Train - Riding with the Engineer?

[Luv Bunnies]

My DS20 has Asperger's and is a huge train aficionado. Does anyone know if they're still allowing people to ride with the engineer? If so, when do we sign up? Do we try to get a slot in the morning, like the Lilly Belle? Or do we ask when we're boarding the train during the day? I would love to make this happen for him. He knows the entire history of the railroad and can even identify each engine just by listening to its whistle. If space is an issue, he would be fine riding without DH or me. He's very high-functioning and has been volunteering at a local park that has a little train attraction. Thanks for any info. or advice!

 

[Mousequake]

While I've never done it, my understanding is that you ask at the Main Street Train Station at any point during the day. If it's available, they'll get you on the next one. No need to make a reservation in the morning.

 

[jetskigrl]

My DS is a huge train fan and we have been able to do the tender ride on a few occasions. Stop by the Main Street station in the morning and speak to one of the conductors working inside. They will let you know if there are any trains running that day that have the tender (I believe there are only 2 that they can use for tender rides). If so, they will check with the engineer the next time the train comes into the station to see if they will allow it. There are reasons why they can't take people on rides though (ex. too hot that day, need to take on water, etc) or there might be other people already waiting so it is kind of hit or miss. But it is definitely worth stopping in early to increase your chances.

 

[Meriweather]

I hope you can get on one.....it is a fun experience.

We went by in the morning to see what was running and were told a time to come back to check and see if we could ride.
We could