same exact picture of me at this age, at this same historic PA railroad, doing the same exact thing, in the same exact location!

Thomas The Tank Engine Visits This Historic PA Railroad!
If your kid’s jam is Thomas then a visit to this historic PA railroad is a must during their Day Out With Thomas event. With photo ops galore and some extra activities available, all your kid’s dreams can come true with their #1 light blue friend.

Events Galore At This Historic PA Railroad
If the Sodor obsession has sailed, check out The Strasburg Railroad’s other great upcoming events including The Great Train Robbery.
Not sure yet when you can locomo-tivate to go? (sorry) You can buy tickets at anytime online making it nice and easy to visit this historic PA railroad.
If your visit spans lunchtime, check out their dining car or the beautiful Picnic Groves. I’ve always wanted to eat in the dining car of a train… sounds so romantic. Someone watch my kids.

If Your Kid Is A History Buff
If you like to rock it Andrew Jackson style, this family attraction is for you. For the history buffs out there, it’s cool to learn how the The Strasburg Railroad – the oldest continuously operating railroad in the western hemisphere – got to be such a giant and how it was integral to the area’s success. The Strasburg Railroad is a great place to visit on your Lancaster adventure.

There are so many wonderful destinations in the Amish Country. The hardest part of planning a vacation there is finding enough time to do them all. Happy travels!
Don’t forget to check out all the family friendly vacation spots we’ve researched!
More on The Mint Chip Mama:
Real Mom Life, Family Travel & Everyday Chaos
Thanks for stopping by The Mint Chip Mama – your go-to source for family travel tips, real parenting moments, lifestyle hacks, and everything in between. This is where motherhood gets messy, magical, and served with a scoop of mint chip ice cream. From unforgettable family adventures to food finds, beauty faves, and honest takes on women’s health, I cover it all with humor, heart, and a sprinkle of sass.
Hooked already? Good news—there’s even more amazing content ahead! Find us on a podcast, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Amazon, TikTok, and YouTube for daily inspiration, mom truths, and parenting laughs.
📩 Don’t miss a thing! Subscribe below for updates and fresh content delivered straight to your inbox.
Looking for the Perfect Gift or Party Idea?
Check out my Amazon Store for unique, practical, and fun gifts for all ages! From backyard essentials to beauty picks, travel gear, kid-approved games, snacks, and must-read books—there’s something for everyone.
Love to Travel? So Do We!
Explore detailed family travel guides and itineraries from destinations including: Arizona, Boston, Long Island, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Iceland and Israel! Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming, I’ve got tips and recommendations for unforgettable, family-friendly vacations.
Feeling Nostalgic?
Check out these classic family movies from the ‘80s and ‘90s — perfect for cozy nights and sharing the timeless favorites you grew up loving with your kids!
📍Follow @themintchipmama on Instagram for real-life moments, parenting fun, perimenopause talk, beauty tips, food finds, and more.
Every click on one of The Mint Chip Mama’s affiliate links helps support this blog (and my serious taco habit). Accordingly, yes, I earn a small commission – just enough to cover that extra guac. 🌮💸


2 thoughts on “Engine, Engine, Number 9, on the Historic PA Railroad Transit Line…”