Experience the Rarely Seen 1950s Vintage Train Riding in the Northeast

A historic train experience is making a comeback in Pennsylvania.

In April, the East Broad Top Railroad (EBT) located in Orbisonia, within the rolling hills and farmlands of central Pennsylvania, will turn on its engines once again on May 6.

According to a statement provided to iBestTravel, the 150-year-old railroad is the only surviving three-foot gauge common carrier railroad east of the Rocky Mountains. It is considered by the Smithsonian to be one of the best-preserved examples of 19th-century American narrow gauge railroads, making it a significant site for train enthusiasts.

The train initially shut down service in 1955, reopened as a tourist attraction in 1960, and then closed again in 2011 without returning to service until now. From May 6 through the end of the year, the East Broad Top Railroad will be open for one-hour train rides in vintage cabooses, passenger cars, or open-air cars.

“[A hundred and fifty] years ago, the East Broad Top was among the earliest railroads in America to try a revolutionary new technology: narrow gauge,” according to the railway’s website. “Saved from scrapping by the Kovalchick family, the EBT was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Preserved today by the EBT Foundation, we welcome visitors from around the world to sample this monument to early railroading and our industrial heritage.”

The trip will take guests on a nine-mile, round-trip ride from the historic roundhouse and shops in Orbisonia to Colgate Grove and back. Visitors can choose between standard class, which includes bench-style seating just behind the locomotive, or caboose seating for an even more historic adventure. Prices for the train ride begin at $20 for adults and $18 for children.

Beyond the train rides, guests can also take part in a historic shop tour that includes viewing machines and tools that keep the train working just as it did on its opening day. Additionally, vintage trolley rides are available for those looking for a shorter excursion. For further information, visit East Broad Top Railroad’s official site.