New Hope & Ivyland Railroad, New Hope

The historic New Hope & Ivyland train winds through the grassy hills and sweeping valley vistas of Bucks County, much the same as it has since the first tracks were laid more than 100 years ago. Not much has changed in the decades since—except for the fact that today, its passengers likely carry smartphones to commemorate their trips instead of hiring an oil painter to join them on the journey. The railroad has pushed into the modern era with a mission to preserve the "Golden Era of Steam Railroading."

Throughout the year, an authentic steam or diesel locomotive pulls a train of restored 1920s passenger coaches and an antique bar car out of the station for a 9-mile history tour. As the train rolls through the countryside, narration unveils some of the history of the railroad and surrounding county. The railroad also offers special themed holiday train rides and dinner express outings. Trains depart from the original New Hope Station, which has been in operation since 1891.