Before boarding, kids can spend time in Imagination Station, where they'll find arts and crafts, temporary tattoos, storytelling and video viewing, among other activities.He's coming all the way from the Island of Sodor, but look for Thomas the Tank Engine to arrive right on time for three weekends of rides at Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
Day Out With Thomas: The Ready, Set, Go Tour will be offered three Saturdays (April 23, April 30 and May 7) and two Sundays (April 24 and May 1). In all, there are 46 chances to ride on the famed storybook engine, but some departure times for this favorite family adventure already have sold out.
The 25-minute train ride is just part of the fun, so families are encouraged to arrive at least an hour before their scheduled boarding time. Little engineers can meet and pose for photos with the controller of the railway, Sir Topham Hatt, and play in the Imagination Station, where they'll find arts and crafts, temporary tattoos, storytelling and video viewing. Several activities this year will feature Thomas' best friend, Percy.
This is the 21st year for Day Out With Thomas. This year's tour is expected to welcome nearly 1 million passengers in 43 stops across the U.S. and Canada.
If you go
› What: Day Out With Thomas: The Ready, Set, Go Tour.› When: Saturdays and Sundays, April 23-24, April 3-May 1 and May 7. Departures at 9, 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Saturdays; 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Sundays.› Where: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, 4119 Cromwell Road.› Admission: Starting at $21 ages 2 and older, $4 discounts for groups of 20 or more when ordered together in advance.› Phone: 1-866-468-7630.› Website: tvrail.com.