Bicycles aren't the only vehicles on the loose this month. Saturday, May 12, is National Train Day, marking the 143rd anniversary of the creation of the nation's first transcontinental railroad.
Kids have a soft spot (and sometimes an obsession) for trains, and they are awe-inspiring. In honor of National Train Day, here’s a list of ways to enjoy them this month. Take your family out for a scenic ride, check out one of the events, or pack a picnic and do some train watching. It's fun to see your child's amazement as the behemoths barrel down the track.
Train Watching
One of the best train-watching spots is the Olympic Sculpture Park on the waterfront in downtown Seattle. Parents can take in some art and kids can watch the trains pass by. Enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains and Puget Sound on a sunny day, too.
At two very special sites, Carkeek Park in North Seattle and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park in Shoreline, pedestrian overpasses offer families a chance to station themselves right over the train tracks. It can be loud and intimidating for young children, who may choose to watch from a distance, or super cool for kids who are ready for the thrill.
A bit farther afield, travel on Highway 2 between Monroe and Sultan; the road runs parallel to the tracks. Kids will get a kick out of driving alongside the train as you head down the highway. Make an afternoon of it and check out the reptiles at the Washington Serpentarium or stop by the Sultan Bakery for some gigantic cinnamon rolls (a word to the wise, they sell out early).
To get up close and personal with the miniature version, the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma showcases a permanent model train exhibit, put together by the Puget Sound Model Railroad Engineers. The Imagine Children's Museum in Everett also has a well-loved model train set, along with a mountain of toy trains.
Train Rides
Not much beats an actual trip on a train for kids. The speed, sound and scenery are sure to please all members of the family. The Northwest Railway Museum is a popular destination, with a 75-minute excursion that departs each Saturday and Sunday from Snoqualmie or North Bend. Extra train rides are available on Memorial Day.
If you are up for a road trip, check out the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad and Museum for a memorable trip on one of the few remaining steam-powered passenger railroads in the state. Or, enjoy the forest and meadows below the majestic white cap of Mount Rainier on Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad's steam train. However, don't plan your visit until the weekend of May 25, when both venue’s regular seasons begin.
For an amusing trip aboard a pint-sized train, visit County Village in Bothell, Fox Hollow Family Farm in Issaquah or Remlinger Farms in Carnation. These locations offer train rides and all-around family fun.
And finally, enjoy a Mother's Day train event:
Mothers Ride Free at the Northwest Railway Museum (Saturday, May 12, and Sunday, May 13, various departures between 11 a.m. and 4:40 p.m.)
Moms get to enjoy an hour-long scenic trip through the Cascade foothills for free (with a paying child of any age). Trains depart from Snoqualmie or North Bend. 38625 S.E. King St., Snoqualmie; 205 McClellan St., North Bend. www.trainmuseum.org.
Mother’s Day Train Ride at Lake Whatcom Railway (Saturday, May 12, noon)
Mothers ride for half-price on this vintage passenger train, when accompanied by another paying passenger. Seating is limited, and advance tickets are recommended. The station is just north of Sedro-Woolley on State Highway 9. www.lakewhatcomrailway.com.
Mother’s Day Brunch Train at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad (Sunday, May 13, 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.)
A real treat, this event includes a gourmet brunch at the pristine Mineral Lake and a fresh flower corsage as Mom boards the train. 54124 Mountain Highway E., Elbe. www.mrsr.com.
Mother’s Day Brunch and Dinner Train at Chehalis-Centralia Railroad (Sunday, May 13, 1 and 5 p.m.)
Take a memorable two-hour trip in a refurbished 1920s dining car while enjoying a vintage dining-by-rail experience. 1101 Sylvenus St., Chehalis. www.steamtrainride.com.
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Source: http://www.seattleschild.com/article/train-spotting-and-riding
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