Ride a newly restored steam-powered train in Ohio

JEFFERSON, Ohio –– Ride in vintage coaches from 1925 and 1933 behind a steam-powered switch engine on the Ashtabula, Carson & Jefferson Scenic Line on Aug. 30 and 31. This former line to Pittsburgh has not seen steam in more than 50 years.

The boarding site is two blocks east of Ohio routes 46 and 307, adjacent to 161 E. Jefferson St. in Jefferson Ohio in Ashtabula County. The engine was restored between 2004 and 2007 with private funds to working condition. It is scheduled to arrive by flatbed truck on Aug. 29 from Dunkirk, N.Y.

The Jefferson Lions Club, as a fundraiser, will provide a picnic style lunch adjacent to the train platform.

Departures both days will be at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Fares are $15 for adults, $10 for those 2 to 12; free for those under 2.

Info and reservations: www.familytrainrides.com or 440-576-6346 or 216-759-5772.



Fuel for adventure can be found in Butler County

BUTLER COUNTY — Butler County Tourism and Convention Bureau suggests these ideas to “Fuel Your Sense of Adventure”:

• Drive to Butler County and find an adventure — There are more than 60 historical sites, Pennsylvania’s largest manmade lake, the state’s only protected prairie, golf courses and agritourism.

• Small towns make big impressions — Land in Mars and see a flying saucer. Learn about the production of the first miltary jeep in Butler. Listen to tales about John Roebling, the designer of the Brooklyn Bridge who lived in Saxonburg.

• Celibate communal groups lived harmoniously — Harmony National Historic Landmark District was founded in 1804 by Harmony Society of German Lutheran Separatists and became the 19th century’s most successful communal group. Since the Harmonites practiced celibay, tours are the only way to learn about them.

• Butler County is a long way from Brooklyn — Saxonburg Historical District and Museum features a Main Street historic district composed of 1835 to 1880s buildings with markers identifying 40 structures.

• East meets West — The Maridon Museum is home to a collection Asian art spanning 300 B.C. to the 20th century.

• Get into the outdoors — Moraine State Park is the third largest park in Pennsylvania.

Info: 866-856-8444; or online: www.visitbutlercounty.com

• Slippery Rock University, where a ghost is said to haunt theatrical productions.

• North Country Brewery microbrewery and restaurant filled with wood carvings and sculptures.

• Playthings, Etc., a toy store made to resemble a stealth bomber.

• Jennings Environmental Education Center has the only protected prairie in Pennsylvania.

The Butler County Farm Tour is set for October. The county also boasts 13 golf courses within 30 minutes of each other. “Regatta at Lake Arthur” in August draws 50,000 visitors to Moraine State Park

“Butler County Family Fun Card” offers discounts to about 50 attractions, restaurants and accommodations. Call 866-856-8444.

Info: Patti Jo Lambert, Butler County Tourism and Convention Bureau public relations specialist, 724-869-0740; or e-mail: pjlambert@visitbutlercounty.com



Lehigh Valley coupons, discounts available

LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa. — Travelers to the Lehigh Valley region can make their trip affordable with the updated 2008-09 “Lehigh Valley Coupons & Discounts” brochure.

The 26-page publication has more than 40 special discounts arranged into categories including activities, arts and culture, lodging and restaurants.

Discounts vary and include buy one admission, get one free; dollar-off and or percentage-off admission; and special rates on hotel rooms. Coupon expiration dates also vary but most are valid until May 31.

Travelers simply present the coupon when ordering, at the admission desk or at the time of purchase. Some restrictions apply.

For a brochure call Lehigh Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, 800-747-0561; online: www.LehighValleyPA.org or pick one up in are hotels and attractions.