You can buy your tickets online (my advice, so you have a reserved seat) or at the ticket window. Make sure to arrive at the depot on time, as seating is first come, first serve. After the train leaves the station, the conductor comes around to punch your ticket. They are all so great, stopping to take pictures and visit with your little ones.
The beginning of the ride is through Grapevine. We found it charming that folks were so friendly. At every crossing everyone in their cars waved at the adorable little hands waving at them.
You have two options on most rides – The open air coaches, one of which includes a snack bar that features popcorn, candy, and bottled drinks. Or you can choose to sit in the air conditioned coach. This one is much cooler, but you loose the sounds and smells of the train ride (maybe you want that?). During the fall, the open air coaches are the best – there is always a cool breeze and you get to experience everything up close.
The hour long ride was perfect for my crew – we enjoyed a quick ride though what looks to be country, as the majority of the ride is through tree-hidden neighborhoods and suburbs. I just assumed we would be looking at roads, stores, and homes the whole ride. Not so. And that added to the charm.
Kids love a ride on the train – this is the mesmerized view you will look at the majority of the ride, no matter what the age. The trip down to the Stockyards and back really makes for a great family outing.
The Grapevine Vintage Railroad offers fun all year round. Each month, fun events are planned from the Halloween Scream Train in October to the North Pole Express around the Holidays to Easter Bunny Fun Run in April. And I even hear that Thomas the Tank Engine visits each April too. During the summer, the weekend runs are filled with a Train Robbery! All of these events are extremely family friendly and very affordable.
Texas Travel Facts for Grapevine Vintage Railroad:
Location: Grapevine Mills, 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, TX 76051
Days: September – November / February-May (Saturday & Sunday only)
June-August – (friday, Saturday & Sunday)
Admission: Round Trip Prices : Adults (13 & up): $28(first class) $20 (touring class)
Children (4-12): $18.00 (first class) $10 (touring class)
Recommended Time: 4.5-6 hours
Good to know: Prices & times above based on all day trip down to the Ft. Worth Stockyards; Expect 1 1/2 hours each way with a 1 1/2 hour layover; Snack bar is available
Website: https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/ThingsToDo/GrapevineVintageRailroad/tabid/267/Default.aspx
My family and I were invited to take a train ride and were provided admission. I was not financially compensated for this post. All opinions of Grapevine Vintage Railroad are strictly my own based on my experience.
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