Steamtown National Historic Site

"Fun with the Family"

Railroad buffs of all ages won’t want to miss Steamtown. Occupying fifty-two acres of a working railroad yard in downtown Scranton, Steamtown traces the history of railroading in the region and throughout the country. The structure, opened in 1995, includes a visitor center, a theater, an operating turntable, technology and history museums, a renovated roundhouse, and a museum store.
Watch the eighteen-minute film  Steel and Steam  to learn about the history of  American steam railroading. At the history museum meet the people (actually lifelike statues) who worked, used, and depended on the railroad. Visit the roundhouse to see several examples from the Steamtown collection of locomotives and railroad cars. Learn about locomotive design and railroad communications at the technology museum.
From Steamtown you can board a rail excursion along the Pocono Mainline or ride the Heritage Valley Station Stops on the former D&H Mainline ($$$ for adults, $$  for seniors and children) or to the historic Radisson Lackawanna Hotel (included in general admission). According to one park ranger, children are “glued to the window or fast asleep during these trips. Either way, it’s great for parents!” Call the park for current information and train schedules.
The Steamtown site is wheelchair accessible, and there are restrooms with changing tables. The excursion is accessible, but prior reservations are required. There are chemical toilets on the train, and snacks are available during a brief stop at Moscow.
After touring Steamtown, walk up the long ramp to the mall at Steamtown. (On rainy days, or when little ones are tired, it may be better to drive to the mall and park in the lot there.) There’s a food court with fast food for every taste. If you prefer a more leisurely dining experience, head downstairs, or into town where there are many restaurants to choose from.