Visited during the fall foliage trip and we had fun! We decided to pick later dates and we are SOO happy we did. The leaves were changing but it wasn't as widespread as you would think. It was a perfect day and everybody was super nice.we picked up our tickets, went to the bathroom and passed by the snack section. The prices for drinks and snacks were super reasonable! $1.25 for popcorn and nothing was over $3. We got to our seets and we thought that they turned arround and we could all sit together but couldn't figure it out. We sat and enjoyed out ride. The conductor came and explained to us what was going to happen and told us we could walk areound. It was such a good day that they had a open cart at the end that you could sit outside! There was also a snack cart on bord in case you missed on snacks. They came areound selling popcorn as well. The ride was nice to. our conductor came back and explained to us the history and asked questions we all had. Not even a half hour into our ride we arrived at our little stop and so we got off and walked arround. They had bathrooms, places to sit outside and inside. A little play area for the kids and pumpkins. We were there a while and I don't know why. They had some old carts decerated for halloween. We were there mabye almost a hour just walking arround and taking photos. I found a really cool place that nobody as arround and you got amazing views. If you go behind the food building, beautful views and nobody arround! At the food tent, they were selling hot dogs, Chilli, apple cider and doughnuts. They had places to sit inside and eat as well. After exploring for over a hour I think we finally got back on. One of the passengers noticed we were trying to figure out the pull out seets and figured it out for us!! We were so happy to be able to sit all together. (Ask the conductors before u leave to get this done before u leave!) Going back we sat outside under the sun and it felt great. Smoke was in our face but we had fun! We got back ahead of schedule as well!
Some tips!- Get there 30 mins before. TRUST ME. the line to get tickets is super long and bathrooms also. Boarding won't start till 45 after.
I saw some people bringing in there own snacks and drinks so it wasn't that uncommon.
They accept cash and card but mostly cash on the...
Read moreWanted to do something "different" with my 80 yr old aunt so booked tickets on the "Fall Foliage Ride". Had heard from others that the A&A was longer and better than the Medina version.
The train ride itself was fine...although the above head heat was tad too toasty. The train conductors were great! Good humored, knowledgeable and friendly. The story of the train and its acquistion is very interesting history!!
There was this cute older couple that went from cabin to cabin...he played an accordion and they both sang old songs that made everyone smile. Those that knew the songs joined in a bit. If you decide to take this ride please tip and/or at least clap!!
At the half way point, we stopped got out while train engine got "turned around". There's a shed type building that serves cider donuts, cider (both hot and cold), coffee, hot dogs and chili. Also a TINY gift shop area that sells jams, honey and few little jewelry items. My aunt bought the holiday jam...honestly we got it home excited to try it as it LOOKED yummy and ingredients sounded delightful but taste was totally bland.
On the trip back, they pass out free small bags of popcorn...
The bummer part of the trip was that we came to see FALL FOLIAGE...there really WASN'T ANY. I expected to ride thru areas of dense scenery and colors...we were sadly disappointed. We saw more foliage on the back road trek to and from home!!
It was a day spent doing something with my aunt so THAT...
Read moreOur family took the North Pole Express today and it was wonderful in every way. The whole event was organized and considerate of the children passengers. After taking off from the station, children were given a list to make for Santa and deliver in his mailbox. The ride was festive with Christmas music and the landscape was beautiful on a snowy day. Popcorn, candy, chips, and beverages were available for purchase on the train both ways. Once at the North Pole, there were many things to enjoy for the hour-long visit: reindeer, reindeer food to bring home, face painting, a wooden toy train to climb, and a refreshment stand with hot chocolate, coffee, hot dogs, cookies, etc. to purchase. There were also restrooms. The staff made it clear that everyone would have a chance to visit Santa and not to worry about waiting in line. My three-year old was amazed by his home and my husband and I were impressed. The decorations were outstanding with beautiful attention to detail. Santa himself was incredibly warm and friendly, welcoming each visitor in a way that made them comfortable. He talked with each child with full attention and gave out a treat bag. On the return trip, children were given a stuffed animal and the conductor punched each child's ticket in a special way. This event was a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season and we will...
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