Steamtown National Historic Site to Host Railfest on Labor Day Weekend Railfest is scheduled to return to Steamtown National Historic Site Labor Day Weekend, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 29, 30 and 31, 2025. This year’s event will highlight significant milestones in the park’s history and locomotive collection. The weekend will center on the 100th birthday of Grand Trunk Western No. 6039, a steam locomotive built for high speed and longtime part of Steamtown’s collection. The park will also recognize the 30th anniversary of its 1995 grand opening to the public, a milestone following years of preparation after Congress established Steamtown as a unit of the National Park Service in 1986. For nearly 40 years, Steamtown has preserved and interpreted the history of steam railroading in the United States. Visitors can expect a variety of experiences, including train rides, locomotive displays, interactive exhibits and hands-on programs suitable for all ages. Community partner organizations are expected to participate, offering activities that connect visitors with railroad heritage and local history. A free shuttle will run between Steamtown National Historic Site and La Festa ltaliana, a popular Italian festival held in downtown Scranton the same weekend. The service will help visitors easily experience both events. Guests can also reach the park from Lackawanna Avenue via the Marketplace at Steamtown’s mall bridge walkway. Additional details about event schedules, activities and participating partners will be shared as the weekend approaches. For general information about the park, including hours and directions, visit www.nps.gov/ steamtown.
Steamtown National Historic Site to Unveil Restored Bullard No. 2 Locomotive On Saturday, July 5, at 12:30 p.m., Steamtown National Historic Site will host an official unveiling of the cosmetically restored Bullard No. 2 locomotive. After many years of dedicated work by National Park Service volunteers, interns, and staff Bullard No. 2 has returned to public view. Removed from display to undergo a comprehensive cosmetic restoration, the locomotive’s return marks more than just the completion of a project— it represents the culmination of years of care, skill, and commitment from countless contributors who helped preserve this piece of history for future generations. The official unveiling on July 5 will include a brief ceremony recognizing the many contributors behind the restoration. The event will give the public a chance to view the completed work and meet some of the individuals who helped make it possible. “The Bullard No. 2 project is a testament to the dedication and skill of our team,” said Superintendent Jeremy Komasz. “We’re grateful for everyone who gave their time and energy to restore this piece of history. Their work reflects the collaboration that makes everything we do here at Steamtown possible.” The success of the Bullard restoration reflects years of steady work by many hands. Volunteers, interns, and staff logged countless hours restoring components, researching history and preserving the locomotive’s structure, often during periods with limited visibility or resources. The result stands on a foundation built through persistence, skill, and shared commitment. If you have contributed to the Bullard No. 2 project at any stage, we invite you to raise your hand and join us for the unveiling ceremony. A commemorative group photo will be taken with the locomotive to recognize and honor all who were part of the journey. Let us celebrate the efforts of those who gave this historic locomotive new shine and a lasting legacy. The Bullard No. 2 restoration is just one example of many projects at the park that highlight the wide range of volunteer contributions at Steamtown. Volunteers support nearly every aspect of park operations, from enhancing the visitor experience and assisting with historic restoration to maintaining facilities and providing administrative support. Their contributions are essential to keeping the park running and its stories alive. “Our park is fueled by more than coal or diesel—it’s fueled by people,” said Komasz. “Whether it’s technical skill, a welcoming smile or a passion for history, our volunteers help preserve the park’s legacy and ensure future generations can experience the story of steam firsthand.” Interested in volunteering? Whether you’re looking to get involved for the first time or return after time away, Steamtown is welcoming both new and former volunteers to join the team. To learn more about current opportunities and how to apply, visit: https://www.nps.gov/stea/getinvolved/volunteer.htm
Steamtown National Historic Site to Launch Summer Schedule Steamtown National Historic Site will transition to its summer schedule and increase in-park operations and experiences starting on Saturday, May 3. The park and its buildings will remain free to enter, daily summer hours will expand to 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Technology Museum will reopen, and the park will fire up its popular“Scranton Limited” yard shuttles—short train rides that offer visitors a front-row seat to the sights, sounds and motion of a working rail yard, all set within the park’s historic landscape.“Scranton Limited” yard shuttle schedule:May: Short train rides will operate Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.June–July: Short train rides will expand to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, at the same departure times.Ticket Prices: Ages 0–5: $1 Ages 6 and older: $6 Tickets are valid for the entire day of purchase. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis; passengers should arrive 15 to 20 minutes before departure to secure a seat. Operations are subject to change due to weather, mechanical issues or crew availability. Tickets can be purchased on site at the Tickets and Information Kiosk (credit or debit only).“Every ride through the park’s historic train yard connects visitors to the story of steam railroading in America,” said Superintendent Jeremy Komasz. “We’re proud to offer these experiences as part of our mission to preserve and share this rich industrial heritage.” Established by Congress in 1986, Steamtown National Historic Site was created to promote public understanding and appreciation of steam locomotives in the region. The park, located on the former Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad yard in downtown Scranton, interprets how railroads accelerated the growth of industry, innovation and communities across the United States.As the season continues, Steamtown will continue to explore opportunities for the expansion of access to live steam railroading and interpretive programming, offering even more ways for the public to engage with rail history.For more information about train rides and upcoming events, visit our website at http://www.nps.gov/steamtown or call (570) 445-1898.
Steamtown National Historic Site Announces Events for Winter Winter Updates and Holiday Events at Steamtown National Historic Site Winter is knocking on the door! While heading into the “off season” there are still plenty of opportunities to get into the spirit of the season at Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS)! Winter Updates Saturday, November 16: begin winter hours of operation, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., daily. Steamtown’s History Museum, Roundhouse building, and outdoor spaces will remain open throughout the winter. Weather may cause delays or closures, for updates visit http://go.nps.gov/STEAconditions. Friday, 11/22 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Stuff the Caboose Spread some holiday cheer and help us “Stuff the Caboose” with non-perishable food items to benefit United Neighborhoods of NEPA ahead of the holiday season. Visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy some hot cocoa, s’mores, holiday lights, and music performed by West Scranton High School Band. Friday – Sunday, 11/29-12/1 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., each day Holiday Express to Moscow Have family visiting for the holiday? Spend time with them on board a scenic train ride along Roaring Brook through a northeastern hardwood forest to the quant country borough of Moscow, Pennsylvania. NOTE: this train may already be sold out, however, folks are encouraged to visit the park or Moscow Station to see the train in action before departure and after arrival. Saturday, 12/7 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. LHVA’s Christmas in a Small Town “Santa Train” Santa and Mrs. Claus will once again spread holiday cheer as they journey through the upper and mid-valley communities of Lackawanna County, stopping at five historic train stations along the way. Families are invited to join in the festive spirit, where Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet children with warmth and joy, sparking the magic of the season. NOTE: this is NOT a passenger train. Review the Clauses travel itinerary, so you don’t miss their visit to your town: · Carbondale – 10:30 a.m. · Archbald – 11:35 a.m. · Jessup – 12:20 p.m. · Olyphant – 1:00 p.m. · Dickson City – 1:45 p.m. · Scranton/Steamtown – 3:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, 12/8, 12/14, 12/15, 12/21, and 12/22 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., each day North Pole Limited Join the Iron Horse Society and Santa for a magical steam train adventure! Get into the holiday spirit by experiencing the sounds and tastes of the holiday season starting with an “All Aboard” from the Conductor! Sing along with our roaming musicians as they play carols and enjoy a holiday treat. Tickets and additional information: North Pole Limited — Iron Horse Society
Steamtown National Historic Site Offering Paid Internship Opportunity Steamtown National Historic Site has an opening for a Community Volunteer Ambassador (CVA) – a paid 48-week internship with the National Park Service between September 9, 2024 – August 8, 2025. The park is seeking a reliable, creative, and outgoing person to join our team and with a goal to build and develop a park-wide Safety Campaign. The CVA will be responsible for producing videos, social media content, graphic design, print publications, and safety-geared programming at Steamtown National Historic Site. Additionally, they will contribute to park efforts in community outreach, volunteer service, and interpretive and educational programming.The position includes a weekly stipend of $600, limited health care/childcare benefits, housing allowance, and professional development funds PLUS eligibility for both an AmeriCorps Education Award $6,895.00 (pre-tax) AND Public Land Corps Hiring Authority upon successful completion of the program.To be eligible, applicants must be high school graduates, between the ages of 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans), a US citizen or permanent resident, and comfortable working outside for extended periods of time.Interested individuals must apply by July 7, 2024!
Steamtown National Historic Site Event “Railfest” Returns Mark your calendars! Railfest returns to Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS) Labor Day weekend: Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1, 2024. This year’s celebration will be offered in partnership with the Iron Horse Society, Steamtown’s official philanthropic partner. Both organizations are excited to be collaborating to provide an interactive and immersive experience celebrating railroading’s past, present, and future. Details are still being ironed out for the weekend-long event which is expected to include activities such as train rides, community partners, ranger-led programming, live entertainment, and more! Updates will be forthcoming. Stay informed by visiting www.nps.gov/steamtown or @SteamtownNHS on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Learn about the Iron Horse Society by visiting https://theironhorsesociety.com/ or @ironhorsesociety on Facebook and Instagram. Located in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, Steamtown NHS is open 9:30am to 5:00pm, daily. From Interstate-81 follow exit 185 (President Biden Expressway, formerly known as Central Scranton Expressway); then follow the brown and white signs to the park entrance at Lackawanna Avenue and Cliff Street (GPS: N 41.41, W 75.67). General park information is available by visiting the park website anytime. www.nps.gov/steamtown
Steamtown National Historic Site Announces 2024 Train Schedule All aboard! Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS) train rides resume for the 2024 season on Saturday, May 4. The Steamtown rail experience varies from short 30-minute trips exploring the park’s historic railroad yard to full-day trips along the Pocono or Carbondale lines. Our short train rides will begin on Saturday, May 4 and the first excursion trip of the season will head to Gouldsboro, PA on Saturday, May 25. Beginning Saturday, April 20 visitors will be able to purchase advance tickets online through recreation.gov for our summer excursions (May.-Sep.); additionally, a limited supply of tickets for our short train rides will also be released. Tickets for our autumn excursions (Oct.-Dec.) will be released on Saturday, July 6. Visitors may also purchase tickets on-site at the Information Kiosk, credit card only. Beginning Saturday, May 4: Our short train rides will operate Saturdays and Sundays. Departure times are: 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:15pm, and 2:30pm. Tickets are $6 for passengers over the age of 5; $1 for passengers aged 5 and under. Tickets are valid all day for the date of visit and may be used for multiple short train ride experiences. Beginning Saturday, June 1: Our short train rides will operate Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Departure times are: 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:15pm, and 2:30pm. Tickets are $6 for passengers over the age of 5; $1 for passengers aged 5 and under. Tickets are valid all day for the date of visit and may be used for multiple short train ride experiences. For all short train rides, seating availability is first come, first served. We recommend getting in line 15-20 minutes ahead of scheduled departure time. 2024 Summer Excursions: tickets available beginning April 20 Saturday, May 25 – Gouldsboro: Craft Show, Kids Activities, and Local Author Reading Sunday, June 16 – Jessup: Father’s Day event (in partnership with the Iron Horse Society) For tickets, email: info@theironhorsesociety.com Thursday, June 20 – Olyphant: Third Thursday Sunday, June 30 – Cresco: Museum, Food Trucks, Live Music, and Antique Cars Saturday, July 20 – Moscow: Grand Reopening (in partnership with the Iron Horse Society) For tickets, email: info@theironhorsesociety.com Saturday, July 27 – Moscow: Country Street Fair Sunday, August 4 – Moscow: Ice Cream Express (in partnership with the Iron Horse Society) For tickets, email: info@theironhorsesociety.com Saturday, August 17 – Carbondale: Pioneer Nights Saturday, September 14 – Moscow:Cork & Rail (in partnership with the Iron Horse Society) For tickets, email: info@theironhorsesociety.com Saturday, September 21 – Carbondale: Scarecrow Festival 2024 Autumn Excursions: tickets available beginning July 6 Saturday, October 5 – East Stroudsburg: Pickle Me Poconos Saturday, October 12 – Tobyhanna: Fall Foliage and Blueberries Sunday, October 13 – Cresco: Fall Foliage, Museum, Food Trucks, Live Music, and more Saturday, October 19 – Delaware Water Gap: Fall Foliage Sunday, October 20 – Carbondale: Outdoor Train Saturday, October 26 – Gouldsboro: Ghoulsboro Halloween Friday, November 29 – Moscow: Holiday Express Saturday, November 30 – Moscow: Holiday Express Sunday, December 1 – Moscow: Holiday Express NOTICE: Train rides are subject to cancellation due to mechanical issues, inclement weather, or crew availability.
Steamtown National Historic Site Hiring Curatorial Assistant intern In partnership with the American Conservation Experience (ACE) and the NPS Cultural Resources Diversity Internship Program (CRDIP), Steamtown National Historic Site is hosting a curatorial assistant. The selected ACE member will assist curatorial staff with collection management activities and participate in professional development opportunities. The CRDIP introduces students and recent graduates, from backgrounds historically underrepresented in the National Parks, to career opportunities within Cultural Resource Management in the NPS. “Underrepresented” and “diversity” are broad terms in this context meant to reach as many students and recent graduates as possible from all backgrounds. Click the link below to learn more and apply today! https://usaconservation.applicantpool.com/jobs/1062276
The Steamtown National Historic Site to Host “Stuff the Caboose” Event Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS) invites the public to “Stuff the Caboose” and enjoy some holiday cheer on Friday, November 17, 2023, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. This free family event will take place at Steamtown NHS, located at 350 Cliff Street in Scranton. The holiday season is just around the corner! Steamtown NHS and its partners are asking for your help to restock the United Neighborhood Centers of NEPA Food Pantry with non-perishable food items. Interact with Scranton’s police and fire departments and their equipment, enjoy the sounds of holiday music provided by students from West Scranton High School Strings and Band, sample s’mores over a horizontal “Ring of Fire”, and take in the sight of locomotives decorated with holiday lights. Visitors will also have photo opportunities with the former Nay Aug Park Miniature Train to capture new memories or relive those from long ago!
