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 65 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?
The event is located at the North Shore Scenic Railroad located at 506 West Michigan Street, Duluth, MN 55802 .
When is the event?
The event will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, August 2-4 and 9-11.
When do tickets go on sale?
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $18 each for all guests ages two and up.
How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available through Ticketweb by calling 866.468.7630 or online at
TicketWeb!
All guests ages two and up need a ticket to enter the event grounds.
What is included in the ticket price?
A ticket for Day Out With Thomas includes a 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 tickets are purchased at least three weeks in advance of the event, guests will receive their tickets by mail. Guests that purchase tickets closer to the event date can pick up tickets at Will Call the day of the event.
Are there any refunds?
Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged.
Will Thomas the Tank Engine be there?
Yes! 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.
Event Day Information
What times do trains depart?
Trains depart every hour starting at 9:00 am. Thomas leaves the station right on time, so boarding starts 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Boarding doors will close approximately 3 minutes prior to departure to perform safety checks.
Scheduled departure times are: 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, Noon, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
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 are riding the 9:00 train, please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time because gates open at 8:30 am daily.
Is there assigned seating on the train?
Tickets are assigned by departure time and seating is first come, first served. Guests must be together during boarding if they wish to sit together on the train.
How long is the train ride?
The ride lasts approximately 25 minutes.
Are you limited to just one train ride?
Each ticket is good for one train ride at the indicated time.
How do I get there?
The North Shore Scenic Railroad is located at 506 West Michigan Street, Duluth, MN 55802. Directions can be found on our
website!
Limited free parking is available daily, there are also meters and pay lots available!
Is there an additional charge for parking?
Limited free parking is available daily, there are also meters and pay lots available!
What if there is inclement weather?
Day Out with Thomas operates rain or shine.
Are cameras allowed?
Absolutely! Guests are encouraged to capture their Day Out With Thomas memories for their photo album.
Will food be available on site?
Yes, there will be a variety of food options available.
Are strollers permitted?
Day Out with Thomas is a family event that welcomes guests of all ages. There is even a convenient stroller parking area for use during the train ride.
Is the event handicap accessible?
The event grounds and restrooms are accessible. Due to the historic nature of the railroad equipment, there is limited space for wheelchairs and the onboard restrooms are not accessible. Please check in as soon as you arrive so we can ensure easy boarding for your train ride.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed at Day Out with Thomas.
Is there lodging available in the area?
Yes - there are several hotels conveniently located in Duluth, MN including The Edge Waterpark and Hotel.
How do I find out about other Day Out with Thomas events? 
