Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is rolling through Pennsylvania this summer for the first time ever. Here’s everything you need to plan your trip around the most anticipated train event in a generation.
What Is Big Boy No. 4014?
Big Boy No. 4014 is the world’s largest operating steam locomotive — stretching over 130 feet long and weighing more than one million pounds. Built in 1941 to haul heavy freight through the Rocky Mountains, it’s one of only eight surviving Big Boy locomotives and the only one still running today.
This summer, as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration, Union Pacific is sending Big Boy on a historic coast-to-coast tour — its first-ever journey to the East Coast. The eastern leg runs on Norfolk Southern rails, making this a genuine once-in-a-generation moment for rail fans, families, and anyone who appreciates American history in motion.
When and Where to See Big Boy in Montgomery County and Philadelphia
Big Boy makes two nearby appearances you won’t want to miss:
- Pottstown, Montgomery County, on Thursday, July 2: Big Boy arrives at 3:30 PM and departs at 3:45 PM from the Pottstown Train Station.
- Philadelphia on July 4-5: Big Boy will be on public display from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM at Intrepid Avenue and League Island Boulevard. No tickets required.
Both stops put Montgomery County in a sweet spot: close enough to catch the Pottstown whistle-stop, then make a long weekend of it in Philly for the Fourth of July display, all while using the Valley Forge/King of Prussia area as your home base.
Where to Stay in Montgomery County
With Big Boy drawing massive crowds to the region, booking early is key. Montgomery County offers a wide range of hotels within easy driving distance of both stops, from full-service properties near King of Prussia to comfortable options in Pottstown itself.
Check availability and book accommodations here.
Where to Eat Before or After the Stop
Pottstown and the surrounding Montgomery County area have a growing dining scene worth exploring around your Big Boy visit. From local spots downtown to well-known regional favorites, there’s no shortage of places to fuel up before heading trackside.
Browse Montgomery County restaurants here.
What Else to Do While You’re in the Area
A Big Boy trip is a great excuse to spend more time in Montgomery County. A few highlights worth adding to your itinerary:
- Valley Forge National Historical Park: One of the most significant Revolutionary War sites in the country, just minutes from King of Prussia. Free to visit, and fitting given America’s 250th celebration happening all summer.
- Elmwood Park Zoo (Norristown): A local favorite for families, with over 200 animals and a full calendar of summer events.
- Skippack Village: A charming walkable stretch of independent shops, galleries, and restaurants worth a leisurely afternoon.
- King of Prussia Mall: One of the largest shopping destinations on the East Coast, if you need to fill time before or after the train stop.
Explore more things to do here.
Tips for Seeing Big Boy
A few things to keep in mind before you go:
- The Pottstown stop is a brief 15-minute whistle-stop — arrive well before 3:30 PM and plan for crowds.
- The Philadelphia July 4–5 display is free and open to the public; no tickets needed.
- Check Union Pacific for the most current schedule, as times and stops can shift.
- Bring a camera. Seriously.
Plan Your Visit
Montgomery County is easy to reach from anywhere in the Philadelphia metro area and sits right between the Pottstown and Philadelphia stops. Whether you’re making a day of it or turning the Fourth of July weekend into a full getaway, the Valley Forge region has everything you need.
Start planning now at Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board.
