With a heavy heart I wrote this, because it really is a great idea and there are few things like this these days. You just see the joy on children's faces as they walk up to this location. Sadly, unless you're first upon opening (like our first experience), or randomly pick the correct day when it is functional, you also will see the disappointment on the kids' faces as their parents are turned away.
Of the 5 times we have commuted, we have only been able to ride the train ONCE - the first time we came and accidentally stumbled upon this place. *Note: we just happened to arrive at 9:45 and the train opens at 10*.
We thought it was a fair price at $3/ticket for a 7 minute train ride... and there is also a carousel and little 50 cent machine rides. So, we have tried on FOUR additional occasions to repeat the positive experience...
Unfortunately, we were disappointed ALL four times. If it wasn't for the splash pad at the park, it would have been a huge waste of time. Still massively inconvenient for commuting for a train ride though!
The first time, the train broke. Upon inquiring, we were told it should be up and running by 2. It was noon. We went back at 3:30 to allow ample time - to return back to a closed sign that the train was broken and would be up the next day.
The next times we came back, they closed early every time. We came in March - April '21. The sign posted says the hours during those months are from 10 - 6 PM, however they have closed as early as 4 PM with no provided information.
Today we came for the FIFTH time, to witness the gates closing at 4:25 and another large family leaving, visibly upset. I overheard the parents complaining about how "this is the fourth time we've come and they close it!".
I inquired with the male staff member closing the gate about what happened, and I was told with a poor attitude that they were closing early because "it's hot and we don't get many rides." *(Remember, I just witnessed an upset family leaving, and how do you expect to get rides when you close early?)*
I asked why the posted hours said open until 6 and suggested changing the hours to reflect their true operating hours. (I mean, I can understand wanting to go home early... but do you want to maintain a business or stay at home?) By this time, a woman (who I have seen before on the day the train was broken) had come over and she very happily pointed out the small print at the bottom that says "Days, Hours and Rates subject to change without notice."
I proceeded to state that was pretty inconvenient for multiple families that commute with little toddler children to a place to ride a tot train... perhaps just food for thought... and wished them a great day.
Ultimately, I am really disappointed in how many times this place has let down my child (and other friends that we have invited for play dates). It is honestly becoming embarrassing to invite anyone. It is a real shame because during these times, there is such a limited range of activities, and it is just so heartbreaking to see a place that could be such a light during a time where laughter and fun is needed, especially for the children - and yet it is nothing more than a routine disappointment due to selfish business management.
**UPDATE: I took a chance, because I already had a play date scheduled... from 10 AM - 1:30 PM on a MONDAY they never once opened.
Now it is just a joke.** read more