Monday, June 20, 2011

Trains In Seattle And Train Sets

By Owen Jones


Boys and girls of all ages like trains and train sets. They have played a vital part in the history of this country and Seattle, Washington and the Northwest in particular. In fact, the roles of trains in this part of the country have in the past been so critical that there are a couple of museums dedicated to them. Trains were essential supply routes 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 really are a train enthusiast, then it should not be hard to talk you into stopping by Seattle's Train Center before and after touring the museums devoted to trains and their importance 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 excited about them, it is time to take a walk back in time to the Northwest Railway Museum. There you can learn about railway history or even decide to take a ride on one of the trains that leaves on several excursions during the day. Most of the trips are 65-75 minutes long and are a great extravagance for young and old alike. Perhaps the greatest thing about this museum is that its prime objective is to educate the public about the important role that railroads had in the development of this region of the country.

If you're really interested in sharing your love for trains with the ones you love, you may think about taking a trip on the Spirit of Washington Dinner Train. This is a fantastic way to not only get the experience of riding 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 restrictions on the type of seating, but it is a great way to get the event at a vastly reduced price. There are also special 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 (approx. 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 journey you need to plan in advance. The best 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 little tales that do not necessarily make history that do make lasting impressions and I am happy to see this particular story is being shared. Just bear in mind, 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.




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