forest park miniature railroad

One of my boys favorite activities is riding the miniature railroad that starts in Forest Park and winds through Trinity Park to the duck pond and then back. The train route crosses several large bridges and circles through both large parks.

Forest Park Miniature Railroad – Forest Park Depot off Colonial Parkway (on the left a few blocks before the Ft Worth Zoo entrance); 817-336-3328

The Forest Park Miniature Railroad starts at the Forest Park Train Depot   on Colonial Parkway just before the entrance to the zoo. Initially we were a bit confused because the Ft Worth Zoo has a train as well, but that is completely separate.   The zoo train is inside the zoo and travels between two zoo stations, whereas this train is completely outside the zoo and happens to start near the zoo entrance. The Forest Park train is a 45 minute trip which includes the stop at The Trinity Park Depot.   It is approximately a 5 mile ride.

There are snacks available at The Trinity Park Depot “ we always pick up the $1 popcorn to enjoy on the rest of the ride.   You can also board the train on a non-crowded day from this depot.   It is a bit of a gamble to start at this location because you will only be able to board if there is room.

The Forest Park Miniature Railroad is the perfect length for wiggly toddlers.   Even though the sides of the train are open, I felt safe taking small kids because they seemed to be mesmerized by the experience. The ticket price is $3 for adults and $2.50 for kids. Please be aware that you will need cash “ they do not accept credit cards. I hosted Reid’s 4 year old birthday party at the Forest Park Train. Everyone was invited to meet us for the first train of the day. Each child was handed a paper bag with pb&j sandwiches and juice boxes to eat while riding. We stopped at The Trinity Park Depot for popcorn and then enjoyed cupcakes back at The Forest Park Depot when we returned. It was literally the EASIEST, most inexpensive birthday party that I have ever thrown.   The bonus was that it was over in 1 1/4 hours and those who were interested met us at the play area in Trinity Park after the party for a little more fun. If you have kids under 10, then this is something you have to do next time you are in Ft Worth.