To piggyback on The Mommy Guide’s review of the Strasburg Railroad, it’s a MUST on the “to do list” for little boys and little girls alike to check out when you’re visiting the Lancaster, PA Dutch Amish area. I just so happened to be in town visiting family on the weekend of “Day Out With Thomas” – an event held on select dates at the Strasburg Railroad. There were billboards advertising it all along Lincoln Highway, so there was no way we were missing out on this. As if Strasburg Railroad wasn’t already cool enough with real live massive old steam engines, “A Day Out With Thomas” adds about 1000 bonus points. My kids in particular are obsessed with Thomas and Friends, so for them this was a real trip. It’s like taking a trip to the Island of Sodor. A true live personified Thomas the Tank Engine, whose eyes open and close, chugs along spouting black smoke up to the station.
The crowd grows wild with anticipation, cheers to greet Thomas once he arrives and then it’s time to board! All board the antique caboose, hand their tickets to the friendly conductor, and enjoy an approximately 20 minute relaxing ride through the Amish countryside before returning to the station. Afterwards, there are photo opportunities with Sir Topham Hat and apparently other trains such as Percy and James, however, my kids had already reached their threshold and it was time for us to go. A few tips – if you can avoid bringing a stroller, you should. You park in a grass field quite a distance away from the Railroad and must board a schoolbus to the actual site. You also cannot bring your stroller onto the actual trains themselves, so it’s kind of pointless. Definitely check out all of the little souvenir shops that sell train themed trinkets, toys, t-shirts and whatever else you can get your hands on. The whole experience was a bit costly, but worth every penny ($19 per person over the age of 2) Purchase tickets in advance online to make sure you reserve your spot. Also, the photo ops are awesome because even though they have their own photographers, they do allow you to use your own cameras. We bought one photo, but had an abundance of pictures that are "frame worthy". If you can, book your tickets to the next available “Day Out With Thomas” ASAP. This is not something to miss! Be sure to arrive a good hour before your departure time so you can park, take the bus, take potty breaks, etc. without feeling rushed. I also suggest getting on line a good half hour or so before departure so you can be in the front and one of the first to board and greet our friend Thomas as he pulls into the station. It’s kind of a big deal! Reviews on Strasburg Railroad and Amish Village!
What else is going on at the Strasburg Railroad this year!
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