From Dinosaur Train and Thomas the Tank Engine, to The Little Engine That Could and The Polar Express—it’s clear that trains are a big hit with the littles.
That’s why we love trips to the Maple Ridge Museum. Situated in a heritage home in a historic Vancouver neighbourhood, the museum boasts a model railway so impressive that it rivals the one on display at Miniature World in Victoria.
On the last Sunday of every month, the Dewdney-Alouette Railway Society holds a Model Railway Open House (the next one is this weekend). Multiple trains run on several tracks in a depiction of local train routes of the 1920s and ’30s. More than 25 years in the making, the mini railway is complete with the sounds of steam engines, model buildings and detailed background drawings as part of a colourful diorama. Volunteers are on hand to answer questions from curious wannabe conductors (so you don’t have to make it up).
Outside the museum is a restored 1944 Canadian Pacific Railway wood caboose that kids and their adult counterparts can explore.
Just another reason for your little conductors to say ‘thanks, Mom’.
If you’re looking for more educational and fun places to take the kids, be sure to check out our 5 Must-Visit Places for Families in Vancouver.
Tagged under: kids,outings,trains,maple ridge museum,tracks,model railway,historic
Category: attractions
