Strasburg Rail Road Shop Tour — Strasburg, Pennsylvania

Discover the Strasburg Rail Road Shop Tour in Pennsylvania

Step behind the scenes of America’s oldest continuously operating short-line railroad with the Strasburg Rail Road Shop Tour in Strasburg, Pennsylvania. This immersive, guided experience takes visitors inside the working shops where historic steam locomotives and passenger cars are restored and maintained. You’ll see the blacksmith forge, machine shop, and car shop in action — and discover what it takes to keep 100-year-old steam engines running on time.

Why it’s special: Strasburg Rail Road has been operating since 1832 and remains a living example of railroading’s golden age. The shop tour gives train lovers a rare insider’s look at authentic steam technology still in daily operation — combining craftsmanship, history, and innovation in one unforgettable experience.

History/Story of the Strasburg Rail Road

Founded in 1832, the Strasburg Rail Road began as a short-line freight and passenger carrier connecting the rural Lancaster County community to the larger Pennsylvania Railroad. By the 1950s, the line was nearly abandoned — until a group of rail enthusiasts rescued it, restoring its locomotives and preserving its heritage. Today, Strasburg Rail Road operates both as a tourist attraction and a full-service mechanical shop that restores vintage steam engines for clients across the world.

What You’ll See & Do on the Strasburg Rail Road Shop Tour

• Visit the Machine Shop, where steam engine components are repaired and built by hand

• Watch the Blacksmith Forge in action, shaping metal using traditional methods

• See the Boiler Shop and learn how craftsmen maintain century-old technology

• Tour the Carpentry & Paint Shop, where passenger cars are restored to original beauty

• Explore the working Roundhouse and learn how locomotives are maintained and turned

Hands-On Elements: Observation-based guided tour with opportunities to meet working craftsmen and ask questions.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in designated safe zones.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop featuring railroad memorabilia, model trains, and apparel.

Pricing of the Strasburg Rail Road Shop Tour

Guided Shop Tour Admission:

• Adults (12+): $22

• Children (4–11): $15

• Children under 4: Free

Combo Tickets: Available for train rides + shop tours at discounted rates.
Group Tours: Available by reservation for schools, historical societies, and railfan groups.

Practical Info for Visiting Strasburg Rail Road

Duration: 60–75 minutes
Format: Guided walking tour through active restoration shops
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; daily tours at select times (check online calendar)
Audience: Families, train enthusiasts, students, and industrial history fans
Accessibility: Partially accessible (some shop areas have uneven floors)
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes required; protective eyewear provided
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Educational group programs available by request
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and curiosity for machinery
Facilities: Gift shop, café, restrooms, parking, and picnic area
Closures & Downtime: Closed on major holidays and during special maintenance

Nearby

• Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania — directly across the street; features historic locomotives

• Choo Choo Barn — miniature train layout attraction nearby

• Kitchen Kettle Village — local crafts, jams, and food shops in Intercourse, PA

FAQs About Visiting the Strasburg Rail Road Shop Tour

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Yes — space is limited, and advance reservations are recommended.

Can I take a train ride the same day?
Yes — visitors can combine the Shop Tour with any scenic train ride experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children ages 4 and up are welcome with adult supervision.

Can I take photos in the shop?
Yes, but for safety, photos are limited to designated areas only.

Is the shop tour wheelchair accessible?
Some areas are accessible, though the historic layout limits access to a few sections.