Railroad Street Bar & Grill to Host Big Boy Watch Party in Linfield

One of the world's most famous locomotives is expected to roll through Linfield this week, and Railroad Street Bar & Grill is ready for it.

The restaurant, located directly beside the Norfolk Southern rail line in Limerick Township, will host a free, family-friendly watch party beginning at 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, ahead of the anticipated 4:03 p.m. passage of Union Pacific's legendary Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive.

The legendary Big Boy is making its first-ever trip to the East Coast as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration. The eastern leg of the journey will conclude with a Fourth of July celebration in Philadelphia.

Owner Mike McCloskey said he initially learned about the trip on social media before realizing the locomotive's route to Philadelphia would take it directly past his restaurant.

"It dawned on me that if it's going to Philadelphia, it's coming by here," McCloskey said. "It's clearly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see something that we've all never seen before."

For McCloskey, who has operated the restaurant beside the tracks for nearly two decades, trains have always been part of daily life. He's watched everything from regular freight traffic to the former Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus train pass by over the years.

"I don't care how old you are, it's always cool," he said. "And when it's a rare train, it makes it even better."

The event will feature barbecue-style food, drinks, lawn games, music from DJ Q-Ball, and free commemorative Big Boy magnets for the first 250 attendees. Additional magnets will be available for purchase. Guests are asked not to bring outside food, beverages, or coolers.

McCloskey expects spectators ranging from longtime railroad enthusiasts to families simply hoping to witness a piece of history.

Planning for a Large Crowd

Preparing for the event has involved far more than ordering food. McCloskey said Railroad Street Bar & Grill has coordinated with Norfolk Southern Police, Limerick Township Police, the Limerick Township Fire Department, and emergency medical personnel to create a safe viewing area.

Spectators will be required to remain behind caution tape at least 25 feet from the tracks, with designated viewing areas, a water station, and portable restrooms set up on the property. Hundreds of parking spaces will also be available on-site and nearby.

With temperatures expected to soar, organizers are encouraging visitors to stay hydrated throughout the afternoon.

"We want it to be a safe, family-fun event where we can all experience this," McCloskey said.

A Community Celebration

McCloskey emphasized there is no admission charge to attend the event.

"People keep asking us, 'How much does it cost?'" he said. "This is American history. It's something we should experience as a community."

While the restaurant will be selling food and drinks, spectators are welcome to watch the train for free.

For McCloskey, the train's arrival is a chance to create a lasting memory with his family and the community.

"I told my son this is once in a lifetime," McCloskey said.

His 15-year-old wasn't so sure.

"He goes, 'Maybe it is for you, but maybe it'll come back on the 300th and I'll be here,'" McCloskey recalled with a laugh. "I'm like, 'Yeah, great. Cool. Thanks, buddy.'"

Whether or not Big Boy No. 4014 returns in another 50 years, McCloskey hopes Thursday's watch party gives people the opportunity to see history roll through Linfield together.

Railroad Street Bar & Grill, located at 36 Railroad Street in Linfield, is open seven days a week.