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 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?

At the Northwest Railway Museum's Snoqualmie Depot, 38625 SE King Street, Snoqualmie, WA in historic downtown Snoqualmie.

When is the event?

July 8 - 10 and 15 - 17, 2011.

When do tickets go on sale?

Northwest Railway Museum member sales begin March 14, 2011. Public sales begin April 25, 2011.

How much are tickets?

$19. Members get a $1 discount per ticket if purchased during the member's sale event.

How do I purchase tickets?

Tickets may be purchased in person at the Snoqualmie Depot or on the web.

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, motor car rides, 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. Pretty much everything you need for a family outing except food and merchandise!

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. Most events at the Northwest Railway Museum sell out well in advance. 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?

Every 45 minutes beginning at 9 AM.

When should we arrive for our train ride with Thomas?

We recommend that guests arrive at the event at least one hour before their scheduled departure.

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?

25 minutes.

Are you limited to just one train ride?

There is one train ride per ticket.

How do I get to there?

Exit 27 from eastbound I-90 or Exit 31 from westbound I-90. Follow the directional signs to parking at the Snoqualmie Middle School, 9200 Railroad Avenue.

Is there parking available on site?

There is little or no parking available on site however there is free parking at the Snoqualmie Middle School ( 9200 Railroad Avenue SE Snoqualmie, WA 98065 ) and a free shuttle to help you get from the parking lot to the event and back again.

Is there an additional cost for parking?

Parking is free.

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. We also have a professional photographer on site should you wish to purchase portraits.

Will there be food available?

Food will be available for purchase on site and includes pizza, hot dogs and ice cream. Sorry, food cost is not included in ticket price.

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?

Yes. There will be a wheel chair lift available at the combine coach.

Are pets allowed?

No pets are allowed at Day Out With Thomas.

Is there available lodging in the area?

Lodging is offered at the Hilton Garden Inn in Issaquah. Special rates are available for DOWT participants. Click here for arrangements for July 8 - 10. Click here for arrangements for July 17 - 19.

How do I find out about other events?

You can find the complete Day Out With Thomas 2011 schedule by clicking on www.thomasandfriends.com/dowt.