The Pennsylvania Town That's Perfect For A Train-Themed Day Trip
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
All aboard! Is there any better sound than the sound of a train whistle in the distance? Discover the magic of the railroad when you visit this Pennsylvania town that’s perfect for a train-themed day trip. The tiny town of Ronks, home to less than 400, boasts the National Toy Train Museum, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and Strasburg Railroad. And, that’s just the beginning.
Discover the magic of the miniature railroad at The Choo Choo Barn. The 1,700 square foot miniature train has delighted visitors since it opened in 1961. Watch as 22 miniature trains chug around the track that boasts 150 different figures and vehicles, all hand-built and animated. The Choo Choo Barn is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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The National Toy Train Museum has earned recognition for housing one of the world's largest toy train collections. Explore the trains in the museum, discovering that the oldest train on display dates back to 1840. Many of the exhibits can be operated by visitors with a push of a button. Hours to the National Toy Train Museum depend upon the day and the month.
Explore more than 100,000 square feet of exhibits indoors then go outdoors to the Train Yard for more at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. Home to 100 railroad cars, the museum features collections of diesel locomotives, steam locomotives, and passenger cars. (And, that's just the beginning.) The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania welcomes guests Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. from November through March. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. from April through October.
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All that exploring model, toy, and vintage trains just might have you yearning for a train ride right about now. Head across the street from the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania to the Strasburg Railroad. The railroad offers both scenic train rides and special events. Scenic rides typically last 45 minutes. Special events include the Great Train Robbery and a Day Out With Thomas (the Train).
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What's a train-themed day trip without a meal in a restored train car? Casey Jones' Restaurant, part of the Red Caboose Motel, promises a delightful meal in an unforgettable setting. Sit down for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Popular lunch dishes include burgers, sandwiches, Shepherd's Pie, and salads. A kids' menu is also available. Casey Jones' Restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday's hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Ready to head home after an eventful day? Or, perhaps you'd rather kick back, relax, and spend the night at the Red Caboose Motel. The motel, comprised of restored rail cars, promises an unforgettable experience. Book your night in a caboose in advance by calling 717-687-5000.
Ronks is perhaps the perfect Pennsylvania town for those who love trains. Wine connoisseur? Then, this wine and cheese train aboard the Strasburg Railroad might just be the perfect fit for you.
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Featured Addresses
312 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA 17572
301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572
300 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572
300 Paradise Lane, Ronks, PA 17572
226 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579