PRE-EVENT INFORMATION
What is Day Out With Thomas™?
Day Out With Thomas™ is a family event that offers aspiring engineers and their families the unique opportunity to take a ride with the classic storybook engine, Thomas the Tank Engine™ at regional heritage railroads across the country.
Who is Thomas the Tank Engine?
Since Thomas the Tank Engine left the depot more than 60 years ago, this Really Useful Engine and his Island of Sodor friends have chugged their way into the hearts of preschoolers and grownups worldwide. Based on The Railway Series of classic stories authored by a father who loved trains and wanted a shared experience with his son, Thomas & Friends™ is a rite of passage that inspires the imagination while teaching the life lessons of friendship, exploration and cooperation.
What are the appropriate ages for Day Out With Thomas?
Day Out With Thomas is a family event that welcomes passengers of all ages.
Where is the event?
Texas State Railroad Rusk Depot. Just remember that the Texas State Railroad has two depots. Day Out With Thomas is held at our Rusk Depot!
Visit our website for a downloadable map.
When is the event?
October 16th, 17th, 18th and 23rd, 24th, 25th, 2009.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets are on sale now!
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $18 (plus tax and service fees) for ages two and up. Special discounts are offered for groups of 20 or more.
How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets are sold through TicketWeb. Click here to book your tickets online or call Ticketweb directly at 1.866.468.7630.
Who needs tickets?
Tickets are required for guests ages two and up.
What is included in the ticket price?
A ticket for Day Out With Thomas includes the train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, as well as a variety of Thomas & Friends themed entertainment, including Storytelling and Video Viewing, Temporary Tattoos of Island of Sodor friends, and an Imagination Station with Arts & Crafts and more. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet Sir Topham Hatt, the Controller of the Railway on the Island of Sodor.
How will I receive my tickets?
If purchased three weeks or more in advance of the event, guests will receive their tickets in the mail. Guests that purchase tickets closer to the event date can pick up their tickets at Will Call the day of the event.
Are there any refunds?
There will be no refunds or exchanges.
Will Thomas the Tank Engine be there?
Thomas the Tank Engine has traveled all the way from the Island of Sodor and has arrived Right on Time to take a ride with you and your family.
Will Sir Topham Hatt be there?
Yes, Sir Topham Hatt will take time away from his busy schedule as Controller of the Railway on the Island of Sodor to meet and take pictures with guests.
Do you recommend purchasing tickets in advance?
Due to the popularity of Day Out With Thomas, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended. It is not uncommon for events to sell out. When purchasing tickets you will be asked to select a specific date and time for your ride with Thomas. Your ticket is valid only for that date and time.
DAY OF EVENT INFORMATION
What times do trains depart?
10:00am, 10:45am, 11:30am, 12:15pm, 1:00pm, 1:45pm, 2:30pm & 3:15pm.
When should we arrive for our train ride with Thomas?
It is recommended that guests arrive at the event at least one hour before their scheduled departure. If you book tickets for the last ride of the day be sure and arrive even earlier to enjoy all of the different activities.
Is there assigned seating on the train?
Tickets are assigned by time. Guests must be together during boarding if they wish to sit together on the train.
How long is the train ride?
Thirty minutes.
Are you limited to just one train ride?
There is one train ride per ticket.
How do I get to there?
The event is located at the Rusk Depot of the Texas State Railroad. The physical address is Park Road 76, US Hwy 84 West, Rusk, Texas 75785. Visit our website for a downloadable map.
Is there parking available on site?
Yes
Is there an additional cost for parking?
No
What if there is inclement weather?
Day Out With Thomas events take place rain or shine.
Are cameras allowed?
Absolutely! Guests are encouraged to capture their Day Out With Thomas memories for their photo album.
Will there be food available?
Yes. There will be several food vendors onsite during the event.
Are strollers permitted?
Day Out With Thomas is a family event that welcomes guests of all ages. There is even a designated area for “stroller parking” during the train ride.
Is the event handicap accessible?
An ADA accessible car is available for the 30-minute train ride with Thomas. This particular car must be booked when you reserve your tickets. Ramps are also available.
Are pets allowed?
No pets are allowed at Day Out With Thomas.
Is there available lodging in the area?
Visit the following website for a full list of area lodging:
Rusk - www.rusktexascoc.org
Palestine - www.VisitPalestine.com
Jacksonville - www.jacksonvilletexas.com
Tyler - www.visittyler.com
How do I find out about other events?
You can find the complete Day Out With Thomas 2009 schedule by
clicking on www.thomasandfriends.com/dowt.
