Home » TOURISM NEWS » Railroad Museum Of Pennsylvania’s New Roundhouse Inspired By Cressona Roundhouse Set To Become A Major Tourism Attraction In Lancaster County, US

Published on
January 25, 2026

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, US which is located in Strasburg Lancaster County, is undergoing an exciting transformation through the construction of a new roundhouse. The project derives its design from the historical Cressona roundhouse, which served as a landmark of Reading Railroad’s historical importance. The new building which will be constructed, intends to capture the original building’s essence, which will help the museum operate as a more interactive experience for visitors who love history and trains.

Spokesman Patrick Morrison of the museum highlighted that the design for the new roundhouse was shaped by the legacy of the Cressona roundhouse, specifically its 1928 origins and its essential role in Schuylkill County’s railroad history.

Reviving Railroad History for Future Generations

Opened in 1928, the Cressona roundhouse was one of the last constructed by the Reading Railroad before it closed in the midst of the Great Depression in 1933. Despite its brief period of operation, the roundhouse left a significant imprint on the region’s industrial history. The 100-foot turntable, integral to the operation of the Cressona roundhouse, was relocated to the museum grounds in 1970 and remains in operation today. This relic, donated by the Luria Brothers scrap firm in 1967, continues to be a central feature at the museum.

Once completed in about 18 months, the new roundhouse at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania will serve as a dedicated space for steam locomotives, with the original Cressona turntable moving locomotives in and out of the facility. This innovation will enable visitors to experience the full grandeur of working steam engines, which have long captured the public’s imagination.

A Gateway to Pennsylvania’s Railroad Legacy

The museum’s expansion represents more than just a preservation of history; it signals the region’s continued commitment to celebrating its railroad heritage while offering visitors a unique and enriching experience. The project will help cement the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania as a prime destination for both tourists and locals interested in exploring the pivotal role railroads played in shaping the state and the nation.

In addition to the roundhouse, the museum’s extensive collection includes over 100 historic locomotives and cars, including the famous Pennsylvania Railroad steam locomotive, the K4s #1361. Visitors can explore these exhibits and gain insight into the technological innovations that transformed the railroad industry. The museum also features interactive displays and a variety of educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages, making it an ideal stop for families and history buffs alike.

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For railway enthusiasts, the museum offers an unparalleled opportunity to get up close to these magnificent machines. The integration of the Cressona turntable into the new roundhouse will further enhance the visitor experience, offering a living connection to the past and a glimpse into the future of rail preservation.

Connecting the Past and the Future

One of the most exciting aspects of the new roundhouse project is how it combines historical preservation with forward-thinking design. According to museum spokesperson Patrick Morrison, the turntable from the Cressona roundhouse will not only serve as a working piece of history but will also enable the museum to expand its operations and enhance the visitor experience.

The new roundhouse will stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the past while preserving the history of Pennsylvania’s railroads for future generations. This project is expected to serve as a major tourist attraction for Lancaster County, drawing in visitors not only from Pennsylvania but also from across the United States and beyond.

A Tragic Past: The Loss of the Cressona Roundhouse

While the new roundhouse represents a bright future, the story of the original Cressona roundhouse is tinged with tragedy. In 2006, the historic building was destroyed in a devastating fire. Considered the worst fire in the history of Cressona, the blaze ravaged the structure and led to its eventual demolition. The fire, believed to have been set intentionally, caused explosions and posed a serious threat to nearby homes and businesses. Despite the devastation, the memory of the roundhouse lives on, particularly through the ongoing efforts at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania to preserve its legacy.

A Growing Destination for History and Tourism

With the new roundhouse set to open in the next year and a half, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is poised to become an even more significant attraction in Lancaster County. The project is not only a tribute to the region’s rich railroad history but also an investment in the local tourism economy. The museum’s continued expansion will attract visitors interested in exploring the fascinating world of railroads and their impact on the development of the United States.

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania offers a unique opportunity to experience the world of trains and locomotives in a way that few other destinations can match. Whether it’s the chance to witness steam engines in motion on the Cressona turntable or to explore the extensive collection of historic trains, the museum promises to provide a truly unforgettable experience for all visitors.

The new roundhouse construction at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania will provide visitors with an enhanced experience that showcases the lasting heritage of the area’s railroad past. The museum’s combination of authentic historical preservation and hands-on interactive displays will attract all visitors who want to discover the captivating realm of railroads and locomotives.

Image Credit: Railroad Museum Of Pennsylvania