There’s always so much to do at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum!
We have so many exciting events coming up in these next few months. This includes Free Kid February- sponsored by Alex E. Paris Contracting! Thanks to the company’s generosity, children ages 3-18 can enjoy free admission for the entire month of February 2025. Kids can explore our interactive exhibits, take a 4-mile round-trip trolley ride, and discover our historic streetcar collection, all at no cost! Children 2 and under can enjoy free admission like always, and Adults and Seniors (ages 62+) may purchase tickets at our General Admission prices.
The fun doesn’t stop there- continue reading to learn about everything we have planned for kids, adults, and visitors of all ages! You can also click here to explore our Events Calendar!
Trolley Tots
Third Thursday of every month, 10:30 AM- 11:30 AM
This new program is designed for early learners (ages 2-5) and allows children to discover different types of transportation through sensory play, stories, crafts, music, and getting up-close with the vehicle of the month!
Upcoming programs:
January 24: Snow Plows (This is a FRIDAY due to rescheduling.)
February 20: Safety vehicles (fire trucks and police cars)
March 20: Bicycles, motorcycles, and 2-wheeled vehicles
April 17: Tractors and farm equipment
May 15: Rockets
Cost:
- $25 for one child + one adult helper for non-members
- $5 for one child + one adult helper for members
- $10 for additional children in the same family group
- $10 for additional adults in the same family group
Sensory Friendly Hours
January 19, February 9, March 23, April 27, May 25, 10:00 AM- 1:00 PM
Explore the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum in a sensory-modified setting with quieter streetcars, lowered exhibit sounds, and soft lighting. Advanced registration is not required for this event. Tickets will be available at our General Admission prices.
Visitors will also have access to complimentary Sensory Bags. These bags, which may be requested at the front desk located in the museum store, include noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, sensory items, and a sensory guide.
Click here to see our Sensory Guide, which offers insight on the sensory stimulation of different parts of the museum. This was made with the help of the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. Click here to read more about this event!
Teacher Appreciation Weekend
January 25-26, 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
On January 25 and 26, all teachers presenting a valid school ID are invited to enjoy the Museum with free admission. Teachers will also have the opportunity to take home information about the Museum’s offerings of field trips, virtual field trips, and other educational resources.
Those who educate with a home school or institution without IDs may also enjoy free admission with proof that they serve in this role. General Admission rates apply to all other members of a teacher’s party.
Teddy Bear Trolley
February 15-16, 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Wear your PJs and bring your favorite teddy bear or stuffed animal to the Museum for a day full of teddy-rific activities! Enjoy a special story time, coloring stations, and an opportunity to get a photo in the trolley operator’s seat with your stuffed animal. The Museum store will also be selling a teddy bear of our own for those looking for a new friend!
This event is included with General Admission- which is free for kids (ages 0-18) in the month of February!
Volunteer Open House
March 8, 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Since our beginning as the Pittsburgh Electric Railway Club, PTM has relied on the passion of volunteers to keep the Trolley Era alive. Today, our volunteer team- 180+ participants strong- continues this mission. Through their efforts, the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum strives to inspire the next generation of innovators with our collection and programs.
You’re invited to join us on March 8, 2025 for our Volunteer Open House, where you’ll get to:
- Meet our volunteers! Connect with our team of trolley enthusiasts, educators, and community members of all ages
- Tour our maintenance and restoration shop and find out how you can help preserve vintage transportation
- Take a look at our collection from our transit archives. Our volunteers explore PA’s history through photos, maps, signage, artwork, and more
- Discover how you can become a trolley operator, serve as a museum guide, and help with our exciting holiday events
This event is free for those who register beforehand- click here to do so! Other visitors to the Museum that day must purchase General Admission tickets.
Vintage Communications Weekend
March 15-16, 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
This event highlights the communications technology of the Trolley Era. Explore antique radios, typewriters, printing presses, victrolas, phonographs, and more! This event is included with General Admission.
Do you collect a particular mode or method of vintage communication? Please reach out to Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org if you’d be willing to showcase your collection during this event!
Bunny Trolley
April 11-13, 18-19, 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Enjoy springtime at the Museum with the Easter Bunny! Go on a trolley ride through the forest, participate in a festive scavenger hunt and craft, and meet the famous bunny himself! Admission to this event requires the purchase of special tickets that will be available early this Spring.