Take a step back in history and ride the rails along the York County countryside. The 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 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. 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, a 45-minute steam train ride through scenic Lancaster County farmland is only the beginning! 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. It's a week-long gathering for train collectors, and the halls are open to the public on Friday and Saturday.