We did not pre-plan this event, so we just checked into riding the train after visiting the Choo-Choo Barn (see journal entry). We were in time to ride the last train of the day, so we decide to take the trip.

Our trip constisted of a 45-minute ride aboard America's oldest short-line raiload, which began in 1832. There are several fare options and we opted for the cheapest, which is coach, at a cost of $9.25 for adults and $4.74 for children 3-11. The ride took us through Pennsylvania's Dutch country and past several Amish farms. The scenery was pretty, if not spectacular, and the railroad cars were all restored to their original late-1800 specifications and design. We also learned the history of this particular railroad and a bit about the people surrounding it.

Though the trip was pleasant, next time I would opt for one of the dinner trains. This particular railroad offers lunch and dinner trains; special event such as Easter, Halloween, Murder Mystery, and Santa Trains; and "A Day out With Thomas The Tank Engine Trains".

The railroad is located right across the street from the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, which features more than 100 restored engines and railcars. There are also several small shops onsite at the railroad where you can buy any kind of train-related souvenier or local Dutch crafts.

Further information related to this railroad and upcoming events can be found at www.strasburgrailroad.com, www.thediningcar.net, www.rrmuseumpa.org, and www.strasburgrailroadstore.com (for online shopping).

Overall our rail experience was pleasant and relaxing and made a nice ending to our day of sightseeing. If you are a railroad enthusiast, then you will find this a worthwhile venture--especially since you can spend a whole day around train-related attractions.

The feature that sets this layout apart from any other we have seen is that it is animated with such scenes as a building on fire (listen for the siren and then find the firestation); a downhill ski mountain with a tram; and re-creations of local areas. These include an Amish barnraising; the Strasburg Railroad (a local train tour); a local amusement park; and much more. If you spend enough time admiring this layout, you will also get to experience the day turning into night; complete with stars.

After your visit to the Choo Choo Barn, you can shop at the Thomas'' Trackside Station (devoted to Thomas the Tank Engine) or a model railroading store. There is also a store that sells railroad books and videos; a small restaurant & deli (Isaac''s); a candy store; and a Country Keepsakes store that sells crafts and gifts.

Just down the road from the Choo Choo Barn is a railroad museum featuring full-size railroad engines and such and the Strasburg Railroad, which offers train rides through the Amish countryside.