Big Boy’s Northeast Tour: Your Guide to Montgomery County, PA
Union Pacific’s famous Big Boy No. 4014 train will be journeying to the east coast for the first time ever from May to July! Big Boy is the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, and its historic coast-to-coast tour will be in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. This trip is in collaboration with Norfolk Southern Railroad, bringing the locomotive back to communities that helped power America’s industrial rise.
Big Boy, aptly named for its length of 133 feet and weight of 1.2 million pounds, was built in 1944 to haul heavy freight over the Wasatch Range. It was designed for World War II-era freight demands and, after nearly six decades of retirement, No. 4014 was restored to operation in 2019! Montgomery County, PA is the perfect place to view Big Boy pass through. During your trip to see the legendary locomotive, immerse yourself in the county’s outdoor adventures, rich American history, top-tier shopping, and unforgettable entertainment.
Where to Spot Big Boy
Catch sight of Big Boy and possibly hear its iconic whistle blow at the following towns and locations throughout Montgomery County! Click here to stay updated on the locomotive’s whereabouts with Union Pacific’s updated schedule.
Pottstown Train Station
The locomotive will arrive at Montgomery County’s Pottstown Train Station on July 2. Times are subject to change, so check out the train’s current itinerary here!
Areas to Visit
King of Prussia
Just minutes from many rail viewing locations, King of Prussia serves as an ideal home base for visitors traveling to see Big Boy. Enjoy world-class shopping at the King of Prussia mall, diverse dining options, and convenient hotel accommodations. The area allows Montgomery County residents and visitors to combine a once-in-a-lifetime rail experience with entertainment, history, and relaxation.
Bridgeport
This scenic town offers a convenient location to experience the excitement of Big Boy as it travels through Montgomery County! With its close proximity to regional rail lines and riverfront trails, Bridgeport provides a welcoming small-town atmosphere for families and all locomotive fans. Explore local restaurants, breweries, and nearby outdoor recreation while enjoying easy access to the Schuylkill River Trail, King of Prussia, and Valley Forge. Big Boy is even expected to travel through Bridgeport as it makes it's way towards Philadelphia!
Schuylkill River Trail - Conshohocken
The scenic route provides visitors with unique vantage points to view the train while enjoying one of southeastern Pennsylvania’s most popular outdoor recreation destinations. Stretching alongside the Schuylkill River through picturesque towns and natural landscapes, the trail offers opportunities for biking, walking, photography, and sightseeing. Turn your train-viewing experience into a full day of outdoor adventure while exploring Montgomery County’s charming riverfront communities! For optimal train viewing, follow the Trail in Conshohocken where you can view the tracks from across the scenic Schuylkill River.
Travel Tip: Take Regional Rail to the Spring Mill Station where it will drop you off in Conshohocken along the trail.
Where to Stay
Montgomery County offers a wide range of hotels, boutique inns, and family-friendly accommodations. Many are just minutes from key Big Boy viewing locations like Bridgeport and Conshohocken, making travel simple and convenient!
Marriott Philadelphia West
Conveniently located near the scenic Schuylkill River Trail, in West Conshohocken, the Marriott Philadelphia West offers visitors a modern and relaxing stay while exploring Montgomery County during Big Boy’s east coast tour. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations, an indoor pool, and easy access to outdoor recreation and rail viewing locations along the Schuylkill River corridor. Its location near major highways also makes it convenient for travelers planning to explore Valley Forge and King of Prussia.
Train Tip: The tracks used by Norfolk Southern run between Bliss Road and Bar Harbor Drive, which is directly behind the hotel on the Schuylkill River side.
Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Conshohocken
The Residence Inn’s Conshohocken location offers spacious suites with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and nearby access to Conshohocken’s lively shopping and dining options! Guests can also enjoy scenic riverfront attractions and rail viewing opportunities near the Schuylkill River Trail.
Train Tip: The hotel is within walking distance of the SRT, without needing to leave Conshohocken, you can walk towards the trail and view the train as it passes by across the Schuylkill River!
Hotel West & Main
Blending boutique charm with modern comfort, Hotel West & Main offers visitors a stylish stay near the Schuylkill River Trail and Montgomery County’s most scenic riverfront communities. Located in the heart of Conshohocken, the hotel places guests within walking distance of popular restaurants, local nightlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Its proximity to the Schuylkill River Trail makes it an excellent option for travelers looking to combine train watching, sightseeing, and a relaxing weekend getaway.
Residence Inn by Marriott Philadelphia Bala Cynwyd
For visitors hoping to stay close to Philadelphia-area rail corridors, the Residence Inn’s Bala Cynwyd location offers a convenient and comfortable location near several train routes. Bala Cynwyd is also surrounded by historical attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Fairmount Park, and Boathouse Row!
Train Tip: The tracks used by Norfolk Southern run in front of the hotel, on the Schuylkill Expressway side.
Hilton Garden Inn Valley Forge/Oaks
This comfortable hotel off Route 422 is within walking distance of the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center and numerous shopping and dining spots! The King of Prussia Mall is less than a 10-minute drive away from the hotel. The inn comes with perks like its own restaurant, an indoor pool, and a patio with a fire pit.
Sheraton Valley Forge
Conveniently located near many of the region’s top rail viewing locations, the Sheraton Valley Forge hotel offers visitors a comfortable and centrally located home base for a Montgomery County getaway. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and easy access to the King of Prussia Town Center and King of Prussia Mall!
For more planning resources and recommended stays closest to your destination, visit ValleyForge.org.
Dining in Montgomery County
Stop by True Food in King of Prussia for a delicious and healthy lunch on a day packed with culture and sightseeing! The menu features seasonal ingredients, globally inspired flavors, and deliciously nutritious options. Popular dishes include salads, bowls, pizzas, sandwiches, and numerous vegetarian-friendly foods.
Founding Farmers King of Prussia
After a day of train watching and sightseeing, unwind at Founding Farmers, a popular destination known for its farm-inspired menu and welcoming atmosphere. Featuring hearty comfort food, seasonal ingredients, and spacious dining areas, the restaurant offers something for everyone! It's convenient location near Bridgeport and King of Prussia makes it an easy addition to any itinerary.
Fayette Street Restaurants
Visitors staying in Conshohocken can experience one of Montgomery County’s most vibrant and walkable downtown districts along Fayette Street, a lively corridor filled with restaurants, cafés, bars, and local gathering spots! Just steps from the Schuylkill River Trail, Fayette Street offers tourists an energetic small-town atmosphere with numerous dining options. Enjoy coffee and a filling omelet, a serving of French toast, or a stack of pancakes at Nudy’s Cafe, stop for lunch at the StoneRose Restaurant or Southern Cross Kitchen, and unwind with an evening at the Great American Pub!
Experience Local Events & History
Montgomery County Houses of Declaration
Celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th birthday with the Houses of Declaration! In 1776, the Declaration of Independence spread across America through public readings in town squares and taverns, which inspired unity and patriotism across the newly independent country. From July 3-5, relive this crucial aspect of history through powerful live readings. Check out ValleyForge.org for more information regarding the locations and times of these readings.
Pennypacker Mills
Step into a dynamic piece of American history with a visit to this Colonial Revival estate! Pennypacker Mills was used as George Washington’s headquarters during the American Revolutionary War, and it was restored by Pennsylvania Governor Samuel Pennypacker in 1985. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours of the mansion and view an extensive collection of original furniture and antiques! The historic site also hosts special events and workshops. Read more about the mansion and view available times for tours here!
American Treasure Tour Museum
Step into a world of nostalgia at a museum that is home to an extraordinary collection of vintage American artifacts, dazzling displays of classic cars, music machines, old-fashioned signage, carnival art, and pop culture memorabilia. You can ride through the museum aboard a guided tram tour, making it an unforgettable stop for families, history lovers, and anyone fascinated by transportation and mechanical innovation! Its unique atmosphere perfectly complements the excitement of experiencing the legendary Big Boy steam locomotive. Purchase tickets for the museum here!
Enhance Your Experience
Visitor Experience Passes
Discover Valley Forge and Montgomery County, PA in a whole new way! Our visitor experience passes offer adventures based on your interests. Each pass is free, easily accessible on your phone, and fun to complete. You can earn free prizes with some of the passes, too. Get your pass here, and go out and explore!
With Big Boy passing through Montgomery County during the 4th of July weekend, the region will be buzzing with events, history programs, and community experiences! Celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime train tour, immerse yourself in the county’s rich culture, and check out ValleyForge.org for more travel tips and information.