Monday, October 24, 2011

Trains on the brain

Do your kids love trains? Then you'll want to add these stops to your next St. Paul, MN excursion.

1) Choo Choo Bob's
Our kids love playing with the train tables at the back of this delightful train store. They also host birthday parties, have their own TV show (available on DVD) and they are located right next door to Izzy's ice cream shop and Sweets cupcake bakery.

2) Jackson Street Roundhouse
My friend and co-worker Gary told me about this hidden gem. It's staffed by knowledgable volunteers and the admission fee also gives you a ride on a real train outside. If you're lucky, you'll get to ride up front in the locomotive. Or choose a comfy seat in the quieter caboose. In the museum, there are old trains to wander around and explore and exhibits to see. There's a couple of train tables for the kids to play with and a small gift shop. While we were there, we saw a birthday party taking place in one of the exhibit trains.

3) Twin City Model Railway Museum
This museum actually is split into two buildings. They offer a few train tables for the toddler-aged crowd and many larger models for the older folks. The kids enjoyed running the model trains and playing with the train tables. There weren't very many people there when we went and the parking lot offered ample free parking. Perhaps not as fun, or child-oriented as Choo Choo Bob's or the Jackson Street Roundhouse, the Twin City Model Railway Museum is still a worthwhile visit for train-lovers.

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