We visited the Choo Choo Barn after passing it so many times and wondering how it would be for kids five and under. Right outside, there's a cute train photo op and a water mining activity, which looked fun. My kids were a little too small to fully enjoy the mining setup due to height and visibility, but the bags were reasonably priced around $10-$12. Inside, the ticketing process was smooth and included a souvenir ticket, which was a nice touch. The main attraction is behind a curtain--a large, detailed train display set up in a one-way loop. You can walk through it at your own pace and even go around multiple times. The display itself is impressive, with lots of moving parts and scenes like a circus, a trampoline performer, and even real fish incorporated into the setup. My kids enjoyed spotting the trains and little details, though the experience wasn't very interactive. They made it through once and took their time looping back, but the entire visit lasted about 15 minutes. This feels like a better fit for kids who are really into trains or who enjoy more visual experiences rather than hands-on play. My kids didn't stay as engaged as I expected. Parking is shared with nearby businesses, so availability may vary. We were able to find a close spot, but the lot in front is limited. Also worth noting the bathrooms are not located within the main train display area. Overall, it's a cute experience and I'm glad we checked it out. It may not be a repeat visit for us, but it's worth seeing at least once, especially for train-loving families. read more

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Purchased a discount admission coupon thru Clipp, however the Choo Choo Barn refused the valid coupon. I've never had an issue with anyone refusing Clipp before, it's actually allowed us to visit merchants that we haven't visited before and ended visiting multiple times after that. We have visited years ago and purchased 2 yearly passes, but it's not good business to turn people away that purchased the certificates. We ended up leaving since we've been there before. read more

Choo Choo Barn - About the Choo Choo Barn - Museums Near Me - Strasburg, Pennsylvania

Choo Choo Barn surpassed my expectations. This small world is a must see if you are in the state. The town is so detailed and immersive that it could easily hold your attention for a hour. There was running water, fish, and night/day lighting cycles. It is perfect for all ages. We went in a group of 6 20-something adults and it did not disappoint. There are also interactive components where you press buttons and certain elements move. All of these worked for me. You just have to look for a second to spot the moving action. The ticket was $13 which I would surely pay again to see something like this. It is also connected to a model train store and ice cream shop so you can expect to spend a whole afternoon at this stop. read more

I have lived here my whole life and never visited the Choo Choo Barn before today. At first I was skeptical at how "cool" it could be, especially for $12/person (under 3 is free). However, once you enter the room it is absolutely incredible. The amount of detail that went into this is astounding. There are interactive buttons along the way that do different things. The lights occasionally dim to represent nighttime. I truly felt as excited as a little kid going through this room. My child had a blast as well and loved looking at everything there was to offer. 10/10 would visit again!! read more

Choo Choo Barn - Museums Near Me - Strasburg, Pennsylvania

While at first, $12 might seem pricey to see a train layout but once you step beyond the curtain, it's pure magic and totally with every penny! There is so much to see, so much animatronics that you'll need to make more than one pass to see everything. The lights periodically go down (representing sunset and nighttime) and you get to see the towns at night. Really amazing! read more

Choo Choo Barn - I won't post too many to spoil the magic. Pictures don't begin to do it justice anyway. - Museums Near Me - Strasburg, Pennsylvania

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We had a valid certificate generated by the Clipp organization on behalf of the Choo Choo Barn for 2 free admissions. We had paid $12 for the certificate, which was 50% off. When we arrived, Choo Choo Barn refused to recognize or redeem the certificate, claiming that they had been "scammed" by Clipp. If this were true, their issue is with Clipp, not the customer who paid for the valid certificate. read more

After a fun outdoor outing of hours, it was nice to come inside and enjoy AC plus my son loves trains. So does my hubs since he works on one :P We saw this place in the winter when they were closed so I knew when back in the area for summer we'd be coming here. Cute place. read more

Three generations of our family has enjoyed this miniature world for more than 3 decades. Every time we go back we see something new or that we didn't notice before. It's very easy to lose yourself in the fun and fantasy of this massive train and model layout. The town and country design comes alive with movement, lights, day and night cycles, and all kinds of activity. It's almost like someone brought The Busy World of Richard Scarry to life. Looking for a challenge? Participate in the Easter Egg hunt challenge and see how many scenes you can spot. This place holds a very special place in my heart. I hope it remains for generations to come. read more

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This place is AMAZING! First off, the space isn't huge. When you walk inside it's a modest counter in a small gift shop. But behind the curtain, you walk into a room that definitely has a big WOW factor, despite not being larger than a big living room. However, the model inside is absolutely impressive. You can totally tell this place was built by someone who truly loves model trains, trucks, figurines and buildings. It's really the definition of a labor of love. What's amazing is just how much detail was put into every little piece. Local landmarks such as Dutch Wonderland are all lovingly recreated. Even the little monorail of the park and the space shuttle ride was replicated to a tee. It was pretty cool to see such a nice little version, especially just a day after we went to the actual park. This is a terrific place to bring young children. Even adults would be totally immersed in all the cool trains constantly circling the tracks. This is really something that brings out the inner kid in you and is a fantastic way to share a fun experience with the little ones. This place is also a short drive away from the train museum and also not far from a few local farms that you can bring the family to. It's definitely a good add to the itinerary if you're looking to take in all the fun parts of the Lancaster area. read more

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After a visit to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, lunch and waiting for our train ride on the Strasburg Railroad, we decided to make it a train day. We stopped into the Choo Choo Barn. What fun!!! Okay this is great visit for kids, but even the bigger kids. The staff was so nice and friendly. They love talking about the display and they should it is so impressive. We easily spent an hour or a bit more, walking around the very large display twice just to make sure we saw it all. Everything moves, the entire town has scenes, the ponds have live goldfish. A house catches on fire, a fire truck leaves the station, firefighters go into the house to rescue a boy while one uses real water to douse the fire, all in miniature. The trains go through the town, a car has hit a pole and knocked out power, and it goes on and on. The lights go down and the lights come on in all the houses and buildings. All of this was hand built and is continuing on through family. The ticket price is minimal for an hour or more of fun. Kids will be enthralled and will love it. If you have little ones, you may need to carry them to see the display as it is up off the ground. Well worth the time and ticket price. read more

This place was really cool. When we first got there I asked the woman at the register how long will it take to go through. And she said an hour sometimes an hour and a half. I have a five-year-old and yes they're definitely five-year-old that could take an hour plus mine definitely did not. I think we were in there maybe 40 minutes probably more like 30. And I think the reason we took that long was because I thought it was pretty cool. I've been to Lancaster many times I had never heard of this place. I totally recommend stopping in for a little bit. It's really impressive the amount of time and passion that would've had to go into this train set. There's something for everyone and so many amazing details. I really loved the house that was on fire in the fire truck went to rescue everybody. Really fun. read more

12$ a person that is crazy for something that is extremely small and outdated. They hide the room before you pay so you can't see the size of it. Just go to the museum for cheaper ‍‍ read more

This was so much fun! We were visiting the area doing the other things (Hershy park, riding a train, visiting a farm) and we noticed this and couldn't help but stop. Super nice people, not too expensive and you could easily spend an hour in here looking at the display. It's a bit tall (so not great for toddlers unless you plan on holding them up the entire time). But still super neat. I didn' think it woudl be as cool as it was. The curtain makes it seem like you are getting to go into a backroom of something super cool - kids loved that! And it goes from night to day and there is a scavenger hunt. Definitely check it out if you like trains, models, or just need something to do while you are in the area. Cute gift shop too if you need a cute trinket for the kids! read more

Great place to visit and spend time with the family. layout is very detailed, many of the scenes show the surrounding area. What sets it apart is the amount of realistic movement built into the layout. Real water, lakes, scenes with all kinds of real life "people " doing different things. Even a scene with a house 'fire' that the fire company people actually go up a ladder and put out with water. The amount of work that was necessary to build this is unbelievable. Admission fee is very reasonable. read more

I have a train obsessed toddler grandson so when I saw a listing for the Choo-Choo barn in the local clipper magazine it was a no brainer - we had to go! Of course, being born and bred in Lancaster Co I've heard of the Choo-Choo barn but never paid attention to it, not fully understanding what it was, and it slipped from my mind until I saw the ad. Let's just say I regret not taking my own kids here when they were little. Basically it's a huge room with a model train set up, but not just any model train set up, but one with lots of movement, and not just from trains. Lancaster Co scenes and landmarks were depicted, and everything was expertly replicated, no detail left undone, regardless of how small.There were ponds with real fish and water even! Lights came on and off, cars moved in the distance, planes went overhead. There was noise and activity from every angle and so much to see. A Dutch Wonderland scene had moving people and amusement park rides, the circus was complete with animals, a real fire was attended to by a local fire dept, and so on. My grandson was in awe, not only because of his love of trains, but because of the scene as a whole, all in miniature version. Two of his favorite features were the train going thru a cave, and when it disconnected and hooked up in the opposite direction. And just when we thought we saw it all, the lights went out, to a nightime display, complete with fireworks! I can't image the time and effort that went into not only planning and building this, but of keeping it all moving, maintained and clean. Americanna at it's best and fun for adults and kids alike! While it wasn't crowded and is open every day of the week, we did go on a snowy day in winter. With it's close prixmity to the Strasburg rail road I can imagine this place get packed during the height of tourist season. Some things to know, it was VERY AFFORDABLE, $10 for an adult and my grandson was free. They do have a special admission package for 4 in the current Clipper Magazine. There's a train themed gift shop attached, as well as a separate (walk outside and it's adjacent) extreme hobbist train store, and an Amish run cafe in the complex. Once inside you can stay as long as you like and I highly recommend at least going around the display at least three times and I guarantee you'll see something new each time. I also think the display changes for the season, so even if you went before, it's worth going again. We liked it so much I might buy a season pass! read more

I went here last year and I was highly disappointed. The train display is only in one room. When I came here I expected to see more than just one model train display. Don't waste your money going here because you'll be disappointed if you try to go here. Instead you should visit the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania because it is way more interesting. read more

We live locally and have visited numerous times with our kids and there's always new things to see in the layout! Our kids love it!

Fun family adventure around the tracks. Kids of all ages loved it. Okay, the hubby loved it like a kid lol read more

So fun to see such an awesome layout. My kids went here in 2022 and demanded for a return visit from Massachusetts the following year! There is a real fire and a fire truck puts it out! Very well done! read more

Went here, spent $12 to a small outdated room that was musty. Very uninteresting trains. They have a mirror that makes it seem as if the room is much larger when in fact its small. Multiple of the buttons did not work and they sell a bunch of crap in the front. DO NOT COME HERE AND WASTE YOUR MONEY read more

Always a fun place to visit! An action packed, train packed, and scenic packed display of Lancaster County. Been coming here for years. Very glad and relived with the new ownership having such a strong interest in continuing the legacy. Be sure to visit the hobby shop next door too! Lots of trains, supplies, and kits to see! read more

When driving to the train museum and the train excursion, this little corner shop can be easily missed with a sign promoting trains. We honestly didn't think much of it, thinking it was just a train store or toy store promoting trains. I believe we've passed it 4 times until we decided to actually stop in. Upon entering, it's just a tiny shop with a glass case as a register and a smiling friendly woman excited to greet us. It was empty. I was honestly having second thoughts. There were curtains to the right as we enter making the mystery of the store even more suspicious. When entering the room behind the curtains, my first thought was how in the world is this even possible. It was a room of about 20x50 or so and the center of it was one huge setup. Even though it's not a walk through, there's a 1 person walkway on the perimeter of the room. Literally everything has a noise, was moving, or light up somehow! I unfortunately don't have any pictures, but it was stunning. For a small space, you can easily spend 30 minutes to an hour here oogiling at everything, and it's a guarantee that you'll still miss something. read more

Choo Choo Barn is an amazing place. I've been going since I was a child in the 70's. Now I take my children, some of Whole are adults themselves, as well as my daughter. We go almost every year. We enjoy seeing the updates every time we visit as well as the many animations on the layout. This is a great place for families, or anybody who enjoys model railroads, miniatures or just trains in general. It is adjacent to the PA Railroad Museum, across from the Strasberg Railroad, also beer the Red Caboose Motel and the Toy Train Museum. read more

Choo Choo Barn - Museums Near Me - Strasburg, Pennsylvania

This was very expensive for what it was. I wouldn't have spent the 12.50 had I know how small it was.

This place is amazing! All that it is, is one big train layout that fills up an entire room. That said, you could easily spend 30 to 60 minutes in here just enjoying the layout and all of the amazing details that went into it. Even if you're not a train/trolley layout person, you'll find something in here to appreciate. Just seeing the mechanics of the whole thing in operation is worth the price of admission. The set-up is incredible and elaborate, and every train and trolley is timed perfectly. There's even multiple trains running on the same tracks, so be sure you take the time to observe everything - you never know what will appear next! Another reason to take your time is to take in all the little details. The zoos, the ferry, the moving people, even a model of the Red Caboose Motel and the Strasburg Railroad that perfectly are in here, just to name a few things you can spot if you take the time! Step on it during your day in Strasburg - you'll enjoy it! The gift shop isn't too bad, either - I got a cute Christmas ornament to give to my family when the holidays roll around. read more

Choo Choo Barn - Part of the enormous layout in the building. - Museums Near Me - Strasburg, Pennsylvania

We had a blast I know this is more for kids but its for all ages that like trains and then to make it more interesting they give you a list of things to look for like a scavenger hunt. We had to go around twice to get them all and still missed 4 things read more

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Took my 11 year old granddaughter, her 12 year old cousin and my wife. Even though my wife and I had been there several times with our children we were still impressed. I highly recommend it for everyone, young and old. There are so many impressive features to enjoy. I feel you can't see all of them in one trip. We will definitely be back. I also recommend stopping at the model training store next door also called the choo choo barn. read more

I came here as a kid (20+ years ago) and really enjoyed it. I was back recently and it was good, but not as great as I remembered. The layout worked fine but there was one train that kept derailing and getting messed up (ironically, a model of the Strasburg RR train) and when I went to tell the employees they didn't seem to care or appreciate that I was trying to help them. Also, because it is shaped like a square you are required to go around in a loop and if there is a large group behind you or in front of you then you are essentially boxed in and forced to go with the flow. I had a good time, and likely will come back, but perhaps when there are less people so I will have more time to enjoy it. read more

The live fish are upsetting. It's not cute, rather cruel and unnecessary. It doesn't add anything to the otherwise very impressive display. I'd say it takes away from it. Not only seeing live animals being used this way is distressing, but also they're completely out of scale which makes it just out of place and breaks the illusion. I hope the owners will reconsider having live fish on display. read more

Don't get me wrong, the Choo Choo Barn is a very unique piece of Lancaster County kitsch but at the same time what they post on their website is a lie where they claim something to the effect of "This place is like nothing you've ever seen". Well I guess it is like nothing you've ever seen unless of course you've never been to Roadside America and then you realize that the two places are the exact same in theory and the fact is that Roadside predates CCB by twenty years. Now the thing the does make CCB different from Roadside or from Northlandz is that this place closes every year for about two months to do some rehab to the displays and to even change some things around where as at the other places they in essence have been doing the same shtick for years and that's why they look more dilapidated than CCB does. CCB is currently charging $7.00 for adults and $4.00 for children and at the most you need 45-50 minutes to see everything. Worth noting is that they do offer free admission on three Fridays in December every year with a donation of one non perishable food item. Although I would not recommend going on those Friday's or during the three times a year that the Strasburg Railroad has Thomas on site as the CCB can get very, very busy. They are also located in the Traintown USA shopping center that also has an Issac's, the Thomas' Trackside Station and model train supply store owned by the Strasburg Railroad. read more

So on our now annual pilgrimage to Strasburg, we decided to give the Choo Choo Barn a whirl. You can get discounted tickets if you purchase them in conjunction with your Strasburg RR train tickets. I think it saves you a buck each. The 4 year old was entranced by the meticulously detailed displays of not just model trains, but all sorts of intricate set-ups like a zoo, construction site, carnival, Amish stuff etc. The display itself is pretty big, but the walkway around it is a pretty tight squeeze. The 18 month old was a bit too young, so I'm glad he was free. I had to ditch the rest of our group to chase after him. Luckily there is a nice ice cream & candy shop next door for bribes. Also a model train store & sandwich shop are in the same shopping center. CCB is located just a 1/4 mile down the road from the Strasburg RR. Worth going to see at least once if you have a major train tyrant in tow. read more

If you're counting Andre the Giant, this would be the 9th Wonder of the World. The detail and craftsmanship on display here is remarkable. I love it. read more

First off the display is amazing. If you are a human being...you need to pay attention to the intricacy of each piece cause there's TENS OF THOUSANDS if not more. Amazing to view. Only reason this is not a 5 is the price. It's a little steep, for only being in there for 20 minutes. Yes you can stay longer, but you see everything in that 20 minute time frame. read more

Great fun for any model railroader, or display modeler. The custom models, dioramas, and especially the unique one-of-a-kind displays are impressive and surprising. Fun for railroad enthusiasts as well as unfamiliar or uninterested accompanying spouses or family members. :-) They will also be impressed and enjoy the display. Great gift shop also. And a separate hobby shop next door. Well worth the stop. Make it a quick 30 minutes or spend over an hour easily. read more

Definitely worth seeing. Little ones especially will be fascinated. Multiple trains on multiple tracks, accompanied by all kinds of moving support pieces. This captures the eye and imagination on so many levels. Definitely a must see attraction in Lancaster County. read more

What a cool place!!! The layout they have is incredible!! Their imagination is awesome! They have a night and day display.. a definite stop for the little train lover in you... and for your kids. They also have a military discount, which was great. Highly recommended!! read more

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AMAZING! We stopped in on the way back from a quick trip based on the great reviews. Upon getting there, it looked like a small little store. Hubby and I debated going in and the cost based on initial appearance. Let me tell you. The lady working in the store is the best salesperson. All she said was "stick your head in and take a peek". SOLD. This place is amazing. The level of detail that went into each part of the exhibit was spectacular. I loved watching the different scenes that told a holistic story. Definitely stop in and take a peek. Well worth it. read more

All of those people saying "Well this place is better" or "I've seen this before at..." shouldn't let the fact that other places exist like this affect their review. Just because other restaurants exist that also serve steak doesn't mean they're all mediocre. This place is amazing. The amount of work that goes into the ridiculous level of detail is mind boggling. I would LOVE to get a look at what the inner workings of this setup look like underneath the floor of this display. I'm still amazed that it works flawlessly. I'm no train enthusiast, and to tell the truth, the trains are an afterthought in this place. There are literally a thousand things to look at from any point in the room and I felt like a little kid in there the entire time. read more

I was worn out but am glad we didn't miss this: An evolving toy-train replica of the Lancaster area, complete with animations of Amish house-building, riding lawn mowers and marching bands. read more

I brought my kids here a couple of years ago. We LOVED it. The displays are AMAZING,from ski lifts and tiny skiers to police car stops and flying planes. It was a sight to see! read more