Boys and girls of all ages like trains and train sets. They have played a vital role in the history of this country and Seattle, Washington and the Northwest in particular. In fact, the roles of trains in this region of the country have in the past been so critical that there are a few museums devoted to them. Trains were essential lifelines for the people here for many years. While their importance seems to be diminishing in today’s society, their importance throughout the history of our country remains.
If you truly are a train enthusiast, then it should not be difficult to talk you into stopping by Seattle’s Train Center before and after touring the museums devoted to trains and their vital role in history. The Train Center offers a wide selection of model train parts and pieces that would make excellent additions to your train set or a great beginning for a train set for you or your kids.
After you’ve whetted your appetite for trains and gotten your child all keyed up about them, it is time to take a walk back in time to the Northwest Railway Museum. Here you can learn about railway history or even choose to take a ride on one of the trains that departs on several excursions throughout the day. Most of the trips are 65-75 minutes long and are a remarkable treat for young and old alike. Perhaps the greatest thing about this museum is that its main objective is to educate the public about the important role that railroads had in the development of this part of the country.
If you’re really interested in sharing your affection for trains with the ones you love, you may consider taking a spin on the Spirit of Washington Dinner Train. This is a great way to not only get the experience of travelling the rails but to take in some of the beautiful Washington scenery and have a gourmet meal in the process. During the months of November through to April up to two children may ride free with a paying adult.
There are certain limitations on the type of seating, but it is a splendid way to enjoy the experience at a vastly reduced price. There are also exclusive events such as Murder Mystery Trains and Magic and Illusion shows in addition to certain holiday events as well. Be sure to check out what is going on while you are visiting Seattle and see if this is something that might interest you and your family.
If you are up for a not so short drive to Pasco (about three and a half hours from Seattle), you might find the Washington State Railroads Historical Society Museum well worth the trip. Be sure to keep in mind that the museum is only open on Saturday and that the hours are limited so this is a trip you need to plan in advance. The greatest thing about this museum to me is the fact that there are lovely little stories, like the blackboard that recorded the first snowfall at the depot each year and others such as this.
It is the short stories that do not necessarily make history that do make lasting impressions and I am happy to see this particular story is being shared. Just remember, when visiting any of these depots, museums, and train excursions that you definitely must bring your inner child with you in order to enjoy them as you should.
Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on a lot of topics, but is presently involved with train sets for kids. If you would like to know more about train sets for kids, please go over to our website for some great offers.
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