The Halloween Eerie Express at Tennessee Valley Railroad stops at a new family-friendly Fun House over the next three weekends.
IF YOU GO* What: Halloween Eerie Express and Fun House.* When: 5:30 and 7:45 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in October.* Where: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s Grand Junction Station, 4119 Cromwell Road.* Admission: $24.* Phone: 894-8028.* Website: www.tvrail.com.
The fun actually starts before boarding. Grand Junction Station has the atmosphere of a fall festival, with a pumpkin patch, petting zoo and games. Children ages 3-12 can pick out a pumpkin (with a train ticket, while supplies last). Pony rides will be available for a small additional charge.
The train ride will feature storytelling and games before arrival at the 2,000-square-foot, 20-room Fun House, which organizers stress is not a haunted house. Instead, kids will find such activities as storytelling, blacklight mini golf and temporary tattoos. Each room has a different theme, set off by special lighting, interesting decorations and many surprises, according to the TVRM website.
“We wanted to offer a seasonal family experience that is wonderful for folks with small children,” said TVRM spokesman Steve Freer in a news release. “We have really taken the time to produce a friendly and entertaining atmosphere that is free of scary themes. The Fun House truly is what is in the name, fun for all ages.”