How2Day: Family Train Trips

Steam engines are restored to their previous glory for train trips. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Once the main mode of transportation, trains have long been replaced by personal cars and jet planes. However, many railroads are running full steam with train trips available for family excursions. Experience the thrill of riding aboard the popular Thomas the Tank Engine or spending the afternoon sharing tea with other American Girl doll enthusiasts. The holidays become magical when Santa Claus steps on board the train, greeting your family with Christmas spirit.

Tour the scenic Connecticut and Williams rivers through the countryside of Vermont aboard a vintage diesel locomotive with the Green Mountain Railroad. View the Brockway Mills Gorge and see two historic covered bridges along the way. The Green Mountain Flyer train departs from the Bellows Falls Union Station with its restored ticket office and waiting room designed in the 1940s. Train trips last about two hours; family events, as well as holiday activities, are scheduled throughout the year. Younger girls travel on the American Girl-themed train ride with their American Girl doll as they participate in arts, crafts and reading about the dolls.

Children of all ages will be delighted to take a train ride during the holiday season with the storybook and television character, Thomas the Tank Engine. The train is a full-sized steam locomotive pulled by Thomas and travels all across the world for children to get the opportunity to spend the day with this popular train character. Thomas the Tank Engine departs from the Salsburg Railroad in Salsburg, Pennsylvania, every half-hour from Nov. 19-21, 2010, on Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Greet Sir Topham Hatt along the tour and participate in train-themed games and activities back at the station.

Travel with Tioga Central Railroad on board the Santa Express locomotive to get in the spirit of the holidays. Children and adults alike will be thrilled to take a train ride to the fictitious North Pole where they will pick up Santa Claus who comes bearing gifts for a trip to Wellsboro, Pennsylvania. Children are invited to bring their blankets and teddy bears, and encouraged to wear their fuzzy pajamas. Sip on hot chocolate as you watch the holiday light displays pass by. The Santa Express tour lasts about one hour and is operated from Nov. 20 through Dec. 12, 2010. Space is limited and reservations are recommended for this train trip.

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