From Steam to Steel: America’s Railroading Bicentennial

Day One — Saturday, October 2, 2027

Travel to Pittsburgh for a fascinating journey through history, with self-guided explorations of Bicycle Heaven Museum, home to a remarkable collection of vintage bicycles, and Johnny Angel’s Ginchy Stuff, featuring eclectic music memorabilia. Enjoy lunch on your own in the lively Strip District before a scenic Gateway Clipper cruise along Pittsburgh’s three rivers. After checking in at the Drury Plaza Hotel, gather for a welcome dinner at the magnificent Grand Concourse, housed in a historic railroad station. A ride on the historic Monongahela Incline, offering memorable views of Pittsburgh, will take place before or after dinner, followed by a return to the hotel. (Dinner)

Lodging: Drury Plaza Pittsburgh Downtown

Day Two — Sunday, October 3, 2027

Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out and boarding Amtrak for a memorable ride past the famous Horseshoe Curve, a landmark of American railroad engineering, en route to Altoona. Explore the Railroaders Memorial Museum, where exhibits bring to life the people, power, and innovation behind the Pennsylvania Railroad. After lunch at Zack’s, travel to Gettysburg and check in at the Courtyard Gettysburg. The evening is yours to enjoy dinner on your own near the downtown Square. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Lodging: Courtyard, Gettysburg

Day Three — Monday, October 4, 2027

Begin with breakfast at the hotel before exploring the Gettysburg Museum and Cyclorama, where immersive exhibits and a spectacular panoramic painting bring the pivotal Civil War battle to life. Continue with a guided tour of Gettysburg Battlefield, discovering the stories of courage, sacrifice, and strategy across its historic landscape. Enjoy lunch on your own at the café or downtown before boarding the Gettysburg Railroad for a scenic countryside ride with a wine tasting. After time to freshen up at the hotel, savor dinner at the historic Dobbin House. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Lodging: Courtyard, Gettysburg

Day Four — Tuesday, October 5, 2027

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and travel to New Freedom, Pennsylvania, to board the Northern Central Railway for a relaxing excursion through the picturesque countryside of southern Pennsylvania. Enjoy a boxed lunch aboard the train before returning to the station and continuing to Baltimore. Check in at the Kimpton Hotel before gathering for a delicious dinner at Phillips Seafood, a Baltimore favorite known for its Chesapeake Bay seafood. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Lodging: Kimpton, Baltimore

Day Five — Wednesday, October 6, 2027

Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel before a guided tour of historic Baltimore, highlighting the city’s pivotal role in American railroading. Drive by landmarks including Camden Station, President Street Station, and other sites tied to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. Visit Garrett-Jacobs Mansion in the Mt. Vernon neighborhood and the Irish American Museum to discover the contributions of Irish immigrant families. Then, explore the B&O Railroad Museum, featuring historic locomotives, railroad artifacts, and a ride along America’s first mile of commercial railroad track. After a boxed lunch, discover Baltimore’s electric streetcar heritage at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, with an opportunity to ride an authentic streetcar. Enjoy dinner on your own in charming Little Italy. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Lodging: Kimpton, Baltimore

Day Six — Thursday, October 7, 2027

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for home, bringing your railroading adventure to a close. Take with you wonderful memories of historic rail journeys, fascinating stories, and the remarkable people and places that shaped America’s past. (Breakfast)