Discover the Amish culture and old-fashioned charm of this quaint town, best known as eastern Pennsylvania’s railroad center.
Known as “Train Town USA,” Strasburg has numerous railroad-related attractions. Within town, find delightful shops, cozy inns, brick-paved streets and lovely 18th-century homes exuding an atmosphere of centuries past. Venture into the surrounding countryside to visit scenic Amish farmlands.
Ride on the Strasburg Rail Road, which has chugged along the route from Strasburg to Paradise since 1832. Touted as America’s oldest short line, the train has wooden coaches that have been beautifully restored with antique brass lamps, rich burgundy seats and stained glass.
Across from the Strasburg Rail Road, find the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania and Railway Education Center. Housed inside are 13 enormous engines, each built between 1888 and 1930, as well as a Pullman sleeper car. Try the simulation of a freight locomotive cab and discover exhibits dedicated to the history of Pennsylvania’s railroads.
Investigate the intricate displays in the Choo Choo Barn. This 1,700-square-foot (160-square-meter) space holds a miniature depiction of Lancaster County, consisting of more than 150 animated scenes. Look for a blazing house fire being put out with real water, as well as a three-ring circus with animals and acrobats.
Check out the extensive collection at the National Toy Train Museum, which exhibits hundreds of toy trains and cars dating back as far as the 1800s. Try to spot popular brands among the models, including American Flyer and Marklin.
Tour an authentic Amish home in the Amish Village. After inspecting the home’s interior, look inside the village’s blacksmith shop and the operating smokehouse built by Amish craftsmen. In the summer, stop by the one-room schoolhouse to learn about Amish education. This attraction charges a fee.
Be sure to sample the town’s distinct Pennsylvania Dutch-style cuisine. Savor a hearty chicken corn soup with a diced hard-cooked egg or a shoofly piemade with butter and molasses.
Strasburg is located in southern Lancaster County. It’s best to come by car, so you’ll have the freedom to explore the surrounding countryside.
