Industrial & heritage museums in Pennsylvania

The Duquesne Incline is a funicular that is located near the South Side neighborhood of Pittsburgh, scaling Mt. Washington. This unique transportation system provides a unique way to explore the city and its surroundings, offering a different perspective of Pittsburgh. It's a great way to experience a piece of the city's history while also enjoying the scenic views.

The Frick Pittsburgh is a collection of museums and historical buildings situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. These establishments are centered around the 19th-century residence of the Frick family, known as "Clayton". This complex offers a unique insight into the life and times of Henry Clay Frick, a renowned industrialist and art collector.

The Independence Seaport Museum, previously known as the Philadelphia Maritime Museum, is a museum dedicated to the maritime history of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the Delaware Valley. It is located on the Penn's Landing complex along the Delaware River. The museum was founded in 1961 by J. Welles Henderson and houses several ships, including two National Historic Landmarks.

This place exhibits first coining press and you can also watch coining operations from above. No reservations are necessary.

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, which opened its doors in 1975, offers visitors a comprehensive overview of the history of the railway in the United States. This museum is a great place for those interested in learning about the evolution of rail transport and its impact on the development of the country.

The Steamtown National Historic Site, often referred to as Steamtown, is a railway museum situated in Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA. Established by a congressional decision in 1986, the museum aims to depict the history of American railways between 1850 and 1950. It is a significant destination for those interested in the history of American railways and the evolution of transportation.

The Horseshoe Curve is a renowned railway curve located near the American city of Altoona, Pennsylvania. This horseshoe-shaped curve was constructed in 1854 by the Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR). It is considered an engineering marvel and has been in operation since its inception. The curve is currently owned and operated by Norfolk Southern since 1999.

The Mercer Museum, situated in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, is a unique destination for those interested in history and culture. Operated by the Bucks County Historical Society, the museum offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing a vast collection of pre-industrial hand tools and other artifacts. The museum is part of a National Historic Landmark District, further emphasizing its historical significance.

The Erie Maritime Museum is a maritime museum located in Presque Isle Bay on the waterfront in downtown Erie, Pennsylvania. It is managed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and in partnership with the Flagship Niagara League, a non-profit educational association accredited by the PHMC for the operation of the brig Niagara.

The Science History Institute, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an American institution dedicated to promoting the understanding of the history of science. It is a place where visitors can explore the rich history of scientific discovery and its impact on our lives. The institute houses a library, a museum, archives, a research center, and a conference center, offering a comprehensive experience for those interested in the history of science.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, situated in southeastern Berks County near Elverson, Pennsylvania, offers a glimpse into the 19th-century rural iron plantation life. The site's operations were centered around a charcoal-fired cold-blast iron blast furnace, providing a unique insight into the industrial history of the region.

One of the best known firemuseums in the country displays many collections of history of firefighting in Philly.

The Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum is situated at 6825 Norwitch Drive in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This location is easily accessible and offers ample parking for visitors. The museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique insight into the evolution of racing sports cars.

The Lackawanna Coal Mine, located in McDade Park in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is a museum and retired coal mine. It was opened in 1903 and offers visitors a unique insight into the history and workings of a coal mine. The mine was operational for more than half a century before it was closed and later converted into a museum.

The National Watch and Clock Museum (NWCM), situated in Columbia, Pennsylvania, is a unique institution dedicated to horology - the study of the history, science, and art of timekeeping and timekeepers. This makes it one of the few museums in the United States with such a specific focus. Operated by the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, a non-profit organization with an educational mission, the museum serves both the general public and a specialized audience of horological aficionados.

The Leesport Lock House is a significant historical site located in Leesport, Pennsylvania, USA. It was constructed alongside the Leesport Locks #36 and #37 on the Schuylkill Canal, serving a crucial role in facilitating the swift movement of canal barges. This strategic positioning underscores the importance of the canal and the lock house in the region's transportation history.

The Robert Fulton Birthplace is a historic house museum situated at 1932 Robert Fulton Highway, south of Quarryville, Pennsylvania. This location is where the renowned inventor Robert Fulton was born. The house, built in the mid-18th century, was reconstructed after a fire in 1822. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964 and is currently owned by the Southern Lancaster Historical Society.

Established in 1800 by German Mennonites from Bucks County, West Overton Village is a testament to the 19th-century rural industrial village. Today, it operates as a museum complex, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The village was led by Henry Overholt, and it is an important part of the region's history. Visitors can explore the village and learn about its historical significance and the role it played in the industrial era.

The Haines Mill Museum, also known as Haines Mill, is a historic grist mill situated in South Whitehall Township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The mill, built around 1840, is a four-story stone building with a slate-covered gambrel roof. It measures 42 feet by 46 feet 9 inches, and is divided into three bays by three bays.

The Bahr Mill Complex is a significant historical site located in Colebrookdale Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania. This grist mill complex offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the industrial heritage of the region. It's an ideal destination for those interested in history and architecture.

The railroad line made ship traffic over the Allegheny Mountains possible, thus connecting the Ohio River with the Susquehanna. This was a significant achievement in the transportation history of the United States, as it allowed for the movement of goods and people across difficult terrain.

The Railroaders Memorial Museum (RMM) is a significant destination for those interested in the history of railroads, particularly in the central Pennsylvania region. The museum, located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, provides a comprehensive look into the lives of railroad workers and the communities they formed. It offers a particular focus on Altoona, the Altoona Works, and the greater Pittsburgh area, making it a rich source of local history.

The Cornwall Iron Furnace is a significant historical site located in Cornwall Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. It is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is managed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the industrial past of Lebanon County and the broader Pennsylvania region.

The Scranton Iron Furnaces is a significant historical site that showcases the heritage of iron making in Pennsylvania. This American manufacturing site offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to understand the importance of iron production in the country's history. It's a place where you can learn about the industrial revolution and the role that Pennsylvania played in it.

The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum, located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is a unique institution dedicated to the heritage of firefighting. It offers a comprehensive look into the history and evolution of firefighting, making it an interesting destination for those interested in this field.

The Bost Building currently serves as the headquarters and visitor center for the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area. This makes it a central point for tourists interested in exploring the area's industrial, social, and cultural history. The building houses a museum that features displays and exhibits related to the area's history, including two restored rooms reflecting the 1892 Homestead Strike and a room dedicated to the Homestead Steel Works.

The Coplay Cement Company Kilns, also known as the Saylor Park Industrial Museum, is an open-air historic site. It is located in Coplay, Pennsylvania, in Lehigh County. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of the cement industry in the area, and to appreciate the architectural and industrial heritage of the region.

Fort Roberdeau, also known as The Lead Mine Fort, is a historic fort situated in Tyrone Township, just outside Altoona, Pennsylvania. This fort holds a significant place in history and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and explore a piece of American history.

The Compass Inn is a historic site located in Laughlintown, Ligonier Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. This inn and tavern has a rich history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. It's a great place for history enthusiasts and those interested in the local culture.

The Electric City Trolley Museum is a transport museum situated in the heart of downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania. It is conveniently located next to the Steamtown National Historic Site, making it an ideal destination for those interested in the history of transportation and railroads. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of trolleys and interurbans in the region.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania, situated at 300 North Street in downtown Harrisburg, is a significant cultural institution managed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The museum's primary role is to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the region, making it a valuable resource for visitors interested in Pennsylvania's rich heritage.

The Drake Well Museum and Park is a significant site that interprets the birth of the American oil industry. This historical event took place in 1859 by "Colonel" Edwin Drake along the banks of Oil Creek in Cherrytree Township, Venango County, Pennsylvania. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing this important part of American history.

The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, located in Washington, Pennsylvania, is dedicated to the operation and preservation of streetcars and trolleys. The museum's collection primarily consists of historic trolleys from Pennsylvania, but also includes examples from Toledo, Ohio, New Orleans, and even an open-sided car from Brazil. Many of these trolleys have been painstakingly restored to operating condition.

The Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic site that was once the city's second municipal waterworks. It was designed in 1812 by Frederick Graff and constructed over a period of 60 years from 1812 to 1872. The waterworks was operational until 1909 and during its time, it was highly praised for its design and became a popular tourist attraction.

Bicycle Heaven, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, holds the distinction of being the world's largest transportation museum dedicated solely to bicycles. This unique museum was founded by Craig Morrow and houses his personal collection of bicycles gathered over many years.

The Carbondale Historical Society, located in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, operates a local history museum situated on the third floor of the Carbondale City Hall and Courthouse. This museum is a testament to the city's rich history and heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the past and learn about the city's evolution over the years.

America on Wheels is a transportation museum located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. It is dedicated to the history and evolution of over-the-road transportation, showcasing a variety of vehicles from different eras. The museum provides an educational and engaging experience for visitors of all ages, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in automotive history.

The National Canal Museum, located in Easton, Pennsylvania, is the Signature Program of the Delaware Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. This museum is a significant part of the heritage corridor, offering visitors a chance to delve into the history and significance of canals in the region. The museum is a part of the larger Hugh Moore Historical Park Museums, which includes several other attractions.

Wilbur Chocolate, a brand under the umbrella of Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate North America, has a significant part of its production based in Lititz, Pennsylvania. This location is not just a manufacturing site, but also a place where the rich history of Wilbur Chocolate unfolds.

The Rockhill Trolley Museum, located in Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania, is a heritage railway and museum dedicated to the collection and restoration of trolley, interurban, and transit cars. This unique museum offers visitors a chance to explore the history of public transportation through its extensive collection of restored vehicles.

The National Toy Train Museum (NTTM) is situated at 300 Paradise Lane, in Strasburg, Pennsylvania, USA. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and fascinating world of toy trains.

The Bradford County Museum, located in Towanda, Bradford County, Pennsylvania, is a local history museum that offers a unique experience as it is housed in the former Bradford County Jail building. This historical building adds an extra layer of interest to the museum, making it a unique destination for those interested in local history and architecture.

The Newlin Mill Complex, also known as The Newlin Grist Mill, is a significant historical site in Concord Township, Pennsylvania. The water-powered gristmill was built in 1704 by Nathaniel and Mary Newlin and remained in commercial operation until 1941. This long history of operation gives the mill a unique place in the local history and makes it a fascinating site for visitors interested in historical architecture and industrial heritage.

The Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum, located in McDade Park in Scranton, is dedicated to preserving the heritage of anthracite coal mining in Pennsylvania. This museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the history of coal mining in the region, offering a glimpse into the industrial past of northeastern Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Lumber Museum is situated near Galeton, in Potter County, Pennsylvania, United States. This museum is dedicated to documenting the history and technology of the lumber industry, which played a significant role in the economic development and ecological transformation of Pennsylvania.

The AACA Museum, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of American automobiles. Despite its name, it is not affiliated with the Antique Automobile Club of America. The museum is home to a vast collection of over 130 cars, buses, motorcycles, and automobile collectibles displayed in themed settings from different eras ranging from the 1890s to the 1980s.

The East Broad Top Railroad (EBT) is a narrow-gauge railway situated in Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania, to the east of the Rocky Mountains. This railway, with a track gauge of 914 mm, is one of the oldest and best-preserved narrow-gauge railways in the United States. It was in regular operation from 1871 to 1956 and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Today, it serves as a tourist attraction.

Nitre Hall, a nineteenth-century American building, is situated in Haverford Township, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. This historic building was recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, marking its significance in American history.

The Broad Top Area Coal Miners Museum, curated by Ron Morgan, is dedicated to documenting the history of the isolated Broad Top Coal Field in south central Pennsylvania. The museum provides a deep dive into the region's coal mining history, offering a unique perspective on the industry that shaped the area.

The Donora Smog Museum is a unique institution that houses a collection of archival materials documenting the Donora Smog of 1948. This tragic event was an air inversion of smog containing fluorine that resulted in the death of 20 people in Donora, Pennsylvania. The museum provides a detailed account of this event, offering visitors a chance to delve into a significant part of the town's history.

Lock Ridge Park, located just outside Alburtis, Pennsylvania, is a unique park that has been built around a historic iron ore blast furnace. This park is situated in the Lehigh Valley region of eastern Pennsylvania, an area known for its rich history and natural beauty. The park serves as a preservation site for parts of the former Lock Ridge Iron Works, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's industrial past.

The Flatiron Building, situated in the Brownsville Commercial Historic District in Pennsylvania, is a significant landmark. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past of this vibrant community.

The William E. Swigart Jr. Antique Automobile Museum, situated in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, is a non-profit institution committed to preserving the history of American automobiles. The museum was born out of the private passion of founder W. Emmert Swigart around 1920 and officially opened its doors to the public in 1957. It is a testament to the evolution of the automobile industry and serves as a rich resource for those interested in the history of American cars.

The Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum, located in Horsham, Pennsylvania, is a significant institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the aviation history of the Greater Delaware Valley. This includes the history of NAS Willow Grove and Harold F. Pitcairn. The museum provides an opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich aviation history of the region and learn about the significant contributions of these historical figures and institutions.

The complex includes a four-family stone Workers' Housing unit built in 1828, an attached store from 1845, and the archaeological remains of two mills: William Crosley's Woolen Mill, which operated from 1828 to 1861, and Casper S. Garrett's Union Paper Mill, which ran from 1869 to 1889. These elements together provide a comprehensive view of the industrial history of the area.

The Rough and Tumble Engineers Historical Association is known for organizing one of the oldest Threshermen’s Reunions in the United States. This event takes place annually in the middle of August, from Wednesday through Saturday, in Kinzers, Pennsylvania. It's a great opportunity for visitors to experience a piece of American agricultural history.