Philadelphia, PA
- If planning a vacation to Pennsylvania, you may want to check out some of its scenic train rides. There are several different routes, including those on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad, and the Middletown & Hummeltown Railroad. These rides provide an unforgettable way to see Pennsylvania's natural beauty.
Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad
If you've ever wished you could take a train ride through the beautiful countryside, Pennsylvania's Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad is a fantastic option. This scenic train ride runs over the Buffalo, New York & Philadelphia Railroad tracks, reorganized as the Western New York and Pennsylvania Railroad in 1887. In 1900, it was acquired by the Pennsylvania Railroad. In 1968, the railroad merged with New York Central and formed Penn Central. However, in 1976, Penn Central went bankrupt and was merged with Conrail. The Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad is located in Oil Creek State Park and offers scenic train rides through the park. During an excursion on the train, passengers can see the beautiful scenery of Oil Creek Valley and the wildlife.
You can also visit a museum to learn about the railroad's history, including train memorabilia displays and the town of Titusville. The Railroad is a historic train operating over 14 miles of track in Pennsylvania. It uses a diesel locomotive for power. The railway also offers special events like murder mystery dinner trains. If you're looking for something a little more unique, consider taking a trip to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, which operates vintage trolley cars.
Middletown & Hummeltown Railroad
The Middletown & Hummeltown Railroad, located in Middletown, PA, is a scenic train ride that will take you through the picturesque countryside. You'll see beautiful scenery and Swatara Creek during your journey. You'll also hear the narrator's commentary about the railroad's history. You can ride the train during the week, on weekends, and on holidays. The Middletown & Hummeltown Railroad, known locally as the Milk & Honey Line, features vintage trains that date back to the 1920s. During the ride, you'll hear the narration by a knowledgeable conductor highlighting the sites along the way. You can also enjoy special events like the Easter Bunny Express, "Sundae" Caboose Rides, and Pumpkin Patch Train Rides. If planning a group outing, mention your group's arrangements when booking your reservations.
Take in the scenery if you're traveling by train to Pennsylvania's historic sites. Train travel offers passengers a slower pace, ideal for relaxing and taking in the views. The best time to ride a train is during the fall when the vibrant fall foliage contrasts beautifully against the blue sky.
Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
Rides aboard the early 1900s diesel train follow the river past forests and sheer cliffs. The journey takes approximately two hours and takes in the scenery of the Lehigh Gorge. The scenic railway also offers a variety of other attractions, such as a gift shop and a restaurant. The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway features vintage coaches and diesel engines. It runs from Jim Thorpe into Lehigh Gorge State Park. Train rides are narrated and take passengers through the park and Lehigh Gorge. Special train excursions are offered throughout the year.
The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway departs at 1 Susquehanna St. and runs between Jim Thorpe and Old Penn Haven, through Lehigh River and Glen Onoko, as well as through Lehigh Gorge State Park. Excursions range in length, but the average one lasts 70 minutes. Guided tours are available, and the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is pet-friendly. The Railway is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The railroad has been operating in Jim Thorpe for 15 years. It is currently in a dispute with the Jim Thorpe Borough Council over the amusement tax. The railroad sued for the back taxes, but the Borough Council is confident that a deal can be struck.
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
A visit to the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic site is a wonderful way to get a taste of Pennsylvania's history. The railroad was a feat of engineering in its day and was the first railroad built through the Allegheny Mountains. Its construction shortened the lengthy journey across Pennsylvania by a significant amount. Today, the site is home to hands-on exhibits and full-scale models. The Allegheny Portage Railroad has 36 miles of incline railroad tracks. In addition to hauling goods and boats, the railroad also carried people. The engines pulled specially designed cars up the incline with rope. Once at the top of the incline, the horses led the cars down the next.
While in the area, be sure to visit the Twin Tunnels. These tunnels are the longest and highest tunnels on the former Pennsylvania Railroad. They were used during wartime by the Pennsylvania Railroad Police. The tunnels also feature a railroad museum and a PRR caboose. Also, take a stroll along the Main Line Canal Greenway, which follows the canal's path and features historic "hub" towns such as Hollidaysburg Canal Basin Park and Saltsburg Canal Park.
