STEAM INTO HISTORY- PLAYFUL PARENT SUMMER VACATIONING GUIDE

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This train loving and history buff family was in heaven during our visit to Steam Into History. It was such a treat to climb aboard the beautiful William H. Simpson No. 17; a replica of the Civil War steam locomotive that carried Abraham Lincoln to deliver the Gettysburg Address.

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There are two train excursion options. The Glen Rock rides which are about an 1 hour long and the Hanover Junction rides which are around 2.5 hours round trip. All rides depart from and return to New Freedom, PA. Both trips are great excursions. I recommend going to Hanover Junction because the views are breath taking.

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This beautiful historic train ride offers three different seating options. I recommend getting in line early to board if you have a particular car you’d like to sit in. On the ride down we sat in the open air car. The windows are larger and allow for great views and awesome pictures. On the ride back we sat in the lounge car with green seats. It was a very comfortable ride back.

Take time to explore the museum’s that are included with admission. There are two buildings to explore at New Freedom and one at Hanover. The small museum at Hanover had a quite a few interactive exhibits. It’s great when the kids can learn and explore through hands on experiences.

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One of the things I love most about Steam Into History is that you feel like you are rolling back in time. The reenactors are great and wear the most beautiful costumes. During our stop at Hanover Junction one of the reenactors brought out time period toys for the kids to play with.

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Be sure to check out the model train display at the New Freedom Station. It’s located in the very back past the ticket booth. If you look carefully you might even spot everyone’s favorite number one engine!

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Don’t worry…they have a train table and a pretty awesome little gift shop too! Grandma spoiled the boys and got them each a wooden railway train and a Steam Into History t-shirt.

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I have to give recognition to the staff at Steam Into History. Each member of the team we interacted with was friendly, genuine and seemed to absolutely love their job. We learned so much about trains and history from the staff.

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Steam into History is a non-profit and is dedicated to providing fun and educational programs to the community. Every month they offer different events to attend. Check out their calendar to find out whats coming next. Link to calendar

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Tips

  • Park your car at the park just down the street.
  • Bring ear protection if you have a little one with sensory issues.
  • Pack a lunch, there are picnic tables you can eat at during the layover at Hanover Junction.
  • If like riding bikes than bring your bike, the bike trails follow the train tracks and could be extra fun.

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Stream Into History

Address: 2 West Main Street, New Freedom, PA 17349

Website: http://www.steamintohistory.com

Price: Tickets are $15-$26 depending on age, ride, event, etc.  See schedule

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***Thank you Steam Into History for inviting us, we had a traintastic time! All information provided in this article is my own non-biased opinion. The Playful Parent was not paid to write this article; this vacationing guide was created to help families plan trips that promote learning through play and family bonding.***