I would like to take my grandchildren on a steam excursion train ride this summer. Does anyone know of any within the SE Penna. (New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland) area? I know there is one in Strausburg, PA. Any others?
New Hope and Ivyland just to the north of Philly in Bucks Co, Pa and the Wilmington and Western in New Castle Co. De. both about one hour’s drive from center city.
You might also want to consider Steamtown in Scranton. I know it is farther but should have a lot more for the kids than either of the tourist lines mentioned.
Steamtown is, however, the least [:(]railfan friendly excursion[:(!] operation I have ever been on. I will not go back there unless there was a truly unique event, that could not happen anywhere else, like K4s 1361 or B&M P4 3713 being fired up and running. Even then I’d catch them out on the road rather than ride behind them.
There’s also the Wannamaker, Kempton, and Southern (Hawk Mountain Line) in PA
http://www.kemptontrain.com/pages/741740/index.htm
Black River and Western in Ringoes, NJ
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland MD
These and many more are listed in the Tourist Train Guide published in the May issue of Trains Magazine.
Steamtown is, however, the least railfan friendly excursion operation I have ever been on.
That may be but for children it is a different stroy. And where else can you see a collection of engines in the east?