Choo Choo Barn

Choo Choo Barn translates the railway landscape into a miniature world whose appeal lies in close observation. The exhibition began with the Groff family's home train layout and opened publicly on Thanksgiving Day in 1961. Its current presentation occupies about 1,700 square feet and combines operating model trains with more than 180 handmade animated figures and vehicles.

The detail extends beyond locomotives. Moving road traffic, working figures and a staged fire scene create a landscape that changes as mechanisms cycle through their actions. The exhibition's own explanation describes motors, rods, gears and timers behind the movement. Looking for those relationships can make the visit as interesting to an adult curious about mechanical craft as to a child following a train.

Most trains use O gauge, with smaller gauges also represented. Some buildings and scenes retain elements from the early layout, giving the attraction a history of making and adaptation rather than the uniformity of a recently assembled display. It remains a separate business from the nearby full-size railway and state museum.

The published 2026 schedule lists 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. operation, with specified holiday closures; the display stops promptly at closing. Allow time to watch repeated sequences instead of treating the room as a quick walk-through. Standard wheelchairs can navigate the layout, but the operator warns that scooters and motorized chairs may struggle with turns. The older FAQ also describes winter maintenance closures, so confirm dates before planning an off-season visit.

Verified: 2026-09-26 · Official website · Address: 226 Gap Road, Strasburg, PA 17579 · Phone: 717-687-7911 · Email: info@choochoobarn.com · Facebook · YouTube · Official logo

Sources: Choo Choo Barn · Choo Choo Barn — 2026 Rates and Hours · Choo Choo Barn — Frequently Asked Questions · Choo Choo Barn — History