Thursday, March 24, 2011

Chugga Chugga

My dad recently introduced us to the Model Railroad Museum at Bandana Square in St. Paul. Another great way to while away the hours before we can play outside, the Model Train Museum is free for kids under 5 and $5 for adults. We were all fascinated by the detailed miniature landscapes and towns, and Max squealed with delight each time a model train chugged around the corner. Louie, for his part, was pretty awestruck.


Miniature Twins Pro Shop and Mickey's Diner


After wandering the main model train room, we visited the children's building, where the kids got to drive Thomas the Train and push buttons to make the displays light up and move. My favorite was the county fair display. The train itself was almost an afterthought, as every ride could be controlled by the push of a button: the ferris wheel, rollercoaster, scrambler, and even a mini-golf course!


When deep in concentration, he can't keep that tongue in


Bandana Square used to be a central hub in the St. Paul area, and entering the beautiful old railroad buildings makes me feel nostalgic for a time I never even experienced! Now the buildings are mostly offices or empty spaces, but I'll hold out hope that eventually the area will be revived. It's a shame that such an historic spot is so rarely visited. We'll definitely make our way back there soon, as long as the Train Museum keeps its doors open!

No comments: