What to see and do. Plan to spend a few hours looking at indoor exhibits and walking the trails. At the visitor center, open from 9 AM to 5 PM (until 6 PM summers), a 20-minute film introduces you to the details of this unique railroad. Here and at the Lemon House, a tavern built by Samuel Lemon during the portage's peak years, look through exhibits and watch costumed interpreters bring these bustling decades of early national expansion alive. Be sure to step inside the Engine House Exhibit Center, which houses a full-scale model of how the inclines worked. The site is handicapped-accessible.

Take time for nature hikes through the surrounding forest on the site's 2.5 miles of trails. An outdoor amphitheater offers summer programs. Call ahead for details on the summer schedule and also the "Evening on the Summit" program.

Fees: A nominal entrance fee is charged for those aged 17 and older.


Benjamin Franklin National Memorial
Address: 222 North 20th St The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 215-448-1200 or 215-448-1308

Overview. Originally opened in 1938 to honor Benjamin Franklin, renowned patriot, statesman, inventor, writer, and publisher, Memorial Hall, located in the rotunda of the Franklin Institute, houses a 20-foot-tall statue of Franklin. The seated figure was sculpted by James Earle Fraser of white Seravezza marble, and weighs 122 tons. The hall itself was designed by John T. Windrim, who modeled it on the Pantheon in Rome; its floors, walls, and columns are fashioned from rare French, Portuguese, and Italian marbles.

What to see and do. In addition to the impressive statue of Franklin, the memorial exhibits many of his personal effects, including scientific instruments, original publications, his printing table, and the odometer he used to measure Philadelphia postal routes. A mystery clock, received as a gift when Franklin was in Paris, is also on display.

The memorial is open daily, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM Sunday through Thursday, and to 9 pm Friday and Saturday. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day, New Year's Day, and Independence Day.

After you visit the memorial, be sure to take in the exhibits at the Franklin Institute Science Museum, located in the same complex. There is an admission charge to enter the science museum.


Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor
Address: 10 East Church St Room A-208 Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Commission
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Phone: 610-861-9345
Fax: 610-861-9347

Overview. The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor was designated to commemorate the role that two Pennsylvania canals and the railroads associated with them played in the progress of the Industrial Revolution. The corridor, located in eastern Pennsylvania, stretches for 150 miles from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol. The Delaware and the Lehigh canals served as the main arteries for transportation of coal from fields in eastern Pennsylvania. Boats and trains transported the precious cargo throughout the region, and this new accessibility to fuel helped change the 19th-century American landscape from a rural agricultural economy to an industrial giant.

What to see and do. The Corridor is site of numerous festivals, recreational offerings, landmarks, parks, and trails. Altogether, the region contained in the corridor holds over 100 significant historic sites, segments of six national trails, and 14 National Historic Landmarks as well as shopping districts, amusement parks, state parks, and scenic rivers. Your best bet to find out about recreational opportunities, special events, and specific points of interest within the National Heritage Corridor is to call the Corridor Commission, located in Bethlehem, PA, at 610-861-9345.


Delaware National Scenic River
c/o Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Bushkill, PA 18324
Phone: 570-588-2451
Fax: 570-588-2780

Overview. Delaware National Scenic River is a 41-mile segment of the Delaware River that runs through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides of the Delaware River. The river curves in a dramatic "S" at Walpack Bend, just west of Bushkill Falls, granting you a breathtaking vista of this great waterway.

What to see and do. Swimming, fishing, canoeing, and boating are permitted at designated Recreation Areas along the 41-mile span of the Scenic River. You'll find canoe-camping sites as well as two group campgrounds and one family campground along the river. Go to the visitor center at Kittatinny Point for information. Nearby attractions include Bushkill Falls and Delaware State Forest in Pennsylvania, and Worthington State Forest in New Jersey.


Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Bushkill, PA 18324
Phone: 570-588-2451 or 570-588-2447
Fax: 570-588-2780

Overview. As the Delaware River winds south toward the Atlantic forming the New Jersey/Pennsylvania border, it cuts dramatically through the Kittatinny Ridge, forming a "water gap." On the Pennsylvania side of a sharp S-curve in the river, Mt. Minsi rises to 1,463 feet, while across the river Mt. Tammany tops it at 1,527 feet. Lenape Indians first lived in this hilly, forested area on the edge of the Appalachian range. Since the 17th century, it has been continuously occupied by first Dutch, then English, and finally American settlers.

In 1965 this 40-mile stretch of the river and almost 70,000 acres lining its banks were declared a national recreation area to promote support for the proposed Tocks Island dam, to be constructed six miles north of the gap. But the resulting reservoir would have flooded 80 percent of the new recreation area, and ultimately the dam project was dropped. The area remains, boasting not only the stunning gap between Minsi and Tammany, but also 40 miles of the Delaware, known as one of the cleanest rivers in the East, and several historic sites along a 17th-century roadway. Visitors enjoy hiking, water sports, and cultural activities in this rural getaway only 90 minutes from New York City and Philadelphia.

What to see and do. There are two visitor centers in the area. Located near the water gap at the southern end of the park, you'll find the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center, which is open year-round. Further north on the Pennsylvania side, the Bushkill Visitor Center is open only in the summer. If you start your day at the gap, continue your exploration by hiking one of the area's 60 miles of trails. One fairly strenuous though short hike brings you to the peak of Mt. Tammany, from which you have excellent views of the gap and the river below. Several of the area's trails hook up to 25 miles of the Appalachian Trail, which runs along the Kittatinny Ridge. While you're in the backcountry, you may glimpse white-tailed deer, maybe a black bear, and if you visit during the spring or fall, migratory raptors.

Many visitors drive the Old Mine Road, one of the first commercial highways in the New World. Stretching for 104 miles between New York State and Pennsylvania, this road was first used in the 17th-century. Though most of it is now paved, one section remains as it appeared 150 years ago. Don't miss the Van Campen Inn, a 1746 structure. Bikers enjoy the paved sections of this hilly road running almost the length of the park.

Another old-fashioned route is the river. Bring or rent a canoe, raft, or tube from local stores for a scenic, refreshing ride. You'll find river access every eight to ten miles along the river. Two sections have been set aside for waterskiing.

If you'd rather look at water than be on it, drive up to the Dingmans Falls. A short hike leads to the falls, a 130-foot cascade. Close by, the George W. Childs Recreation Site features a more rigorous walk down steps and across bridges to see three falls. The ruins of an 1825 wool mill testify to the area's use of water power during the Industrial Revolution.

Plumb the park's natural and cultural resources year-round. Anglers may try for panfish and bass in the 20 lakes and ponds as well as the river. Hunting is permitted in season. Winter visitors may look for one of the bald eagles or ski cross-country trails. Snowmobiles are also permitted at Smithfield Beach. Summertime visitors will enjoy a walk through Millbrook Village, a 19th-century settlement. Don't miss the Hialeah Air Park where radio-controlled model aircraft loop and buzz through the air in this area set aside for hobbyists.


Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
7th and Spring Garden Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19123
Phone: 215-597-8780
Fax: 215-597-1901

Overview. Edgar Allan Poe, one of young America's most celebrated writers, lived for six years at various locations in Philadelphia. The city, at one time the nation's cultural capital, proved fertile ground for Poe's active imagination. He published his most famous stories --"The Murders in the Rue Morgue" and "The Fall of the House of Usher" among them -- while living here, and it's said the Seventh Street house cellar is the setting for "The Black Cat."
What to see and do. Located at the corner of Spring Garden and Seventh streets, Poe's 1843-44 residence is just outside of Philadelphia's Center City. When you arrive, you'll find three handicapped-accessible buildings, two of which are the visitor center. Poe wrote mysterious stories and led a mysterious life. So few details of his life remain that the six rooms of his house have been purposefully left empty except for a wall displaying photographs of his family. Ranger tours suggest how Poe may have used the rooms, but you are free to imagine the details. In the visitor center, watch the slide presentation and look at copies of original story illustrations. After you browse in the bookstore, which specializes in American writers, don't miss the "Reading Room" with its dramatic renderings of Poe stories on audio tapes. There is also a nonlending library for students who wish to learn more about Poe.
Depending on the day you visit, you may encounter some special programs. On January 19, you can take a literary theme tour to commemorate Poe's birthday (call ahead for details). Kids 8 to 12 enjoy the Summer Magazine Club from June through August, and in October, candlelight tours commemorate Poe's death. If you plan to visit with a group of over ten people (25 is the limit), reservations are recommended. School tours must make a reservation. There is no entrance fee. Braille tests are available. Normally, Poe's house is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily June through October. The site is closed Mondays and Tuesdays from November through May, and on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Note: the site is currently closed due to construction and is scheduled to reopen in September 2000.


Eisenhower National Historic Site
Address: 97 Taneytown Rd
Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804
Phone: 717-338-9114 or 717-334-1124
Fax: 717-338-0821

Overview. Dwight Eisenhower, 34th President of the United States, and his wife, Mamie, bought this 189-acre estate in 1951. It was the only home the couple ever owned. During Eisenhower's presidential term, the farm served as a "temporary White House." Here the Eisenhowers hosted world leaders including Khrushchev, De Gaulle, Adenauer, Nehru, and Churchill. Eisenhower lived here until his death in 1969; two years earlier, he and his wife had deeded the property to the National Park Service. Mamie continued to live at the estate until her death in 1979. The property was opened to the public in 1980.

When the Eisenhowers first acquired the estate in the 1950s, they built a two-story, Georgian-style house with the help of architect Milton Osborne of Penn State University. The surrounding grounds were also expanded and extensively landscaped. The decor Mamie chose for the house is all 1950s, with a blend of informal and formal styles. Outside in the yard is a putting green, which was donated by the Professional Golfer's Association of America.

What to see and do. You can take a guided tour of the farm and a self-guided tour of the house; tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be purchased at the visitor center. If you have a large group, you may want to schedule your tour ten days or more in advance, because tours fill up quickly and are especially crowded during the summer months.

Rangers offer interpretive talks out on the lawn during the summer months. You can also take a half-mile, self-guided tour around the grounds and other farm buildings such as the barns where Eisenhower raised his Angus cattle. Eisenhower's original farm equipment is on display. Stop in at the visitor center to pick up a full-color brochure.

Special events and activities include a military weekend the third weekend in September and a Christmas with the Eisenhowers festival in December. The site also offers educational programs for school-age children, including a Junior Secret Service Agent program available April through October for children aged 7 to 12 traveling with their family. Living history interpretive programs are presented Memorial Day through mid-October.

The site is located near the Gettysburg National Military Park off PA 134. No parking is available. The site is accessible only by a shuttle bus from the National Park Service Visitor Center. Except for major holidays, the estate is open daily from April to October, and Wednesdays through Sundays from November to March.


Fort Necessity National Battlefield
Address: 1 Washington Pkwy
Farmington, PA 15437
Phone: 724-329-5512
Fax: 724-329-8682

Overview. In May of 1754, among the forests of southwestern Pennsylvania, George Washington outfought a small force of French. Far from immediate reinforcements, Washington built a protective "fort of necessity" in five days. In July, he was bested by the French and Native Americans after a nine-hour battle for the fort. These skirmishes opened the French and Indian War for control of the North American colonies. On this 900-acre site, a reconstructed Fort Necessity, restored Mount Washington Tavern, Jumonville Glen (where Washington defeated the French in their first May skirmish), and the nearby grave of General Braddock chronicle the area's history.

What to see and do. After watching a ten-minute slide presentation and looking through exhibits of 18th-century artifacts in the visitor center, head outside to the main feature, the reconstructed fort. As you approach the fort on the short paved trail, imagine Washington's troops busily digging out the diamond-shaped earthworks surrounding the log stockade. For an account of events preceding the July battle, listen to the three-minute audio presentation located at the fort.

Summertime visitors find the park a lively place, teeming with living history presentations, talks, and tours. After looking at the accurate replica of the fort, which is open until dusk, take a walk around the five miles of looping trails. As you hike through forests and meadows, you'll probably see typical Pennsylvanian small animals and birds. Winter travelers may cross-country ski, although the trails aren't groomed.

Your second stop should be the restored tavern, located behind the visitor center and at the top of a steep hill. Reach the tavern either by a paved path or by driving. From 1811 to 1855, the National Road passed through this area on its way to what is now the Midwest. Inside the 11-room brick building, you'll find the bar and some bedrooms furnished as they were during the tavern's peak years in the 19th century. Finish up your trip by stopping by the grave of General Braddock, located about 1.5 miles west of the park.

Around the year the park offers special programs and festivals. Call ahead for a full schedule of events and guided tours. Educational groups should make reservations at least two weeks in advance. The site is handicapped-accessible.

Pets: Leashed pets are permitted.

Fees: A nominal entrance fee is charged for adults.


Friendship Hill National Historic Site
Address: 1 Washington Parkway
Farmington, PA 15437
Phone: 724-725-9190 or 724-329-5512
Fax: 724-725-1999

Overview. Albert Gallatin, a Swiss immigrant who served under the Jefferson and Madison administrations, lived in this house from 1789 to 1825. Gallatin is known for his work as an envoy to Great Britain and France, and for negotiating a truce to end the War of 1812.

What to see and do. You will be greeted by a holographic presentation in the exhibit room and get an overview of Gallatin's life and work. Self-guided tours are available in historic sections of the house, and guided tours are available at certain times during the year; call ahead for details. The site is handicapped-accessible.

Other features of the site are Gallatin's first wife's grave and 10 miles of hiking trails that offer scenic views of the Monongahela River. Spring and fall are prime seasons to visit here to see wildflowers in bloom or leaves turn.

The site is located along PA 166, three miles north of Point Marion.

Pets: Leashed pets are permitted.

Fees: A nominal entrance fee is charged for adults.


Gettysburg National Military Park
Address: 97 Taneytown Rd
Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804
Phone: 717-334-1124
Fax: 717-334-1891

Overview. In the summer of 1863, Robert E. Lee began an invasion north of the Mason-Dixon line with the intention of destroying a major railroad bridge at Harrisburg, PA, thus disabling northern supply routes. At Gettysburg, a chance encounter with George Meade's Union forces led to a three-day battle that saturated the surrounding farmland with blood. Control changed hands several times during the course of the battle, but by the third day the Union was holding a strong strategic position. General Lee, in an attempt to penetrate the Union center, directed General James Longstreet to attack and break the federal line using 12,000 Confederate infantry, some of whom were under the command of Brig. General George E. Pickett. Less than an hour after "Pickett's Charge" began, over 5,000 Confederate soldiers lay dead or wounded, the courageous effort an utter failure.
Over 51,000 men became casualties at Gettysburg, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. Lee retreated into Virginia and, although the conflict would drag on for two more years, the Confederates never fully recovered from the losses, both physical and psychological, that they suffered at Gettysburg. Only months after the battle, a national cemetery was dedicated at the site. The highlight of the ceremony was meant to be Edward Everett's two-hour oration. The most popular speaker of the era, Everett recounted the battle in painstaking detail. Then President Abraham Lincoln rose to deliver his brief address. He spoke for only two minutes, but his powerful words, now known as the Gettysburg Address, are remembered and cherished by all Americans.
Today, portions of the battlefield are preserved much as they were that fateful July. In addition, more than 1,300 monuments and 400 cannon are on view along 40 miles of scenic roadways. The adjoining Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 6,000 soldiers, 1,632 of them unidentified. Of these, 3,512 are Civil War burials.
What to see and do. Begin your tour of the battlefield with a stop at the Visitor Center and Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War. There, you can learn more about the conflict through interpretive displays and a large electronic map with lights showing troop movements and the order of the battle. A schedule of park activities, including ranger-led tours and interpretive programs, is posted there. Nearby, the Cyclorama Center offers more exhibits, an informative film, and a sound and light program featuring Paul Philipoteaux's Gettysburg Cyclorama, a huge painting depicting Pickett's Charge.
Most visitors choose to drive through the battlefield. The auto tour, which starts outside the visitor center, includes all major battle sites. Informative markers along the route explain the significance of each numbered stop. Pick up a map of the self-guided tour at the visitor center; the route usually takes two to three hours. Anyone can make reservations for a bus tour of the battlefield led by a licensed guide. For reservation information call (717) 334-1124 ext. 439.
If you want to get closer to the action, several trails wind around the battlefield. The High Water Mark Trail originates near the Cyclorama Center and leads through the area where Union forces repulsed Pickett's Charge to General Meade's Headquarters. It is about a mile long. The Big Round Top Loop Trail is also a mile long and introduces hikers to the flora and fauna of the southern Pennsylvanian woodlands. Details about longer hikes, such as the Billy Yank Trail (nine miles) and the Johnny Reb Trail (three and a half miles) are available at the visitor center. The Park covers 6,000 acres/26 miles of park roads.
<p>A Youth Group Campground is located in the park and is only open to organized groups from mid-April to mid-October. For more information, contact the park at (717) 334-1124, extension 423. Other accommodations, including campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants, are located in the city of Gettysburg, adjacent to the park.
<p>The Visitor Center and Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War is open from 8 AM to 6 PM during the summer and to 5 PM the remainder of the year. The Cyclorama Center is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Both facilities are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The park and surrounding community host a number of historic festivals, craft shows, and special interest programs throughout the year. Contact the park or the Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau for more details ((717) 334-6274).
The Eisenhower National Historic Site is adjacent to the park; tours of the Eisenhower home leave from the Gettysburg National Military Park visitor center. The city of Gettysburg plays host to a number of attractions, from more than two dozen museums to riding stables and miniature golf courses. Independent bus and historic trolley tours of the park can be arranged.


Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church Natl Historic Site
Address: Christopher Columbus Blvd and Washington Ave c/o Independence National Historical Park
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Phone: 215-389-1513 or 215-597-1293
Fax: 215-597-1416

Overview. The oldest church in Pennsylvania and the second oldest Swedish church in the U.S., this edifice, an excellent example of 17th-century Swedish church design, still houses an active congregation. Built in 1700, the present building contains artifacts from an earlier log church, including the baptismal font, paintings, the tongue of the original bell, and other items of spiritual and historic interest. The church has been designated as a National Historic Site, but is owned and administered by its congregation, not the National Park Service. It is included as an important stop on many Philadelphia architectural tours.
What to see and do. The church and grounds are open to the public daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. You are welcome to take in the church's famous architectural design, view the artifacts on display in the building, and wander through the monuments in the churchyard. Self-guided tour brochures are available for the historic cemetary. Restrooms are available to visitors. Remember that this is a place of worship; respect the site and maintain a quiet demeanor, especially if services are in progress.
Although it is now an Episcopal church, they still observe Swedish religious traditions, one of which is the Feast of St. Lucia, celebrated on the weekend nearest to December 13 with a pageant of instrumental and vocal music. To obtain more information on this and other scheduled observances, please contact the church at 215-389-1513.


Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
Address: 2 Mark Bird Lane
Elverson, PA 19520
Phone: 610-582-8773
Fax: 610-582-2768

Overview. In the 18th century, iron making was one of the colonies' primary industries. Pennsylvania's rich stores of the principal materials -- iron ore, limestone, and forests for the charcoal -- made it an ideal spot for furnaces. In 1771, Mark Bird fired up the Hopewell Furnace west of Philadelphia. Until 1883, it produced raw iron, cookware, and stoves. Preserving the rural plantation in its antebellum appearance, this 848-acre site includes the blast furnace, ironmaster's house, and several outlying buildings.

What to see and do. Wear comfortable outdoor shoes for your walking tour through the park's wooded acres. At the visitor center, open from 9 AM to 5 PM year-round, you can watch several captioned video programs introducing you to the history of plantation-scale iron making. Outside, trails lead you through the plantation to the 14 restored buildings, most of which are handicapped-accessible. You can't miss the ironmaster's mansion or the main blast furnace. During the summer, watch for living history programs as well as molding and casting demonstrations. If you explore the longer trails, you'll come across the charcoal hearths, where trees from the surrounding woods were reduced to char. On Establishment Day in August and Apple Harvest Day in September, you can watch a charcoal burn (call ahead for exact dates). On the longer hikes through forest, keep an eye out for local species of birds and animals. Finish up your day with a picnic on the grounds or in adjacent French Creek State Park, whose trails connect to this park's.

Starting with sheep-shearing in May, the park offers special events year round. Call or write ahead for details. A wheelchair is provided at the park. With two weeks notice, guided tours and two kinds of hands-on tours are available to educational groups.

Pets: Leashed pets are permitted.

Fees: A nominal entrance fee is charged.


Independence National Historical Park
Address: 143 S Third St
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-965-2305 or 215-597-8787
Fax: 215-597-1548

From 1790 to 1800, Philadelphia was the new nation's capital, and before that, the Continental Congresses met here. An important port city serving the middle Atlantic region, it was also the economic and cultural capital (though Bostonians may dispute this claim). This park encompasses only 45 acres, but packed within them are 20 buildings whose story bears directly upon the formation of the United States in the late 18th century. Located in Philadelphia's Old City, the park includes Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
To see all the sites, you may wish to plan two days. A good tour of selected places should take you all day. Begin early at the visitor center, located at Sixth and Market streets, which is open from 8:30 AM until 5 PM (til 7 PM in summer). Situate yourself geographically and historically with orientation films and kiosks. Rangers will help you lay out a good trip. At most sites you can take a tour on a first-come, first-served basis, but for Independence Hall, you need to obtain timed tickets at the visitor center.
Most visitors will want to see the home of Ben Franklin, perhaps Philadelphia's most famous citizen. You can see outlines of his house and his grandson's print shop, and underground you'll find a museum. Touring Independence Hall sets the 18th-century tone for your entire visit. Continue your tour at the reconstructed City Tavern, where delegates and leaders met to discuss national affairs in a more relaxed atmosphere. Jefferson stayed at the Graff House four months while drafting the Declaration of Independence. His rooms have been restored to look as they did in 1776. These sites are only four of almost 20 possible stopping places, many of which have their own film presentations or demonstrations. Check at the visitor center for individual programs.
Mobility-impaired visitors will find most sites accessible. The visitor center and some sites have extended summer and weekend hours; call ahead for schedules and information about current special events. Extensive library and archive resources are available.


Johnstown Flood National Memorial
Address: 733 Lake Road
South Fork, PA 15956
Phone: 814-495-4643
Fax: 814-495-5571

Overview. In the afternoon of May 31, 1889, the South Fork Dam, strained by heavy spring rains and weakened by a poorly considered and improperly engineered enlargement, gave way, dumping 20 million tons of water and debris on the population of Johnstown. Over 2,200 people lost their lives in the flood, which took only 40 minutes to level the town of 30,000. Two eroded abutments are all that's left of the South Fork Dam, once the world's largest earthwork dam.

The South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club, a sportmen's lodge owned by a group of industrialists from Pittsburgh who decided, ill-advisedly, to enlarge the reservoir, suffered little damage in the collapse. Today, visitors may stop by the inn that occupies the building and share in the opulence once reserved for a privileged few.

What to see and do. You'll find the visitor center close by the clubhouse, where you can watch a 35-minute film recounting the history of the Johnstown flood and view exhibits about the disaster. Schedules of interpretive talks and ranger-led tours are posted at the visitor center. There is a bookstore on site; other facilities include a picnic area, a nature trail, and trails that lead along the remains of the abutments. The site is handicapped-accessible throughout.

Each spring, the anniversary of the flood is commemorated in the "Tales of the Great Flood" program. Living history demonstrations are presented throughout the summer months.

The memorial is 10 miles northeast of Johnstown and is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, with longer hours in the summer. It is closed on Christmas.

Fees: A nominal park entrance fee is charged.


Steamtown National Historic Site
Address: 150 S Washington Ave
Scranton, PA 18503
Phone: 570-340-5200 or 888-693-9391
Fax: 570-340-5334

Overview. The glory days of the steam locomotive may be long gone, but the memory of railroading's golden age is preserved here, in Scranton's old Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad Yard. Three steam locomotives in operating condition chug around this working train yard, and more than 20 steam engines are on display. The park has over 60 railroad cars, including passenger and baggage cars, hoppers, and cabooses. The museum complex includes a visitor center, theater, two museums, and a museum store, as well as a working roundhouse and turntable. Among other buildings are the locomotive and restoration shops.
What to see and do. Stop by the theater and see Steel and Steam, a 20-minute film made expressly for Steamtown. Then join a ranger-led tour through the roundhouse, or out to the locomotive shop. Check the visitor center for information on "Ranger Choice" tours, which run the gamut from the Big Boy engine to "Rosie the Railroader."
Be sure to hop aboard the train at Steamtown. From April through December, one of the working steam engines is on hand to shuttle you around the yard. If you want to ride the rails a little farther, two-hour weekend trips to nearby Moscow, PA, are offered from Memorial Day through the first weekend in November. Special events are scheduled throughout the year such as the Memorial Day and Rail Expo celebrations and the Polar Express. Call for specific information.
The site is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The site is handicapped-accessible, but call for details.
Food and lodging are available close by. The entrance is at Lackawanna and Cliff avenues.
Pets: Pets are not permitted in the museum buildings.
Fees: The grounds are free. A nominal interpretive fee is charged for the museum complex.


Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
Corner of Third and Pine Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: 215-597-9618 or 215-597-8780
Fax: 215-597-1416

Overview. Exiled for opposing Russia's domination of his native land, Polish patriot Thaddeus Kosciuszko, the man responsible for the design of the Continental Army's defense works and a hero of the American Revolution, arrived in Philadelphia in August of 1797. Wounded and partially paralyzed at the hands of the Russians, Kosciuszko took an upstairs room at 301 Pine Street. There he was visited by the most important men in the newly formed Republic, including his close friend Thomas Jefferson. His stay in America was short, however. He returned to Europe in May, 1798, and lived in France until 1815, when he moved to Switzerland where he passed away in 1817.
What to see and do. Kosciuszko's room has been restored with period furniture to approximate its appearance in the winter of 1797-98. The attention to detail is meticulous: there is even a crutch in one corner of the room. An audiovisual program about Kosciuszko is presented in both English and Polish, and rangers are available to provide additional information about the man and the site. Kosciuszko's birthday is commemorated with a wreath laying ceremony.
The memorial is located in historic Society Hill, surrounded by many beautiful 18th century homes and churches. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June through October, it is closed on Monday and Tuesday from November through May and on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Pets: Pets are not permitted.


Valley Forge National Historical Park
PO Box 953 Route 23 and North Gulph Road
Valley Forge, PA 19482-0953
Phone: 610-783-1077 or 610-783-1000
Fax: 610-783-1053

Overview. On December 19, 1777, Washington led the Continental Army to their winter camp at Valley Forge only 18 miles from British-held Philadelphia. The winter was severe, and the army faced extreme hardship caused by a lack of supplies and spreading disease. However, six months later, Washington's army emerged a well-drilled, orderly fighting unit, thanks to Baron Friedrich von Steuben, Prussian drillmaster to the Continental Army, and thanks to Washington's determination and inspiration.

What to see and do. Walk or drive through the site of the Valley Forge encampment, which includes the Isaac Potts House (Washington's Headquarters), General Varnum's Quarters, the remains of original earthworks, and the Grand Parade grounds, as well as reconstructions of soldiers' huts. Pack your lunch and enjoy one of the three picnic areas.

The park commemorates the army's arrival at Valley Forge each December 19th, and reenacts their departure in June.

The visitor center has many artifacts on display, including one of Washington's field tents. It is open every day except Christmas, from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Fees: A nominal entrance fee is charged for Washington's Headquarters building.


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