Murder Mystery Train Ride - Advised to arrive by 4:30pm to check in at the Moose Lodge. After check in was complete we sat at a large table awaiting dinner to be served. Dinner buffet options were under cooked baked chicken, overcooked frozen mixed veggies, boxed fettuccine Alfredo with broccoli, iceberg salad, mix, roast beef roll ups, boxed Mashed potatoes and a roll. The food was not appetizing at all, very bland and seems like it should’ve been an optional purchase. Drink options were hot tea or ice water and maybe coffee. There is a full bar onsite and drinks were inexpensive, ($3.00 mixed drinks) so if you wanted something to drink besides hot tea and ice water you could purchase it at the bar.
Before dinner was complete we were introduced to the actors and actresses. The host advised to listen for clues on the train ride to solve the murder mystery. we then had to get in our cars drive about 5 to 7 minutes away to the train. Once we arrived at the train station (;6:30pm) there was someone outside selling cans of soda out of a cooler available for purchase prior to boarding the train. alcohol beverages were not allowed to be consumed on the train. Everyone boarded the train,, we were advised safety rules, and precautions prior to departure .
The train seats were small, the train had no air-conditioning, the train was old, one restroom on board. we took a train ride to South Dayton, New York, which was approximately 45 minutes away from the Gowanda Station. The actors came and did a few skits while the train was headed to our stop and self Dayton. The website states that this particular train ride (the murder mystery ride) is for is suitable for children. I would have to disagree some of the lines they used in their skits were raunchy and x-rated. They talked about drugs, sex and adultery in a joking manner but I feel it’s inappropriate for a small children.
Once we arrived At the self date and station, we were able to get off for 15 mins to visit the local farmers market selling baked goods and fruits and vegetables. Some of the baked goods were burnt, and some coolies had mold on them. After the stop we proceeded back to gowanda, a few more skits were performed simmer were interactive. Once we got back to the station (8:30pm) we had to drive our cars back to the moose lodge for Dessert (small piece of cake) and to try to solve the murder mystery.
Cons: The train ride was appx 1.5 hours spent on the train ride. Having to drive to different locations was inconvenient, The food was disgusting, and some of the actors were rude at times. this train ride is extremely overpriced.
Pros: Learned there’s a South Dayton...
Read moreWent for the Mystery Train and it was lots of fun. Staff and actors were great. Stayed in character even when interacting with guests. Food at Mouse Lodge was better then expected. Baked goods were for sale at the stop in S. Dayton. Mystery was interesting and you had to look at clues and pay attention. We got 2 out of the 3 answers. The train ride was fun. There was a very rowdy bunch (too much to drink) but the staff handled well and once they were notified they paid even more attention to the bunch. Second 1/2 of the train ride was much better. Notes: dress warm if cold outside. seats on train the backs move to allows a group of 4 to sit face to face (At least on the car #6). Ask the actors questions and pay attention - if you want to try and solve. Will do again and will recommend. Thanks for a...
Read moreA great ride with the Dingman's and friendly staff. Locomotives recently painted and lots of continued improvements to all equipment make this ride worth a visit. The beautiful scenery in Cattaraugus country looks amazing in fall and the farmers market in South Dayton is cute as is the museum. Lots to look at during the brief stop to stretch your legs in South Dayton as the market has a few vendors including food and drinks. On board snacks and drinks are cheap - a buck for a pop. The ride was only $21. Come ride with the Dingman's and staff who are more than just smiling to welcome you. Remember this ride has zero artificial intelligence - It is all 100% real and as it has been since Mr. Dingman started it in 1978. Some of the coaches on this train are almost 100 years old: you are...
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