The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg preserves the state’s railroad history through historic locomotives, railroad cars and related exhibits. It’s about a 9-minute drive from Dutch Wonderland Inn near Lancaster, making it a practical Lancaster-area stop to plan during your stay.
- Location: 300 Gap Road, PA Route 741, Strasburg, PA 17579
- Displays: Locomotives and railroad cars from the mid-19th and 20th centuries, plus artifacts and photographs
- Typical hours: open 24 hours
- Admission: $10 for adults ages 12–64; other rates vary by age
What the museum has on display
The museum’s collection brings Pennsylvania railroad history into view through full-size equipment and supporting exhibits. Its mission is to preserve and interpret that history and explain how railroads have shaped the nation and daily life.
The museum displays 100 locomotives and railroad cars dating from the mid-19th and 20th centuries, including the Pennsylvania Railroad Historical Collection. Many of the nearly 100 pieces are housed in a 100,000-square-foot exhibit hall; additional equipment is kept outside in the Train Yard.
Beyond the rail equipment, you’ll find railroad artifacts, artwork, books, photographs and corporate railroad material. The museum map identifies an Orientation Gallery, Exhibit Gallery, Model Railroad Exhibit, Art Gallery, Museum Store and hands-on experiences. Educational programs for all ages, tours, special events and a railway education center add more ways to engage with the subject.
How should you plan time for the exhibits?
Use the museum’s gallery layout to shape your visit, then check which supervised experiences are available before you arrive. The main exhibit hall holds much of the large equipment, while the map’s other named areas include the Model Railroad Exhibit and Art Gallery.
Most locomotives and rail cars are not generally open to visitors because of safety and preservation concerns. Staff- or volunteer-supervised access to some interiors may occasionally be available, but it is not guaranteed.
A special behind-the-scenes Restoration Shop tour is normally offered for an additional fee at 12:00 p.m. on most days, subject to conditions and staff availability. Call the museum ahead to confirm whether it is running. The Train Yard is closed to general browsing during the Roundhouse construction phase, although tours are frequently offered; call ahead about availability.
What are the museum hours and admission prices?
Last entry is at 3:30 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults ages 12–64, $9 for seniors 65 and older, $8 for youth ages 3–11, and free for children age 2 and under.
Groups of 10 or more adults should call for rates. Tickets are generally valid for the entire day of purchase during regular business hours, and you may return after leaving if you keep your receipt.
Hours, admission and special-event details can change, so check the official site before you go.
How do you get to the museum and navigate visitor access?
The museum is at 300 Gap Road, on PA Route 741 in Strasburg. Accessible parking is available in the main lot on the east side and in the semicircle driveway on the west side; the west-side driveway can also be used for drop-off and pick-up.
The museum welcomes visitors who need special assistance. If you may need help, call ahead to discuss arrangements, since access to some areas or exhibits can depend on safety, staffing and preservation factors. Service animals, including service animals in training, are permitted under federal and state policies; entry for emotional-support animals is at staff discretion.
The main indoor public spaces are climate-controlled year-round. Food and beverages are not permitted in the main exhibit areas; vending machines for snacks and drinks are in the designated area on Platform 5 West beside the Train Yard entrance.
What can you pair with a museum visit?
For a different kind of Lancaster-area outing, the Historic Rock Ford Plantation visit guide covers a local history stop.
The Strasburg Rail Road is directly across the street from the museum. It is privately operated as a separate entity, so check its information separately when planning your day.
Families planning another attraction can also use this practical guide to Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster.
FAQs
Where is the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania?
It is at 300 Gap Road, PA Route 741, Strasburg, PA 17579.
Can you go inside the historic rail cars?
Most locomotives and rail cars are not generally open to visitors. Occasional supervised interior access may be available, but it cannot be guaranteed.
Is the Strasburg Rail Road part of the museum?
No. The Strasburg Rail Road is directly across the street and is privately operated as a separate entity.