Young children are sometimes more fascinated by all the doors they can peek into than by the displays themselves. Behind the roundhouse you can view a collection of props that have been used in some of the more than 200 TV series, commercials and movies filmed at the museum. The highlight of any visit is a chance to ride aboard one of the vintage steam excursion trains that depart the visitor center once an hour during spring and summer weekends. As you stroll along the ancient wooden passenger platform with ticket in hand, you will see the Railtown volunteers put the steamer through its paces as it maneuvers onto a siding and couples up to the front of your train. Docents wearing period costumes and conductor's attire do a fine job of pointing out the sites along your 40-minute journey through the mountains, over bridges and between rocky cliffs.
Questions are highly encouraged.
Back at the station you can enjoy a homemade lunch at the museum's picnic facility or pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop. If your child is sensitive to noise, let him or her get acquainted with one of the idle steamers in the roundhouse or watch the excursion train from a distance before hopping aboard. In town, turn right on Fifth Street and follow the road until you reach the museum parking lot. Signs clearly mark the way. On Father's Day, all dads can ride the regular excursion train for free when accompanied by a child.