Choo Choo Barn

The Choo Choo Barn is a model railroad attraction in Strasburg that has charmed visitors for decades. A large layout in a purpose-built barn recreates the countryside of Lancaster County in miniature, with towns, farms, a circus, a fire station, a lake and mountains, all threaded by trains that run on a regular loop. The scale is O gauge, which means the engines and cars are big enough to see details, and the layout includes many animated figures and vehicles that move as the trains pass. It is a short stop, but it is memorable, especially for children and for anyone who loves trains.

The layout is the star. It fills a large room and is viewed from a perimeter walkway with railings at child height, so small visitors can see over the edge. More than twenty trains operate at a time, including freight, passenger and trolley lines, and they pass through tunnels, over trestles and along main streets.

Scenes include a small-town fire call, a drive-in movie, a lumber mill, a farm auction and a circus with elephants, and hidden gags reward careful looking. A light-and-sound cycle moves the room from day to night, with windows glowing and street lamps coming on, which adds drama to the show.

The attraction is designed for quick visits. Most guests spend about thirty to forty-five minutes, though enthusiasts can easily double that, and the pace is relaxed. A gift shop sells model trains, books and souvenirs, and staff are happy to answer questions about the layout, which has been built and expanded over many years. Children are often given a scavenger-style challenge to spot particular figures, which keeps them looking and talking. The setting suits grandparents with grandchildren, and it is comfortable for people who cannot walk long distances, since everything is on one level.

Strasburg has a concentration of rail attractions, so the Choo Choo Barn fits into a larger plan. Within a short drive you can find the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum and a steam railroad that is covered in the Hershey market, which makes the town a rail-enthusiast's day trip. A good plan is to see the model railroad first, then the museums, then lunch at a local restaurant. The small scale of the attraction also helps with weather, because it makes a handy indoor stop between outdoor visits.

Younger children usually do best if you give them a mission. Ask them to find the circus, the fire engine and the tiny people hiding in the scenes, and see who spots the most. Older visitors might look for the engineering details, such as the way trains are routed through the layout and how the lighting is timed.

The shop at the end sells model trains, books and small gifts at a range of prices, so set expectations before you go in. The whole stop is quick, which makes it an easy addition to a busy day.