Steamtown National Historic Site
Explore America's rich railroad history with massive steam locomotives, exhibits, and rides in a former rail yard. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Steamtown National Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore America's rich railroad history with massive steam locomotives, exhibits, and rides in a former rail yard. Free admission!
"This place was loaded with all kinds of history. This may be the best preserved site in America dedicated to the railroad."
🎯 Free Admission Perks
General admission is free! Consider the small fee for train rides for the full experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the expansive historic site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Union Pacific "Big Boy" No. 4012
Outdoor display area
Marvel at one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, a true giant of American railroading.
The Roundhouse & Turntable
Rail yard
Witness the heart of the historic railroad yard, where massive locomotives are maintained and moved.
Restoration Workshops
Behind-the-scenes tours
Get a fascinating glimpse into how these historic steam engines are brought back to life by dedicated staff.
Steamtown Railfest
Various locations within the site
Experience the annual celebration of all things trains with rides, demonstrations, and special exhibits.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Paid Rides
Plan for a Full Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Perks
General admission is free! Consider the small fee for train rides for the full experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the expansive historic site.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Easily spend half a day or more exploring the locomotives and exhibits.
🗺️ Check the Map First
The site is large and can be a bit confusing; grab a map to navigate efficiently.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Perks
General admission is free! Consider the small fee for train rides for the full experience.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the expansive historic site.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Easily spend half a day or more exploring the locomotives and exhibits.
🗺️ Check the Map First
The site is large and can be a bit confusing; grab a map to navigate efficiently.
📸 Don't Miss the Big Boy
This massive locomotive is a must-see and often parked outside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Steamtown National Historic Site for its impressive collection of locomotives and its free admission. The knowledgeable and friendly staff enhance the experience, with many highlighting the fascinating restoration work and the enjoyable train rides. Some find the site layout a bit confusing initially, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive for history buffs and families alike.
"I’ve been to Steamtown now 3 times. The NPS staff and Rangers are always extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. Plenty of Parking, easy to get to with GPS. Museum inside is awesome, outside displays are unique. There are usually daily rides on one of trains, and occasionally longer excursions for a price."
Steve Bergerj
"Great museum we decided to visit spur of the moment. No admission but we did pay $6 a person for a short ride into town and back. So many beautiful engines and train cars from various companies. The staff are so polite and everyone we spoke to was eager to share their knowledge. I was very impressed with cleanliness of the place and you can see that this museum is well cared for. We did not take the short walk to the trolley museum located across from the train yard but we are planning of visiting again in the near future."
A. “BackSeatRider” W.
"Amazing Place to visit while in Scranton PA! Very kid friendly, and interesting for the whole family. You can pay for a ticket to ride their trolley and train ride, which explains the history of the area. There is also the turntable + roundhouse museum, which houses lots of relics and trains, all of which is free to see. Overall an amazing place to stop by whenever you have free time, plus it's a short walk over the bridge to the Steamtown Marketplace & Trolly Museum!"
Mike Lamb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Steamtown NHS is located in downtown Scranton, PA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available within Scranton.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the site. Some may have fees, so it's good to check local parking regulations.
Absolutely! Scranton is a popular stop for those interested in industrial history and train enthusiasts. Consider combining it with other local attractions.
Downtown Scranton is walkable, and Steamtown NHS is centrally located. For exploring further, consider ride-sharing services or local buses.
Yes, the Electric Trolley Museum is located across the street and is often visited in conjunction with Steamtown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Steamtown National Historic Site is FREE! However, there is a small fee for the scenic train rides.
For general admission, no advance tickets are needed as it's free. For special events like Railfest or specific train rides, it's advisable to check the official website for booking information.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Typically, the site is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but it's always best to check the official NPS website for the most current hours.
Steamtown NHS generally operates year-round, but hours may be reduced during certain seasons or holidays. Always verify current operating status before your visit.
General admission is always free. Special event pricing may apply during festivals like Railfest.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can explore a vast collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives, walk through the roundhouse, see restoration work in progress, and learn about American railroad history. +1
Yes, Steamtown offers short, scenic train rides on a historic locomotive for a small fee. These are very popular!
Yes, guided tours are often available and provide in-depth information about the site and its collection. Some tours may take you behind the scenes.
Absolutely! Kids are often fascinated by the massive trains and the history. The train rides are a big hit with younger visitors.
The Union Pacific 'Big Boy' No. 4012 is one of the largest and most powerful steam locomotives ever built, and it's a star attraction at Steamtown.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full-service restaurant on-site, there is a park store that may offer snacks and drinks. It's recommended to bring your own or explore nearby downtown Scranton eateries.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas, but check specific park rules. Bringing your own food is a great way to save money.
Downtown Scranton has a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. You can also find unique spots like Black Cow Cookies & Cream for a treat.
Yes, Scranton offers many family-friendly restaurants. Ask locals or check online reviews for recommendations based on your preferences.
Scranton has a diverse culinary scene. You'll find classic American fare, Italian specialties, and local diners.
📸 📸 Photography
The roundhouse, the turntable area, and the massive locomotives like the 'Big Boy' offer incredible photo opportunities. The rail yard itself provides a dramatic backdrop.
Yes, photography is generally encouraged for personal use. Be mindful of any restricted areas or signs.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check with site staff if unsure.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic conditions.
Yes, you can often see the restoration work happening. Guided tours might offer closer access and insights into this process.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The short train rides are a definite highlight, offering an exciting experience that kids will talk about long after the visit. Look for opportunities to see the restoration work happening on the trains, as this can be fascinating for curious young minds.
The roundhouse and turntable also provide a sense of the scale and mechanics of these machines. While the site is large, it's generally easy to navigate with strollers, and the staff are known for being friendly and engaging with younger visitors. 🚂 Train Enthusiasts
You'll find a diverse array of steam and diesel engines, each representing different eras and railroad companies. The working turntable and roundhouse offer a deep dive into operational aspects of railroading. Don't miss the chance to take a historic train ride; it's an authentic experience that connects you to the past.
Keep an eye out for special events like Railfest, which often brings in visiting locomotives and additional activities. +1Budget Travelers
+1 This allows you to explore a significant historical site without any entry cost. The only expense you might consider is the small fee for the scenic train rides, which many find well worth the price for the experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Steamtown NHS
The collection was later moved to Scranton, Pennsylvania, in 1984, and officially designated a National Historic Site in 1986. It stands as a testament to the crucial role railroads played in the nation's Industrial Revolution, showcasing not only the powerful machines but also the stories of the people who operated and maintained them.The site is built on the former Scranton yards of the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, retaining much of its original industrial character. Visitors can explore a working turntable and roundhouse, essential components of early railroad operations.
The collection includes a diverse range of locomotives and rolling stock from various railroads, representing different eras and types of service. This commitment to preservation ensures that future generations can learn from and appreciate this vital part of American history.Steamtown NHS is more than just a museum; it's a living history experience. Through exhibits, demonstrations, and the operation of historic trains, the site brings the golden age of steam to life. It highlights the engineering marvels, the economic impact, and the cultural significance of railroads in shaping the United States.
+1Experiencing the Locomotives
This colossal machine, a 4-8-8-4 type, was constructed in 1941 and served the Union Pacific Railroad hauling heavy freight. Standing before it, visitors can truly grasp the scale and power of these iron giants. Beyond the 'Big Boy,' Steamtown boasts a variety of other significant locomotives, each with its own story and historical context. You can see engines that served in different capacities, from freight hauling to passenger service, and from various railroad companies across the country.
+1 The site also features diesel-electric locomotives, showcasing the transition in rail technology. The roundhouse and turntable are central to the experience, allowing visitors to see how these massive machines were housed, serviced, and maneuvered. For an even more immersive experience, consider taking one of the short train rides offered. These rides, usually pulled by a historic locomotive, provide a unique perspective of the rail yard and the surrounding area.
The restoration workshops offer a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous work involved in keeping these historic engines operational. Scranton's Rail Heritage
The site's very existence is a testament to the city's industrial past and its pivotal role in the development of American transportation.The history of railroading in Scranton is intertwined with the region's coal mining and industrial boom. The railroads were essential for transporting coal and manufactured goods, making Scranton a vital hub. The site showcases this history through its extensive collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and exhibits that detail the evolution of rail technology and its impact on the community.
Visitors can learn about the people who worked on the railroads – engineers, conductors, mechanics – and understand their contributions to the nation's growth.Beyond Steamtown NHS, the city itself offers further glimpses into its electric and rail past. The nearby Electric Trolley Museum provides a complementary experience, focusing on the development of electric streetcars and their influence on urban development.
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