Designated an engineering marvel, World Famous Horseshoe Curve is a national historic landmark. Getting a train through the great Allegheny Mountains before the early 1850s was unthinkable. Yet, that changed with ingenious engineering and the steadfast labor of Irish immigrants carving away earth and rock to create a 2,375-foot horseshoe-shaped passage through the hills. After opening for business in 1854, the Curve easily became a must-see tourism destination.
Today, visitors from around the globe trek to the World Famous Horseshoe Curve to reflect on its incredible past and compelling scenery. The site includes a small museum, orientation films, observation areas, and gift shop. Ride the funicular or walk 194 beautiful landscaped steps to the tracks to view the trains.
For more insight into the World Famous Horseshoe Curve, check out the Railroaders Memorial Museum, full of fascinating relics and the historical stories of Central Pennsylvanians who left an imprint on their communities, industry, and nation.
