EXCURSIONS & EVENTS
Join us on a journey back in time with our unique excursions and events at the Iron Horse Society!
While these trips offer a delightful blend of fun and education, they serve a more vital role as key fundraisers. Each ticket you purchase helps sustain our mission to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of railroads. By participating, you're not just enjoying a memorable day out; you're also contributing to the conservation of history and supporting the vibrant community at the Steamtown National Historic Site. Come aboard, experience the thrill of the rails, and play a pivotal role in keeping history alive!
Ice Cream Express - August 17, 2025
The Ice Cream Express returns for 2025 with a fresh new twist—one unforgettable ride, one charming destination, and one big scoop of fun! This family-friendly, one-day-only rail excursion rolls out on Sunday, August 17th, offering a round-trip journey from Scranton to Gouldsboro aboard a historic train provided by Steamtown NHS.
Passengers will disembark at the beautifully preserved Gouldsboro Station to enjoy:
Complimentary ice cream from Ice Screamers of Moosic
A live Dixieland band performance
A classic car display perfect for photos and family memories
Access to the Historic Gouldsboro Station’s museum and gift shop
Perfect for families, train lovers, and first-time riders alike, the Ice Cream Express blends vintage charm, local flavor, and railroad heritage into a deliciously unique event.
Tickets: Adults: $35, Seniors: $30, Children: $20, Infants (2 and under): $5
Railfest 2025 – August 29–31, 2025
Celebrating Steam, Steamtown, and a Century of No. 6039
All aboard for Railfest 2025—a milestone-packed celebration rolling into Steamtown National Historic Site this Labor Day Weekend! Join us August 29–31 as we honor 100 years of Grand Trunk Western No. 6039 and 30 years since Steamtown’s grand opening with a three-day extravaganza of steam, stories, and celebration.
Railfans, families, and first-time visitors alike will enjoy:
🚂 Visiting locomotives & live steam demonstrations
🧤 Hands-on activities for kids and adults alike
🎙️ Interpretive talks and historical exhibits
🎨 Community partner showcases and vendors
🎉 Special surprises honoring Steamtown’s 30-year journey
Whether you’re a seasoned rail enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to spend the weekend, Railfest 2025 is your ticket to unforgettable memories.
🗓️ August 29–31, 2025
📍 Steamtown National Historic Site, Scranton, PA
Lady Lois Tank Rides – RailFest 2025
Climb aboard history at RailFest 2025 with an experience you’ll never forget—a ride in “Lady Lois,” a fully restored, operational WWII M3A1 Stuart Light Tank. This special event, presented by the Iron Horse Society and the Stuart Tank Memorial Museum, lets you step into the turret and feel the rumble of authentic WWII armor.
Your 15-minute, 1.5-mile ride departs from the IHS Troop Sleeper display near Track 9, behind the Locomotive Shop, and takes you through rarely seen areas of Steamtown National Historic Site—including the Backshop, MOW, and OSB buildings.
Your donation directly supports:
Restoration of Troop Sleeper No. 3621 — a Pullman-built WWII troop sleeper at Steamtown NHS.
The Stuart Tank Memorial Museum in Berwick, PA — preserving the legacy of over 15,000 Stuart tanks built there during WWII.
After Dark at the Park - Railfest 2025
Join the Iron Horse Society at Steamtown National Historic Site for an exclusive, after-hours Railfest 2025 night photo experience. Each evening features three professionally lit scenes with legendary locomotives, rolling stock, and atmospheric effects.
Friday – Steam Giants After Dark (Friday, August 29)
A four-engine steam lineup along the boardwalk (#759, #3254, #15, #2317)
The newly restored Fireless Cooker #6816 with a classic coal hopper
Iconic #6039 framed at the main complex gate
Saturday – Diesel Legends After Dark (Saturday, August 30)
The DL&W F3 A-B-A set posed behind the shop
Norfolk Southern’s D&H Heritage Unit with DL #4068 in matching livery
DL&W SC switcher, PRR boxcar, and a WWII Stuart Tank
Limited to 30 photographers per night for an intimate, focused experience.
Tickets: $50/night – advance purchase required.
NEPA Valley Wine Train – September 13 & 27, 2025
Raise a glass and hop aboard—The NEPA Valley Wine Train is rolling back into town for 2025! This beloved experience pairs scenic train travel with local wine and food, brought to you by the Greater Carbondale Chamber of Commerce.
Choose from two Saturday departures—September 13 or September 27—each leaving at 1:00 PM from the Carbondale train platform.
Guests will enjoy:
🍷 Wine tastings at every stop—Carbondale, Archbald, and Jessup
🍽️ Lite food pairings by regional restaurants and vendors
🚂 A round-trip ride aboard a historic train through the beautiful Upper Valley
🛍️ A kickoff experience at the Carbondale station with tastings, music, and shopping
Tickets: $60 per person (Must be 21 to ride the train!)
A portion of proceeds supports the Iron Horse Society, helping preserve the history and magic of railroading at Steamtown National Historic Site.
Questions? Contact Dustin at (570) 282-1690 or email director@carbondalechamber.org.
North Pole Limited
December 2025
Various dates & times
Join Santa on the North Pole Limited! You'll depart Steamtown National Historic Site behind the historic steam locomotive Baldwin No. 26 on an hour-long holiday trip through the Scranton Yards and Nay Aug Park.
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 Christmas carols, and enjoy a holiday treat. Join Santa on the North Pole Limited! You'll depart Steamtown National Historic Site behind the historic steam locomotive Baldwin No. 26 on an hour-long holiday trip through the Scranton Yards and Nay Aug Park.