When we planned our last Lancaster trip, the first part of the plan was this. Finally seeing Thomas the Train in all his glory. Ryan loves trains and Thomas especially. We saved our Day Out with Thomas the Train for our departure date since the train ride is about 30 minutes long and we figured we could head home early in the day. There were lots of things to do after the train ride though, including meeting Sir Topham Hat and a good number of photo opportunities and shopping.
The Strasburg Railroad is a wonderful place to visit year-round and we spend time there whenever we’re in the Lancaster area. Founded during Andrew Jackson’s first term, Strasburg is America’s oldest short line railroad. I’m always taken with this antique train and it’s ornateness.
Emma doesn’t remember her first visit, and it was Ryan’s first time so we had the excitement factor going for sure. And that was before they noticed Thomas, who now talks and moves his eyes. There were other rides to enjoy but it was a very hot day so we didn’t do it all. The live entertainment and train table play area was great (and shaded).
We paid about $16 for this one photo with Thomas which is a really terrible shot of us but we wanted a photo to document the occasion and include the entire family. I don’t like overpaying for things but this is par for the course with events like this. I always buy ornaments when we take trips, so we bought one of those in the store too.
If you have a Thomas fan in your house, this is a must-do. Day out with Thomas will return in September – Thomas days usually last about 2 weeks. I’d recommend booking an early ride time to beat the crowd and avoid long lines and drama.
Disclosure: Our family received complimentary passes for Day Out with Thomas.
My son loved Thomas when he was little. This looks like such a fun event!
Oh my daughter would have so loved this but unfortunately he’s not coming my way. Thanks for sharing.
I took my son to do this when he was a baby. Well, toddler! :) It was so much fun!
I didn’t know this place existed. I’ll have to tell my daughter about it.
We have yet to do this and I so need to since all three kiddos LOVE Thomas! Thanks for the reminder!