Day Trips – Page 3 – Rockland NY Mom

WPPAC Presents Tarzan- REVIEW!

Posted on December 22, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2015, Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, RNYM's Picks .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we were invited to a performance. All opinions expressed are my own.

I LOVE THE THEATER. I want my children to love it too. But its nearly impossible to just pick the correct age to begin bringing them. Then, you have to choose a good venue, not too large so that they can actually see and experience, not get bored because its too small and they are too removed. And then, you have to choose a show that is familiar enough to capture them, and keep their attention. Especially because of the COSTS associated with attending live theater. At WPPAC the family four pack (which is still available at this time) is only $135 which is amazing.

Well theater lovers, look no further. We attended the WPPAC show Tarzan this past weekend and it was everything I have been searching for.

Amenities:

It is a smaller theater, not a bad seat in the house. The seats are super comfortable with modern capabilities. There is lots of leg room and no matter where you are, you can really see and experience the show.

The view of the stage from our seat (excuse terrible cell phone picture).

Getting there is a quick 30-40 minute drive, and parking in the local lot a breeze. If you park on the 5th floor you can walk right into the theater in a well lit garage. Oh and parking is only $1 per hour.

There is a great little snack bar that you can take advantage of where they also have little souvenirs of the show for purchase. Right behind the snack bar is the restrooms, which were comfortable and SUPER CLEAN.

(A) and his cousin (F) at the concession stand.

REVIEW:

The actors at WPPAC are all professionals. The singing and acting was EXCELLENT. Tarzan’s mother had a voice that touched my soul. The child actors were also a great pleasure to see. (A) was very excited to see boys like himself performing on stage.

(A) has seen the cartoon many times before and was immediately into the show. He sat quietly through the first act (which is quite the feat if you know anything about 5 year old boys). At intermission when the audience stepped out to use the restrooms and get refreshments, he spent time running through our aisles pretending to be a gorilla.

He was ready and excited for the second act but wanted to sit in Nana’s lap. This was no problem because of the modern comfortable seats in the theater. When we could tell he had gotten a little tired she told him that he could put his head back and he said “No Nana, I want to see the show”.

It was also great to see him learning musical cues and wanting to show his appreciation. At one point when the cast had almost finished a number he was unsure if it was time to clap and so he leaned over and asked, “do we clap now?”

He made it through and at the end he wanted to know where the music came from, so we walked down to the stage and I showed him where the grates were that led to the pit. This amazed him. When he turned around and saw the monitors he also asked what those were for. We had a little musical theater lesson.

(A) and his cousin (F) down by the stage.

When we exited the theater we heard that the two young boys who had played leads were going to be in the lobby speaking to people. I have NEVER seen (A) get nervous or quiet, but with these boys he was. He was totally in awe. I was finally able to get him to ask if they would sign his playbill, and they happily agreed.

In the car I asked (A) if he wanted me to hold his playbill and he said “No mom, I’ve got it”. He is treasuring it. He already has it up on his high shelf where (E) can’t get at it.

BUY TICKETS:

Group packages, and Gift Certificates also available. Performances run December 26, 28, 29 January 2, 8, 9 at 7 pm and December 19, 20, 26, 27, 30, January 2, 3, 9, 10 at 2 pm.

Take advantage of our family four pack on Dec 18, 19, 26, 28 & 29 at 7pm. Get 2 adults and 2 child tickets for $135 dollars. That’s a 15% savings. Tickets range from $25-$47. For tickets and more information visit www.wppac.com or call (914) 328-1600.

White Plains Performing Arts Center is located at 11 City Place on the 3rd floor of City Center in White Plains, NY.

Santa Trolley- Review

Posted on December 18, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Christmas 2014, Christmas 2015, Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Travel .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we were invited for a ride. All opinions expressed are my own.

I OWE this review. Two years ago we went here and although it was cool I personally wasn’t blown away by the Santa they had used. I wasn’t sure how to approach it and so I didn’t post. I was so stuck on that one little detail (I thought it was a big deal) that I lost focus on who and what mattered most.

We researched and went because its close to my best friend (Aunt Shelby’s) house. It was a combined visit with her and Christmas activity to do with the kids. Its not super far away, but as many know the drive through CT can be a bear if you don’t know when to make the trip.

Meet Aunt Shelby

So here is our experience at the Shoreline Trolley Museum.

(E) was so young she has no recollection of the visit, but (A) is another story entirely. He remembers every moment. If my posting this is any indication, I have to tell you, he asks when we are going again all the time.

He remembers getting to ride on a cool Trolley (it was very cool) like Daniel Tiger. He remembers being able to drive (a little). He loved looking out the windows at the lights along the way.

Once there, he loved the train car and the other decorated Trolley cars around the yard. He still talks about the Hot Chocolate and the cookies that were out for us. He loved that the wait for Santa was short, and that Santa really spoke to him (he didn’t have 10,000 other boys and girls waiting for their turn so he was able to actually spend some time with him).

At the main building there is also an adorable little Trolley museum with some interactive displays as well.

He talks about it all the time. He was 3, he is now 5. We have gone on some pretty cool trips, been on the Polar Express (which he loved), and so many other attractions, and he still talks about this one.

For more information about the Shore Line Trolley Museum check out their website: http://shorelinetrolley.org/about/.

Mornings On the Farm

Posted on November 16, 2015 by Ashley Carmichael Posted in Classes, Classes for Kids, Crafts, Crafts and More Crafts, Day Trips, Day Trips, Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are those of Ashley our writer.

Circle on the farm is located right off 303 on Greenbush road (behind the old U-Delco) on the property of Bell-Ans Farm.

I was graciously invited by Rachael to join her for ‘Mornings on the Farm.’ A 2 ½ hour ‘class’ (I hesitate to call it a class) of creativity and exploration for kids and their parents/caregiver. Of course, my first thought its 2 ½ hours?! How will the boys be focused for that long?

Rachael works and volunteers in Recreational and Creative Arts Therapy. She studied Fine Art and is working towards her Masters in Creative Arts Therapy. She believes that busy hands lead to an open heart and and open mind. She is UNBELIEVABLE. Her patience, and warmth is something special. She welcomes you into the studio with such warmth and true joy to have you there for the morning.

We arrived on time to a welcoming smile from Rachael. The studio is full of wonderfully mismatched chairs and colors, that all seems to match. She instantly encouraged (W) and (S) to explore to their liking and offered me coffee, tea and water to enjoy while I sat on the couch waiting for others to arrive. There is an adorable play nook set up under the staircase with basic blocks, toy kitchen and a few trucks that instantly drew the boys in.

As the other families trickled in conversation was easily made and everyone was so happy to meet each other. It was a first class for many, so it was nice to experience the class amongst other first timers.

Racheal began to set up the art project. Our project for the day was making a Stand Glass Window frame to hang. She explained several different ideas how to complete the project, but ultimately it was a free for all. She encouraged the kids to participate, but did not force. If the children were un-inspired with the project, they were free to play and roam about the studio while the parents created.

She came over to the boys and poured glue all over a glass 8×11 frame. She then let the boys choose colors and dropped dots of food coloring in the glue, gave the boys popsicle sticks and let them create as they pleased. The boys had a blast swirling the colors, and making a wonderful mess. She also had plates of beads to add to the glue if they wanted. The boys finished and moved back to the play nook again.

The kids would again start to wander back to the table interested in what the adults and other kids were up to. She could see the interest peaking in those little minds, and offered another project of painting – paper, mason jars, tiles. She was full of fun ideas! There was never a moment of “let’s stop and clean up” or “Don’t do it that way”, Rachael watched the project flow letting the children and adults create as they felt inspired.

(S) working hard on his stained glass. Choosing the perfect stones to add.

As everyone finished their glass, and paintings she offered to make snack! Fresh popped popcorn and delicious berry smoothies. Two of the boys favorites!

(W) enjoying his smoothie!

Rachael saw those little legs getting antsy so she grabbed a bucket of birdseed, a head of lettuce and we headed out for a walk around the farm. The kids got to feed the chickens, peacocks, guinea foul, pigs and goats! The morning wrapped with a fun game of ring around the rosy on the large lawn of the farm. I couldn’t believe it was already time to go!

(W) Feeding the goats.

The boys insisted on hanging their beautiful projects in their playroom so everyone who comes over to play can see them!

Mornings on the Farm is unlike any other “mommy and me class” I have experienced. The mood is calm, and free flowing. The ‘class’ was relaxing, as if I were at a playdate at a friends house.
The boys and I are BEYOND excited to visit another morning.

Rachael along with her partners Jayme and Lauren created this amazing space for creativity and growth at Circle on the Farm with offerings not only for children, but for adults as well, yeah we will go check that out too ;o). Please check out CirlceontheFarm.com or their Facebook page for upcoming events.

https://www.facebook.com/circleonthefarm/?fref=ts

Check here for the schedule of their offerings.
http://www.circleonthefarm.com/#!calendar/c22g5

Use the Force- This Weekend- LEGOLAND Westchester Discovery Center!!!

Posted on November 13, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Opportunities, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we have been invited to the event. All opinions expressed are my own.

May the Force Be With You at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester for

LEGO® Star Wars™ Days on November 14-15, 2015

[Yonkers, NY – November 9, 2015] – Experience LEGO® Star Wars™ Days at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester on November 14-15, 2015.

“LEGO® Star Wars™ Days will feature exciting LEGO® activities guaranteed to bring the spirit of one of the most beloved film series of all time to our very own LEGOLAND® Discovery Center,” said Chris Mines, General Manager of LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester.

The weekend will feature fun-filled LEGO Star Wars™ build activities for all ages including LEGO® Star Wars™ build competitions, a LEGO® Star Wars™ themed Master Builder Academy and a large scale LEGO® Darth Vader™ group build.

All activities taking place during LEGO® Star Wars™ Days are included in the price of admission to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester. Annual pass holders will be invited to attend an exclusive preview event prior to the general public on Friday, November 13, 2015 from 4pm to 9pm (last admission at 7pm).

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is the ultimate indoor LEGO playground featuring more than 3 million LEGO® bricks, geared towards families with children aged 3-10. Its range of educational and interactive attractions include hands-on play areas, a 4D cinema, the Master Builder Academy, two LEGO® amusement rides, special party rooms and MINILAND — the venue’s signature re-creation of landmark locations and buildings throughout New York City, made entirely out of more than 1 million LEGO® bricks. Advance tickets and annual passes to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center are available online. Additionally, visitors dressed as their favorite Star Wars™ characters will receive a $3 discount on walk-up admission all weekend.

Check in on our social media tonight to see our experience!!!!

The Great Jack O’Lantern BLAZE

Posted on September 21, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we were invited to come see the BLAZE. All opinions expressed are my own.

Two years ago (October 2013) I took the kiddies to the Great Jack O’Lantern BLAZE (see review). Little (E) was months old and in a stroller. (A) was 3 at the time and had a blast. I have always had it in the back of my mind to return when the kids were a bit older and this year we were given the opportunity. I AM PSYCHED!!!

If you are interested in attending you can check out their official website to read more about it or purchase tickets. It sells out fast, so purchase as soon as you decide to go. Questions? Our previous review has some helpful hints for you. READ about it here!

I have already started reading them the great little book that we purchased two years ago when we visited. I love adding a little literacy to an event or attraction. Then when we get back I plan to use this as an opportunity to lead into our PUMPKIN CARVING!!! Last time we went, we had to carve 3 pumpkins (A) was so excited about the BLAZE.

Would you like to visit the BLAZE?? We have a set of 4 tickets to giveaway!!!! Like, comment and share on Facebook to enter, or just comment here. Drawing will be held on 9/26/15.

Magical Escape Part 2- Review

Posted on July 30, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Money Momma, Reviews, Travel .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as our Money Momma, Jamie was invited for a visit with her family. All opinions expressed are her own.

Mountain Creek Trip PART 2 – CRYSTAL SPRINGS RESORT

Out of the action and into the relaxation! Just a short mile or so trip down the road the 4 of us left our day of fun and Action Park Waterpark and went to check into our room at Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort. The room we stayed in while skiing (insert link) was perfect and plenty big enough but just to see some more of the features of this beautiful property we chose to stay in a family suite this time. The room was gorgeous with a fully functional kitchen and washer/dryer (lifesaver). The kids had a blast pretending that we moved into a new house and running onto the child safe balcony to see the view of all the pools and the top of the mountains. This is when we turned our attention from adventure to relaxation. The suite allowed (T) and me our own room while the kids had a pullout bed in the living room. There was still plenty of room in the living room to set up a portable bed for (S) who insists he cannot possibly share a bed with his sister.

Since we had our own little kitchen we decided to order in some Italian food and unwind from the day. There are plenty of food options on resort property that we knew we would take advantage of the following day. When we were finished we put the kids back into their bathing suits and headed down to the biosphere (insert link) for a night swim. It seriously feels like it transports you to a tropical island. FYI the biosphere has a retractable roof so even when it’s raining, vacation is still a go!

Thanks to a fun-packed day, staying up late, and a very comfortable hotel room, both kids crashed and slept well through the night.

Being at Mountain Creek and Crystal Springs Resort means there is always something going on for the kids to do. Options include (but are not limited to): swimming in one of the four different pools at the hotel, playing miniature golf, taking a ride on the mountain gondola, or riding a zip-line. We were also excited to see that they have now opened their Mountaintop Adventure center which has a whole other array of activities including; lake swimming, kayaking, horseback riding, and archery.

To make reservations and see for yourself click the ADVENTURE CENTER LINK

After discussing it with the kids we decided that we wanted a day to relax and chose to stay and play at the hotel. It’s like being at a fancy family camp because all day long there are different activities on premise to participate in. Guests are given a schedule and a map upon check-in and the rest is at their leisure. This is really a great tool with a family because not everyone will always want to do the same things or maybe they aren’t old enough to do everything listed. There was something for all age groups. (R) and (S) loved swimming in and out of the pools (yes all four) and playing with the human size chess game. (T) and I took a walk around the beautiful chef’s garden which features outdoor dining with dishes prepared from the food grown RIGHT THERE. It was really cool to see farm to table where one might not expect it and we both agreed that a trip to Mountain Creek without the kids is definitely in order (without a doubt).

Once the kids were done swimming and we enjoyed a lunch that was served poolside on our lounge chairs. The food was reasonably priced and was really delicious. They also have adult beverages available as well as full towel service so there was no need for me to be carrying the bag of towels I had brought (that’s right, less packing mommies!).

With the car loaded up and 2 kids asleep in their car seats we were again grateful for the very short drive home. This whole trip reminded us why Mountain Creek and Crystal Springs Resort remains one of our top choices for a family day trip or getaway!

A reminder that you have until tonight (7/30/15) to enter our Action Park Giveaway for 4 free tickets to Action Park!!! For our Review Click Here!

Action Park – A Magical Escape- Review!!

Posted on July 27, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Money Momma, Out and about..., Reviews, Travel .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as our Money Momma, Jamie was invited for a visit with her family. All opinions expressed are her own.

From Day Trip to Magical Escape

Action Park at Mountain Creek and Crystal Springs Resort

I’m not exactly sure how and when it happened, but (T) and I woke up recently and realized we no longer have babies; we have 2 KIDS! Somehow with a 4 year old and a 3 year old we have hit a parenting sweet spot where diapers are no longer needed, naps can be skipped if we are having fun, and the kids are ready to try new adventures. This led us to wonder if taking them on a weekend getaway would be easier or if we should just think about day trips. Instead of agonizing over what to do we decided to pick the best of both worlds. We made a summer trip over to Mountain Creek, a place only 55 minutes from our home but one that feels like an island escape.

We started our visit off with a trip to Action Park, the legendary waterpark that is part of the Mountain Creek and Crystal Springs resort property. We had been told that the park was hilly but we were willing to give it a try because the kids had such a great time on our last trip to Mountain Creek during the winter (click here). We had NO ISSUE with any of the hills, and I don’t just mean me. My 3 year old (S) wasn’t struggling, wasn’t complaining, and didn’t get tired. Unless your desire is to ride the absolute tallest of the waterslides, we did not find the park to be any more or less hilly than any other waterpark.

The large area for the children ages 0 to 7ish is actually completely flat with plenty of lounge chairs for the parents. We were able to park our stuff on a chair and let the kids enjoy a combination of waterslides, splash parks, junior lazy rivers, and tube rides all right in the kid’s area.

Both the food and the bathrooms are conveniently located right next to the kids section!!! It’s the little things that make me smile. At one point (R) went down a slide screaming “this is the most fun ever!” and went running back for another turn.

While (T) played with the kids in their special section, I took some time to take a walk around the rest of the park and watched fellow guests enjoying a variety of rides.

There is of course the standard wave pool (which we found very safe considering they require life jackets for under 48 inches and hand them out for free) but there are also some really cool attractions that just cannot be seen anywhere else.

Cliff jump anyone? Self-controlled roller coaster? How about an oversized CONE that sends riders up and down in an inner tube?? Action park had it all (perfect for pre-teens and teens) and even animal shows to boot! (S) couldn’t wait to get to the animal show so (T) took him while I used that time to ride some of the bigger rides with (R) who met the height requirements.

I have to give this park credit on their crowd control. We were there on a Saturday, it was hot and sunny. I could see all the people, and knew it was crowded, but we never waited more than 10 minutes for any ride or had any problems finding a chair. Even the most popular attractions had their lines moving quickly and with tubes immediately available for the next rider. If we wanted, we also could have rented a cabana for the day that was covered in shade either up above or on a small beach. If we had an infant or had traveled with another family that probably would have been the option we went with.

We were able to spend the entire day with plenty to do for the whole family. As we were leaving and discussing a trip back at the end of the summer we saw a sign that said we could apply the price of a day’s ticket to the cost of a season’s pass. The season pass more than pays for itself after 2 visits! Being only a 55 minute drive we will definitely be back, this becomes a great option for a family like ours. However this time we decided we weren’t leaving. We were headed to check into Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort for our overnight and second day of our Mountain Creek getaway!!

Stay tuned to read the next installment of Jamie’s Mountain Creek review. In the meantime Rocklandnymom.com is giving away a family 4 pack to Action Park! To enter comment below and share this post on your Facebook page! Winner will be chosen Thursday evening (7/30/15)!

The WHOLE Experience at Halfway Acres Farm!

Posted on July 18, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as Halfway Acres is a directory member. All opinions expressed are my own.

EVERY year I say I am going to go berry picking, and every year I fail. Which farm to choose? Which weekend to go? Is my child old enough? How is the weather? So many variables that I always end up dropping the ball and not getting it done. I love the idea of fresh berries right off of the plant (I love that idea for all of my food), so every year I say “I am going berry picking”.

Well, when Halfway Acres joined our Day Trips page we threw caution to the wind and went right up there (literally the next day). I am so glad that we did. It’s a fantastic way to spend a morning or afternoon.

We arrived in Campbell Hall, NY (right near Goshen) around 1 pm. When we arrived we were greeted by Michael and Christine (the owners of the farm). Not only do they supply you with different colored buckets to carry your haul in, but they also offered us locally made tick spray (a must). Christine took a moment to explain to our group which berries to pick, based on color. Then we were off to the picking.

The kids ran around from bush to bush. It was difficult to explain to them that we were picking them and putting them into the bucket, not eating as many blueberries as we could find. One thing I was NOT worried about was my kids ingesting all sorts of pesticides and unnatural things. Halfway Acres does NOT spray or use fertilizers of ANY kind. These berries are as God made them and that’s what I want my kids eating.

Speaking of eating, if you have never had a REAL fresh blueberry, you have no idea what you have been missing. The ones you buy from the supermarket are good (or so you thought), but once you have had one of these your experience will never be the same. These berries truly are nature’s candy. They are plump and firm and sweet and so, so good.

We picked for 2 ½ hours before we finally filled our buckets. This would have been a great time for us to have a snack or a lunch if we had brought it with us. Michael and Christine have some lovely patio tables set up for just this purpose.

Once finished with our picking we headed over to have our berries weighed and purchase our harvest. As a group WE PICKED 9 lbs of BERRIES! It sounds like too much, but it so wasn’t. While we were weighing and paying Christine gave the kiddies ice pops (they were so excited, and she made them ask permission first). I asked how much I owed them for the ice pops, and she replied that they were free, FREE! How lovely.

The kids and I used the on-site porta-potty before heading back home and YES it is super clean!! I would actually have to report that it was my best porta-potty experience to date.

This experience doesn’t really end at the farm. I had all of these yummy berries to play with and was almost a little worried that I could never use them all and some might go to waste (BTW all unfounded worries they were gone two days later). We made French toast with berries on top, ate them as snacks, had blueberry pancakes, and I made whole-wheat blueberry muffins (Click Here) that were so good (E) was stealing them off the counter, and RNYD had one and said “Now that’s a blueberry muffin.”

I love what Christine and Michael are doing, and so do they. As they gain popularity they have plans to create a little shop and place for visitors to perhaps eat some blueberry delicacies. I for one cannot wait. We will absolutely be back. This was an afternoon of good wholesome fun, in the sun. It’s a lesson in healthy snacking, and it was a chance to meet and get to know some truly lovely people.

For more information about Halfway Acres Farm you can visit their website at http://halfwayacres.com/ and follow them on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/halfwayacres. The blueberry picking season at Halfway Acres is only 6-7 weeks long and runs from late June, through July and sometimes into the first week of August. But it’s better to arrive at the farm in early to mid-July (that’s now) when it’s prime season before the supply begins to dwindle. Being that the berries are left in their natural state, one never knows how long the berries will last and if you wait too long then they just might be gone before you get there!

“Traintastic” Chuggington Review!

Posted on June 25, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews, Uncategorized .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as Ashley and her family were invited for a ride. All opinions expressed are her own.

This past weekend we were lucky enough to attend the “traintastic” Chuggington event at the Catskill Mountain Railroad. My boys LOVE Chuggington, so I knew we would have a blast… and perfect timing as a birthday celebration for my oldest!!

We started our day with a quick hour and twenty minute ride straight up the thruway to Kingston, praying for sunshine the entire trip. When we arrived parking was ample, and quickly noticed there were porta-potties easily accessible (there is also a grocery store in the same parking lot with clean bathrooms and a changing table). The parking lot is also connected to the lot of a strip mall with a Blimpies, Bagel shop, and a pizza restaurant.

As we picked up our tickets, we were also handed Catskill Mountain Railroad dollars to be used at specific local restaurants, as well as our trainee name tags. Right behind the ticket tent was a shop to buy Chuggington merchandise, and the photo booth to purchase any of the professional photos taken throughout your visit.

There was lots of food available – hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hotdogs, french fries, chips, and even a local pizza shop set up ovens and had fresh pizza cooking! Of course, don’t forget ice cream, which we couldn’t resist!

Since we had some time before our train departed, we decided to take a stroll through the tents they had set up. WOW! There were 3 main tents – one for each of the main characters in the show. Within in each tent the kids were challenged to complete a challenge to earn a “badge” (a bracelet ) and a sticker. Just like badge quest on the show!

In Wilson’s tent, there were train tables, and a big mat for the kids to build their own train tracks. The challenge was to knock down the flames with bean bags. Since this was our first activity, my boys were intimidated so I took the lead to earn our bracelets.

In Koko’s tent, it was a race! The boys quickly filled buckets with ‘coal’ and ran to dump the buckets and fill up the train carts earning a green bracelet and KoKo sticker.

In Brewster’s tent there was a big sandbox filled with trucks, trains, buckets and shovels. The challenge was to build a tower putting blocks in number order. This earned each kid a a blue bracelet and Brewster sticker.

In addition to the main character tents, there was also a tent with free face painting, temporary tattoos, coloring, and small band playing kids music.

We heard the whistle of the train rolling in, so we headed over to get in line. We were slightly disappointed when the train got closer and we didn’t see Hanzo, as advertised. But the disappointment switched quickly to excitement when the boys saw it was a steam train just like Old Puffer Pete! Phew.

We were able to get great seats on the train, on one of the open flats so the boys could see everything going by. The ride was a serene 30 minutes, through the town and along a wooded area.

The train cars were decorated with blue and white streamers and flags, to symbolize Hanzo. Over the loud speaker they played songs from the show, and the voice of Hanzo was sharing all of the information about Chuggington and events that were coming up next. They had ‘train workers’ (dressed like the characters on Chuggington) coming around interacting with the kids and singing along with the songs. Towards the end of the ride, each child was given a party hat and party blower to use at the next event – a surprise party for KoKo!

As we exited the train we were guided to tent for a show. There, we found Eddie with Brewster and Wilson gearing up for KoKo’s surprise party. The show encouraged the kids to dance, and sing along. After the show, all were welcome to come up to take pictures with the trains. As we left the show the boys were each given a certificate to color showing that they are Official Chuggington Trainees!

After the show, the boys couldn’t wait to get back into the 3 activity tents and do the challenges all over again! Also, we couldn’t miss our turn in the bounce house!

We spent a good 4 hours exploring and having a traintastic time! There are still tickets available for this Saturday and Sunday! They have trains running on the hour from 10am until 4pm. Check out catskillmtrailroad.com for tickets.

Dino Days Train Ride Review!

Posted on June 17, 2015 by RocklandNYMom Posted in Day Trips, Day Trips, Events, Out and about..., Reviews .

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post as we were invited on the Dino Days Train Ride. All opinions expressed are my own!

This past weekend we were lucky enough to attend the Dino Days Train Ride at the Delaware River Railroad excursions. When we first heard about it we knew that it would be a perfect fit for our family. (A) has really taken an interest in rocks and digging, and (E) is always happily right behind. She adores dinosaur train so this would be an opportunity to enjoy an activity that they would both love.

The trip was a quick hour and a half down the Garden State. When we got there we were handed a map that showed where to easily park (for free) along with a list of local restaurants that we could eat at. When we walked down the hill we saw all of the wonderful activities that we could participate in. We decided to hit those after the train ride as they were loading up and moving out within the next ten minutes.

The train was lovely. Clean and old fashioned. (A) was very proud to be able to recognize that it was a diesel train. The conductor was lovely and came around to chat with everybody. During the ride there was fantastic narration about the history of the train line. It was super peaceful. The view of the Delaware River was great. There was also a bathroom (very important) and a souvenir shop on the train (with refreshments if you needed).

Once we reached our location we were directed over toward the mine and given plastic bags to collect our minerals in when we completed the exercise. There was a tour that included some more history of the mines, as well as some humor (mostly for the parents) and some action (the kids loved it). Once the tour was complete each person received a bag of dirt (and minerals) to learn to pan with.

We have done this several times before at fairs etc, but I must say we received more minerals than ever before in these bags. We enjoyed it so much RNYD went and purchased an additional bag of Fossils so that he and (A) could do it again and then identify the fossils. Available for purchase at the mine store were these additional bags as well as some more refreshments etc.

What we came across next was very special and worth mentioning as it left a lasting impression on (A). There was a group of Doctoral students from Temple University who were conducting research for their dissertations on site. They set up an actual Archeological dig and were searching for artifacts. The group had set out a bunch of artifacts that they showed the crowds, what they were and even gave demonstrations on how some were used.

We got to ask questions and see how they used sectioning, measuring and sifting tools for their work. They even let the kids help them to sift through the dirt to find items (they LOVED THIS)!!! After spending a long time doing that they even let (A) begin to help them dig and use their tools to carefully dig up the space. He was really into it and helped them to find an arrow head as well as a knife head. Although he was unable to take it home (it is now a part of their dissertation), he was able to take a photo with it, and has the memory. It also sparked an interest. He’s even talking about becoming an archeologist, how neat is that?

We boarded the train after that to go back to the main area in time to catch the Paleontology show which was really cute and informative. I was surprised and happy to see how much (A) knew about dinosaurs from watching Dinosaur Train. This show was followed by a silly ventriloquist who introduced us to his different friends. He made the kids laugh and really got them engaged. In this area there was also refreshments, a bounce house, a bubble station and souvenir stand. We never even made it to the bubbles or bounce house. If I had realized we would have gone even earlier. I was figuring on about two hours of fun (tops) and a ride home, but we boarded the train at 12:30 and when we left at 4:15 we were exhausted without even visiting every attraction.

We stopped for a quick dinner on the way home and both kids slept the entire ride back (always a good sign). When we arrived home (A) wanted to go through his minerals and fossils and identify them, very fun. He was able to match them to their indicator on the pamphlet and we spoke about each one. He keeps telling everyone what an amazing time he had!!

Although this event was one weekend only the Delaware River Railroad excursions has all sorts of amazing events that they do throughout the year (click here to see). Worth mentioning for our kiddies is the Thomas experience ((E) is a HUGE fan so we may have to attend that one too), and the Great Pumpkin Train, and The Polar Express (which are all being added to our events page). All of these tickets sell quickly so be sure to plan in advance.

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