There’s just something magical about an old train ride.
The sound of the whistle, the clickety-clack of the tracks, and the way time seems to slow down.
In Pennsylvania, you don’t have to imagine it, you can actually hop aboard and experience it for yourself.
From steam engines that puff through the countryside to vintage coaches rolling past rivers, forests, and tiny towns that look straight out of the 1800s, these train rides are the real deal.
If you’re ready for epic views, cool old trains, and a serious step back in time, these 8 scenic rides are calling your name.
1. Strasburg Rail Road
Strasburg Rail Road in Lancaster County is the oldest continuously operating railroad in America, and it’s been chugging along since 1832.
You can hop on a real steam train and ride through rolling Amish farmland, complete with red barns, grazing horses, and cornfields that go on forever.
The trains themselves are vintage beauties with wooden coaches, open-air cars, and even a first-class parlor if you wanna feel extra fancy.
There’s also a train shop, a fun little cafe, and special themed rides like the Great Train Robbery or Day Out With Thomas if you’re bringing the kiddos.
2. West Chester Railroad
Just 45-minutes outside Philly, the West Chester Railroad brings all the nostalgic charm.
This one’s a diesel-powered ride that cruises between West Chester and Glen Mills, winding through woodsy landscapes, old stone bridges, and leafy tunnels.
The train cars have big windows perfect for soaking in the views, and they run seasonal events like the Fall Foliage Express and Santa’s Polar Express.
It’s less about farmland and more about forests, so if you’re into cozy countryside scenes and peaceful vibes, this one’s calling your name.
Just a heads-up: the train usually pauses operations during winter and typically resumes from May through December so be sure to check their official website for the schedule.
3. Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad
If you’re looking for mountain scenes and old coal town views, the Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad totally delivers.
This ride takes you up into the heart of northeastern Pennsylvania, with trips rolling through places like Jim Thorpe which is a scenic storybook town.
You’ll ride in classic passenger cars behind powerful diesel locomotives, gliding past deep valleys, winding rivers, and old mining sites that still look as they did long ago.
Plus, some routes even offer dome cars with glass ceilings so you can literally look up and watch the trees and sky float by.
4. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Next up is the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, and this one’s all about jaw-dropping nature views from the comfort of a vintage train.
It leaves right from downtown Jim Thorpe and rolls into the Lehigh Gorge State Park, hugging the river and cutting through steep cliffs and lush forest.
The open-air cars are a total win in the fall when the leaves turn orange, and in the summer, it’s all about breezy rides with views of waterfalls and rocky outcrops.
It’s short, sweet, and seriously stunning so it’s perfect if you want epic scenery without committing to a whole day on the rails.
5. The Stourbridge Line
The Stourbridge Line is your go-to if you want a laid-back ride through river valleys and charming small towns in the Pocono Mountains.
Departing from Honesdale, this train rolls along the Lackawaxen River with views that switch between forested hills, open meadows, and tiny historic stations that look frozen in time.
You’ll ride in a cozy vintage coach that’s pulled by a classic diesel engine, and the crew’s always full of fun facts and stories that bring the route to life.
They’ve even got themed events like wine-tasting rides and fall leaf tours, so whether you’re into history or just here for the ride, there’s something to love.
6. East Broad Top Railroad
If you’re all about history and old-school trains, the East Broad Top Railroad is like stepping into a living museum on wheels.
Located in Rockhill Furnace, this narrow-gauge steam train has been lovingly restored and rumbles past old iron mines and crumbling stone structures from the 1870s.
The whole place feels like a time capsule with original roundhouses, vintage railcars, and even a trolley ride that zips around the station grounds.
It’s a blast from the industrial past, perfect for train nerds and curious explorers.
Please note that the East Broad Top Railroad’s operating season is from early May through late October, with special events occurring year-round (including President’s Day Weekend, Easter, Halloween, and Christmas) so be sure to check online before planning your trip.
7. Everett Railroad
Down in Blair County, the Everett Railroad keeps things cozy and classic with steam and diesel trains that chug through peaceful farmland and tree-lined hills.
The ride starts in Hollidaysburg and takes you through rolling fields, old wooden trestles, and sweet little spots that feel like forgotten postcards.
It’s a favorite for themed events like their Easter Bunny trains, Pumpkin Patch runs, and festive holiday rides with cookies and cocoa.
If you’re into small-town charm and love the sound of a steam whistle echoing through the countryside, this one’s got your name written all over it.
8. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad
And finally, the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad is where trains meet oil boom history in the most scenic way possible.
This vintage diesel train rolls through the Oil Creek Valley, right where the first commercial oil well in the world struck black gold back in 1859.
Along the way, you’ll pass old derricks, replica pump jacks, and forest-covered hills that turn golden in the fall—it’s like riding through a history book with better views.
There’s even an open-air car and a caboose you can ride in, so whether you’re geeking out on history or just here for the scenery, this ride is pure gold.
Please be aware that regular rides on the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad run from mid-June through October, they also offer fun special events in May, July, and December, so be sure to check their official website for the latest schedule!
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