PRE-EVENT INFORMATION

What is Day Out With Thomas™?
Day Out With Thomas™ is a family event that offers aspiring engineers and their families the unique opportunity to take a ride with the classic storybook engine, Thomas the Tank Engine™ at regional heritage railroads across the country.

Who is Thomas the Tank Engine?
Since Thomas the Tank Engine left the depot more than 65 years ago, this Really Useful Engine and his Island of Sodor friends have chugged their way into the hearts of preschoolers and grownups worldwide. Based on The Railway Series of classic stories authored by a father who loved trains and wanted a shared experience with his son, Thomas & Friends™ is a rite of passage that inspires the imagination while teaching the life lessons of friendship, exploration and cooperation.

What are the appropriate ages for Day Out With Thomas?
Day Out With Thomas is a family event that welcomes passengers of all ages.

Where is the event?
The event is held at the Florida Railroad Museum in Parish, Florida. The event is located at 12210 83rd Street NE in Parish 34219.

When is the event?

Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11

Saturday, April 17 and Sunday, April 18

When do tickets go on sale?
February 7, 2010...NOW!

How much are tickets?
Tickets are $18 plus sales tax.

How do I purchase tickets?
ITickets can be purchased online by clicking here or by calling Ticketweb at 1.866.468.7630. A limited amount of tickets will be available at the event. However, they will sell out. The only way to guarantee your seat on the train is to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

Who needs tickets?
Tickets are required for guests ages two and up. If you are two, you need a ticket.

What is included in the ticket price?
A ticket for Day Out With Thomas includes the train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, as well as a variety of Thomas & Friends themed entertainment, including Storytelling and Video Viewing, Temporary Tattoos of Island of Sodor friends, and an Imagination Station with Arts & Crafts and more. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet Sir Topham Hatt, the Controller of the Railway on the Island of Sodor.

How will I receive my tickets?
If purchased three weeks or more in advance of the event, guests will receive their tickets in the mail. Guests that purchase tickets closer to the event date can pick up their tickets at Will Call the day of the event.

Are there any refunds?
There will be no refunds or exchanges.

Will Thomas the Tank Engine be there?
Thomas the Tank Engine has traveled all the way from the Island of Sodor and has arrived Right on Time to take a ride with you and your family.

Will Sir Topham Hatt be there?
Yes, Sir Topham Hatt will take time away from his busy schedule as Controller of the Railway on the Island of Sodor to meet and take pictures with guests.

Do you recommend purchasing tickets in advance?
Due to the popularity of Day Out With Thomas, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended. It is not uncommon for events to sell out. When purchasing tickets you will be asked to select a specific date and time for your ride with Thomas. Your ticket is valid only for that date and time.

DAY OF EVENT INFORMATION

What times do trains depart?
Trains depart daily at 9:00, 9:45, 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 12:45, 1:30, 2:15, 3:00, 3:45, 4:30

When should we arrive for our train ride with Thomas?
It is recommended that guests arrive at the event one hour before their scheduled departure. This allows for time to park, explore the event and board the train. Thomas departs right on time and is unable to wait if anyone is late.

Is there assigned seating on the train?
Tickets are assigned by time. Guests must be together during boarding if they wish to sit together on the train. If you have a group of eight or larger, please call 612.331.5600 and let us know about your group so we can arrange seating ahead of time.

How long is the train ride?
The train ride is approximately 25 minutes long.

Are you limited to just one train ride?
There is one train ride per ticket.

How do I get to there?
Please click this link for personalized directions.

Is there parking available on site?
Parking is available for free within approximately 1.5 blocks of the event.

Is there an additional cost for parking?
FREE, FREE, FREE! Please respect our parking people, they are just trying to make everyone's day just a little better.

What if there is inclement weather?
Day Out With Thomas events take place rain or shine.

Are cameras allowed?
Absolutely! Guests are encouraged to capture their Day Out With Thomas memories for their photo album.

Will there be food available?
YES! There will be several options of healthy and carnival like food available for purchase..

Are strollers permitted?
Day Out With Thomas is a family event that welcomes guests of all ages. There is even a designated area for "stroller parking" during the train ride.

Is the event handicap accessible?
Yes! Please call 612.331.5600 to let us know when you will be riding and any details we may need to know about to make your boarding as easy as possible.

Are pets allowed?
No pets are allowed at Day Out With Thomas.


How do I find out about other events?
You can find the complete Day Out With Thomas 2010 schedule by clicking on  www.thomasandfriends.com/dowt.