Train Rides and More: The Best Things to Do in Strasburg With Kids

Strasburg is a top destination in Lancaster County for good reason! With the historic Strasburg Railroad, tons of train-themed attractions, and the beautiful Amish countryside, there are plenty of things to do in Strasburg and nearby for families.

We love visiting this area of Pennsylvania, and you will too. Whether you want to spend time outside on a farm or learn about railroad history, Strasburg will keep you entertained.

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Things To Do In Strasburg, PA and Nearby

Thanks to the Strasburg Railroad, Strasburg is a popular activity in Lancaster County. But there are other things to do near Strasburg, especially for those who enjoy trains! Keep in mind that many of the places included on this list are open seasonally. They typically close for the winter months.

Take a Ride on the Strasburg Railroad

301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572

The Strasburg Railroad is a huge draw for families from all over, especially at Christmastime! Their Santa train rides are extremely popular, and families will drive over an hour to ride in their historic cars through the Amish countryside.

people stand on a train platform waiting to board the strasburg railroad holiday train

Of course, you probably already know about the train ride and are looking for more things to do near Strasburg Railroad. Don’t worry – we’ve got plenty of options below.

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

300 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579

One of the closest things to do near the Strasburg Railroad is the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, directly across the street.

View of the entrance to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Visitors can explore several real trains on display, including steam and diesel engines and many passenger cars.

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is open Wednesday through Sunday, with various hours. Admission ranges from $8 to $10, depending on age, and children under two are FREE to visit.

Enjoy the National Toy Train Museum

300 Paradise Ln, Ronks, PA 17572

More train fun can be found at the National Toy Train Museum!

It is perfect for kids and adults who love playing with trains, thanks to the multiple interactive train layouts that include brands like Lionel and LEGO. They also have an extensive library on-site to help you discover and learn about the best toy train!

The National Toy Train Museum has limited operating hours. It’s open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends in April, September, and October. Admission ranges from $5.50-$8.50, depending on age. Children under four are FREE.

Choo Choo Barn Model Train Display

226 Gap Rd, Strasburg, PA 17579

If you love model train displays, you will love the Choo Choo Barn!

Although it’s not as big as displays like Northlandz in New Jersey, we still think it’s pretty incredible. The attention to detail is *chef’s kiss*. I personally love that they change from day to night, and all of the cars light up!

view of a model train display at the choo choo barn

The Choo Choo Barn is open seasonally, starting in March, with varying hours. Kids cost $6, and adults cost $10 for admission. Your admission is good for the day, so you can visit and then come back again!

Village Greens Miniature Golf

1444 Village Road, Strasburg, PA  17579

This might be one of the most beautiful miniature golf courses out there!

Village Greens Miniature Golf has two courses set on 13 acres with tons of plants and trees surrounding it. The Orange course is more traditional, with features like a covered bridge and tobacco shed. The Gold course incorporates more natural obstacles. Either one you choose, you can’t go wrong!

Village Greens is open seasonally, typically from the end of March through October. Visit their website for pricing and hours.

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm

150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is a destination all in itself! You can spend a full day here and still not have done everything they have to offer. This is a very popular thing to do in Lancaster County with kids, especially in the fall.

If you are taking a train ride on the Strasburg Railroad, you’ll pass by the farm, so you can check it out before you visit. Just keep in mind that Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is only open from the end of May into November, with days varying depending on the season.

Old Windmill Farm

262 Paradise Lane Ronks, PA 17572

While you’re in the heart of Amish County, why not tour an Amish Farm?

The Old Windmill Farm offers one-hour tours where you can learn about life on the farm, including feeding the animals and milking cows, as you ride around on a wagon.

Tours are offered on select days throughout the year. Visit their website for the best information.

Dutch Wonderland

2249 E Lincoln Hwy, Lancaster, PA 17602

We can’t have a list of things to do near Strasburg without including Dutch Wonderland. Although you might want to dedicate a full day to the park thanks to all of the rides and attractions there have. But you could make it part of a fun weekend!

Dutch Wonderland is open seasonally, with hours and days varying. Ticket prices depend on the guest’s age and the day you visit.

Places to Eat Near Strasburg

Casey Jones’ Restaurant

Located at the famous Red Caboose Motel, Casey Jones’ Restaurant will allow you to keep the train theme going. With options like chicken parmesan, meatloaf, and hamburgers, it has a varied menu that will suit any appetite.

Fireside Tavern

Cozy and comfortable is the best way to describe Fireside Tavern. Offering typical American fare like tomato bisque, crab cakes, and shepherd’s pie, the restaurant offers tasty options in a relaxed atmosphere.

Bespoke Brewing

A brewery with good eats in the same shopping center as the Choo Choo Barn and a two-minute drive to the Strasburg Railroad. Bespoke Brewing is the perfect spot to eat before or after your train ride! They offer typical pub fare like wings and burgers, but also salads.

Other Things to Do in Lancaster County

Strasburg is just one area of gorgeous Lancaster County. We’ve enjoyed many of the area’s activities, including the fabulous hiking along the Conestoga Trail and the sweet Turkey Hill Experience in Columbia.

There are so many fabulous things to do in Strasburg and nearby to maximize your day trip or weekend in this Lancaster County gem

Lauren
Lauren

Lauren is the visionary behind Where the Wild Kids Wander. She is a travel enthusiast who lives outside of Philadelphia. For more than a decade, she's been hitting the road, exploring the nooks and crannies of the United States alongside her family. Her passions include visiting big cities and small towns and trekking through nature's trails. She loves sharing those adventures with fellow travelers.