It’s been two years since we’ve made the trek to Trainland USA and what a great afternoon we just had. Every time we go we see something new and I’m just in awe of what Red has done in 23 years. For any of you within driving distance, if you haven’t made the trip you owe it to yourself to set aside the time. We first went there when our boys were young and Red is probably the guy that got me fired up to start going to yard sales, auctions, train shows, hobby shops, etc. He is still intense and he’s so positive, I just thoroughly enjoy being around him. For those of you with children, pack a picnic and just go, we enjoy being around kids (especially when they are someone else’s) and watching and hearing their reactions. He has lots of buttons for the kids to push and everything is behind glass so yo don’t have to worry about little (or big) hands grabbing onto trains, it’s also a great way to see all parts of the country brought into the display. I hope I get to take grandchildren there someday.
There’s a major amusement park ten miles away with a hotel and a very large casino with horse racing. Something for everyone. Trainland is just east of Des Moines, two miles north of I 80. I know we could go back tomorrow and have a good time.
BT, DT, got the coffee cups! If it’s not too busy, Red will let you slide the glass windows aside so you can take photos/video without worrying about reflections.
Found this post by accident - glad the link was there - headed to DSM in two weeks, and now I definitely have an afternoon pre-planned for ME!!
thanks guys
You need to call Red ahead of time because he’s only officially open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. I’ll bet he would open it up for you if you call him, he’s a great guy.
I’m headed back to Dubuque in early Oct. for a State Contest and that is precisely when the the leaves will be at their peak color, REALLY looking forward to it. I WILL take my camera this time as we are going to take an extra day and do some biking along the Mississippi and in Galena. Fall is just about our favorite time of year followed by the worst time of year…