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We've compiled the best of the best in Pennsylvania Dutch Country - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This is an absolute must-see for railroad buffs. In a 100,000-square-foot exhibit hall, the remarkable Smithsonian-affiliated museum showcases a world-class collection of 100-plus vintage locomotives and railroad cars made or operated in Pennsylvania. Exhibits contain a treasure trove of photos, artifacts, and memorabilia documenting the history of railroading in the state.
Recognized as the largest horological collection in North America, this museum is home to thousands of timepieces and time-related items. The museum's location isn't random: Columbia has had a long clockmaking and watchmaking tradition. In the museum, you'll see early sundials and water clocks; a German Black Forest organ clock with 94 pipes; moon-phase wristwatches; and other timekeeping devices from around the world.
This multimedia experience features the life and work of Milton S. Hershey, who founded the town bearing his name—and just about everything in it. On display is a working Hershey Kiss wrapping machine plus other memorabilia from the company's long history. A highlight is the Chocolate Lab, which offers hands-on workshops (for a fee). The Pantry Cafe sells tasting flights of hot chocolates from around the world as well as light fare.
The showplace of the Train Collectors Association, this museum displays both antique and modern toy trains and is a must for toy train buffs. The museum has five huge train operating layouts, with toy trains from the 1800s to the present, plus nostalgic films and hundreds of locomotives and cars in display cases.
