All aboard!! Take a step back in history and ride the rails along the beautiful York County countryside. The south central Pennsylvania area is a haven for train lovers and novices alike. Whether it is the machine that piques your interest or the experience, here are four local railways to check out!

Ma & Pa Railroad Preservation Society

Ma & Pa Railroad

Travel back to 1915 when the Ma & Pa Railroad was at the center of village life. Costumed interpreters welcome you to the M.M. Grove General Store, mill and grain elevator. Motorcar trains offer a five-mile trip through the scenic Muddy Creek Valley on the famous Ma & Pa Railroad. A wide variety of themed rides are scheduled throughout the year; check our online calendar of events for details. 

A train chugs down the tracks in Stewartstown.

Stewartstown Railroad Company

Home to the venerable "Mighty-Mo," a vintage 1943 Plymouth switcher locomotive, Stewartstown Railroad Company offers train rides in some of the most pastoral scenery in the northeastern United States. Along the meandering hills and wistful forests of the Deer Creek valley, enjoy a remarkable journey to a place and time thought long forgotten. Check our online calendar of events for details on special rides throughout the year. 

A steam engine makes it's way through a fall scene.

Northern Central Railway of York

Northern Central Railway of York chronicles historical events on the line of the same name. A wide variety of themed rides feature musicians, magicians, holiday and seasonal trains, superhero and princess tea parties, cowboy robberies, and historical reenactments. Visit our online calendar of events for dates and times and then reserve your seats. All Aboard!!!

Strasburg Train

Strasburg Rail Road

Just east of York County, Strasburg Rail Road offers a 45-minute steam train ride through scenic Lancaster County farmland. Stop for a picnic, try railroad activities at the station, tour the restored shop, relish a ride aboard First Class, or enjoy seasonal special events!

 

Plus:  World's Greatest Train Show

The Eastern Division Train Collectors of America hosts a train show in multiple buildings at the York Expo Center twice a year (in April and in October). It's a week-long gathering for train collectors, and the halls are open to the public on Friday and Saturday. Visit our calendar of events for details on the next show.

Start Planning Your Next Getaway to York County, PA

With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture, York County, PA, is the perfect destination for your next adventure. Whether you're exploring the charming streets of downtown York City or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the countryside, you'll find something to captivate your senses at every turn. 

Request a York County Travel Guide to start planning your getaway today. For additional travel inspiration delivered to your inbox twice a month, sign up for Explore York’s Getaway Guide emails, where there is also a chance to win a prize in every issue. We hope you’ll visit soon!