My parents and I love to visit places in the National Park system, always searching for new adventures that allow us to connect with nature and history. Located about two hours from Doylestown is Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, PA, a gem hidden away that showcases the rich history of railroads in America. Prior to doing research on locations near Doylestown, I had never heard of Steamtown National Historic Site.
On our way to a charming house by a lake in Long Eddy, NY, we decided to stop and explore the historic site, eager to learn about the steam locomotives that once powered the nation’s industries. After we arrived at the historic site, I looked for a bathroom that was easily accessible for my parents. Unfortunately, the visitor center is under construction, so the bathrooms that are open are a little bit of a walk for them, making me realize how important it is to consider accessibility in all the places we visit. After you have traveled with those who aren’t as mobile, you begin to truly understand how much we overlook the needs of those with mobility issues. When I saw that the Electric City Trolley Station and Museum was located on the opposite side of the parking lot, I decided to see if they had a bathroom to use, hoping for a more convenient option. To my delight, they not only had restroom facilities but also a perfect setup for us to enjoy lunch amid the historical atmosphere. Located outside of the bathrooms are two charming bistro tables, providing a lovely spot to sit and take in the surroundings. Before touring the museum, we were able to eat lunch.
Trolley Station and Museum
After lunch and before we visited the Steamtown National Historic Site, we explored the Electric City Trolley Station and Museum, a vibrant place filled with history and nostalgia for the classic American trolley system. It was delightful to walk around with my parents, sharing stories and soaking in the atmosphere. There were several trolley cars from the Philadelphia area, each one carrying its own tales of the past. I was mentioning to my parents that I wonder if they rode any of these trolleys when they were in service, perhaps recalling fond memories of travel or adventure. As we wandered through the exhibits, I noticed a room specifically designed for kids to play games and explore, which also had a delightful toy train running along a track, captivating the younger visitors. You are able to climb up into a trolley, experiencing firsthand what it might have been like to travel in one of these iconic vehicles. Additionally, there are some trolleys that they are refurbishing, which is very cool to see, allowing us to witness the restoration process and the dedication involved in preserving this important part of transportation history. Overall, it was a day filled with discovery and shared experiences that reinforced the significance of our heritage.
Steamtown National Historic Site
After touring the Trolley Museum and enjoying a delightful lunch, I took a leisurely stroll around the expansive grounds of Steamtown National Historic Site, soaking in the rich history that surrounded me. I was thrilled to collect our stamps for the National Parks Passport Book, a unique souvenir that reflects our adventures. It was particularly wonderful that I had the opportunity to park the car conveniently, allowing my parents to fully immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the vintage trains on display. The sheer size and craftsmanship of these steam locomotives were mind-boggling, especially when I stood beside them, feeling their scale in a way that photographs could never truly convey. There are two rides available for visitors to experience, one of which is operated by the National Park Service and is famously known as the Scranton Limited; it’s a short yet enjoyable train ride that offers a glimpse into the past. While there was much to see and explore, including fascinating indoor exhibits, we unfortunately didn’t have enough time to delve into all of them, as we had promised ourselves we would arrive at our lake house in time for dinner. The rush only heightened our anticipation for the relaxation that awaited us at the lake, but I often find myself reminiscing about Steamtown and the adventure we had there.
Travel With Laughter 