This is no ordinary museum -- this is an actual train! The volunteers at the Gulf Coast Museum are dedicated to preserving trains; it's obvious. They took the time to talk to my sons about trains and posed for photos with them. The conductor and brakeman walked through the cars talking to passengers and ensuring everyone was enjoying the ride. Their work is surely a labor of love for this non-profit organization.

You can first go into an old caboose and historic sleeper cars and read about the train's history. They also have a gift shop with train memorabilia. We purchased a railroad spike with a metal train glued on top that my sons have in their room as a nice souvenir.

For the train ride, I suggest sitting in the open car behind the engine. It is a little smoky and a little loud, but it's thrilling for the kids. After a while, we walked through the cars to the snack car and purchased sodas, cookies, and candy at reasonable prices. I found that I couldn't sit in that car for long, as I was getting a little motion sick.

At the halfway point of the ride, the train stops and the engine uncouples and moves to the other side. You can stand right next to it and watch how this works. It was really amazing to be that close.

We again enjoyed the open car on the return, but could have sat in any one of the coaches, as there were few people on the train.

The engine is diesel-powered and runs the 1.5-hour trip every weekend, year round at 11am and 2pm, rain or shine. No reservations are necessary. Trains depart from their station on 83rd Street East in Parrish, behind the Post Office. Fares are:
Adults: $10.00 (Ages 12 and up)
Children: $6.00 (Ages 3-11)
Infants: Free (Ages 2 and under)

Special weekend events are planned as well. You can get further information by calling them at 877/869-0800 or from their website.