Steamtown National Historic Site

Steamtown National Historic Site is located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This 62-acre site preserves and showcases the history of steam railroading in the United States. It was established in 1986 as a way to educate and engage visitors about the significance of steam locomotives in shaping the nation's transportation industry.

The historic background of Steamtown National Historic Site dates back to the mid-19th century when the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad (DL&W) played a pivotal role in the development of northeastern Pennsylvania's coal mining industry. This railroad was instrumental in the transportation of anthracite coal from the nearby mines to cities and industries across the country. The DL&W steam locomotive shops were once a bustling hub of activity where the railroad's engines were repaired, rebuilt, and maintained.

Today, visitors to Steamtown National Historic Site can explore the museum's collection of steam locomotives, passenger cars, and other artifacts that showcase the rich history of railroading in America. The centerpiece of the site is the restored roundhouse, which houses a variety of locomotives representing different eras of steam railroading. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the technology and engineering behind these massive machines that were once the lifeblood of the nation's transportation system.

In addition to the steam locomotive exhibits, Steamtown offers a range of activities for visitors. There are opportunities to ride on vintage steam and diesel-powered trains, providing a unique experience and a chance to see the beautiful countryside of northeastern Pennsylvania. The site also has a theater where informative films about the history of steam railroading are shown throughout the day. For those interested in the inner workings of steam engines, special demonstrations and programs are available, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the engineering marvels of these impressive machines.

Apart from exploring Steamtown National Historic Site, visitors can also take advantage of nearby attractions. Lackawanna County Coal Mine Tour provides an opportunity to descend 300 feet below the Earth's surface and learn about the region's coal mining heritage. Also, the Electric City Trolley Museum displays a fascinating collection of vintage trolleys and offers rides on restored electric streetcars. The nearby Montage Mountain offers recreational activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and water parks, providing a perfect complement to a visit to Steamtown.

Overall, Steamtown National Historic Site stands as a tribute to the era of steam railroading and its impact on American history. With its well-preserved exhibits, informative tours, and various activities, it offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors seeking to learn about the fascinating world of steam locomotives and the vital role they played in shaping transportation in the United States.

Steamtown National Historic Site is located in the heart of northeastern Pennsylvania, in Lackawanna County. Nestled in the city of Scranton, this historic site spans over 62 acres and is situated in a valley surrounded by picturesque hills and rolling mountains. The location of Steamtown National Historic Site offers breathtaking views of the natural beauty that Pennsylvania has to offer. Its proximity to major transportation routes, such as Interstates 81 and 84, allows for easy access to visitors, making it a prime destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Address & Contact

350 Cliff Street
Scranton, PA 18503
Driving Directions
Phone: (570) 445-1898
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Steamtown National Historic Site would be in the months of May, June, or September. These months offer pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is around 3.5 to 4.2 inches, providing a comfortable environment for outdoor activities. Furthermore, visitor counts during these months are moderately high, allowing for a decent crowd size without being overly crowded.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Steamtown National Historic Site are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Topics

Learn about these topics at Steamtown National Historic Site: Arts Industry Transportation Photography Trains and Railroads

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center and Park Store

The Visitor Center is open daily 9:30 am to 5 pm. The info booth at the front of the park is the primary contact point for park rangers, information, junior ranger activities, and train tickets. The park store is open daily from 9:30 am to 4:45 pm. The NPS Passport stamps are available in the park store.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center and Park Store.

Campsites within or near Steamtown National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Steamtown National Historic Site

Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton

A stay at Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton places you in the heart of Scranton, steps from Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau and 4 minutes by foot from University of Scranton. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 138 Jefferson Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503
Web: Link

Courtyard by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre

Located in Moosic, Courtyard by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre is within a 5-minute drive of PNC Field and Boomer. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available on request).
Address: 16 Glenmaura National Blvd, Moosic, Pennsylvania 18507
Web: Link

Red Carpet Inn and Suites Scranton

A stay at Red Carpet Inn and Suites Scranton places you in the heart of Scranton, steps from Lackawanna River and 7 minutes by foot from The Mall at Steamtown. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 320 Franklin Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503
Web: Link

Econo Lodge Scranton near Montage Mountain

A stay at Econo Lodge Scranton near Montage Mountain places you in the heart of Scranton, a 4-minute drive from PNC Field and 5 minutes from Boomer. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1175 Kane St, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18505
Web: Link

Comfort Suites Scranton near Montage Mountain

A stay at Comfort Suites Scranton near Montage Mountain places you in the heart of Moosic, within a 5-minute drive of PNC Field and Boomer. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 44 Montage Mountain Rd, Moosic, Pennsylvania 18507
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Scranton at Montage Mountain

Located in Moosic, Hampton Inn Scranton at Montage Mountain is a 3-minute drive from PNC Field and 5 minutes from Everhart Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Moosic? This hotel has facilities measuring 432 square feet (40 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 22 Montage Mountain Rd, Moosic, Pennsylvania 18507
Web: Link

Four Points by Sheraton Scranton

A stay at Four Points by Sheraton Scranton places you in the heart of Scranton, within a 5-minute drive of Everhart Museum and University of Scranton. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 300 Meadow Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18505
Web: Link

Hilton Scranton & Conference Center

With a stay at Hilton Scranton & Conference Center, you'll be centrally located in Scranton, steps from Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau and within a 10-minute walk of University of Scranton. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Scranton? This hotel has facilities measuring 18000 square feet (1672 square meters), including a conference center. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 100 Adams Ave, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18503
Web: Link

Sleep Inn & Suites Scranton Dunmore

Located in Dunmore, Sleep Inn & Suites Scranton Dunmore is in the suburbs, a 3-minute drive from Lackawanna River and 6 minutes from Marywood University. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Dunmore? This hotel has facilities measuring 625 square feet (58 square meters), including a meeting room. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available on request).
Address: 102 Monahan Ave, Dunmore, Pennsylvania 18512
Web: Link

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre

Located in Moosic, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Scranton Wilkes-Barre is within a 5-minute drive of Boomer and Cannonball. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 19 Radcliffe Dr, Moosic, Pennsylvania 18507
Web: Link