With outbreaks of Covid19 still lingering, family visits to crowded summertime attractions like beaches and theme parks may seem a bit dicey this year. Add to that the uncertainties of a post-virus economy and it’s no wonder that most folks will be playing it safe in the months ahead. Still, with cabin fever bearing down, the pressure to break free is mounting – especially when kids are involved. Fortunately many heritage and scenic railways across the USA and Canada are making cautious moves toward getting operations back on track.
Fresh air and wide open spaces are common characteristics of many heritage train rides. Open-air gondolas and coaches, among the most popular attractions at many heritage and scenic railroads, offer particular reassurance during times of uncetain viral threat. Open-air cars also offer unobstructed views of the woodlands, mountain ranges, rivers and canyons that often highlight scenic and historic routes. Vintage Pullman and other enclosed passenger coaches feature openable windows or central air conditioning to keep fresh air flows steady.
For railbuffs looking to super-distance, railbikes offer a fit-and-fun way to stay on track during the pandemic. Two- and four-seater rail-bikes rely on pedal power to head off the beaten track to remote wilderness areas no longer served by traditional trains. Because railbiking maximizes safe space, railbikers are generally are free to remove face coverings once they clear the stations and common areas – even in jurisdications where facial covering rules are in effect.
Many scenic and heritage train rides – including railbikes – depart vintage stations that hold landmark status. Often gems of railroadiana, they sometimes boast local designations or even place on the National or Canadian registers of historic places. These stations commonly contain ticketing areas as well as gift shops, food services, and museum exhibits.
Unfortunately, while a number of these architectural gems are refitted with modern air conditioning or are otherwise well-ventilated, a significant percentage are not. To be on the safe side, check ahead. Most rail attractions in the USA and Canada offer online ticketing which simpifies boarding and enables wary visitors to avoid in-station contacts. Depending on your aprehension level, snacks can be packed ahead and you may want to save indoor museum visits for another time.
Face coverings are recommended or required by all railways. Not only do they help protect against airborne Covid19 particles, they help remind young engineers to keep hands away from the face. An authentic train engineer’s bandana can be a great way to get otherwise resiatant young engineers to keep face covering in place. Depending on individual concern levels, eye protection can offer an elevated level of protection. Simple eyeglasses or sun glasses will do the trick, but goggles offer an extra measure of protection and can look pretty cool.
While some rail attactions have installed them, it’s best not to rely on hand santizer dispensers being available. BYO. If low inventories have made securing hand sanitizer an impossibility, online alternatives periodically surface. Otherwise, consider DIY. While the FDA has not given homemade hand sanitizers it’s blessing, a number of reputable online resources do provide recipes for basic alcohol-based hand sanitizer you can make at home. The simple how-to for making kid-safe hand sanitizer published by Parents Magazine meets the 60% alcohol standard for Covid-19 resistance. Safety tip: before you go, test sanitizer on a small patch of your child’s skin to make sure there is no adverse reaction.
Wearing of face coverings is also essential and young ones can be encouraged to stay protected when masks and bandanas are part of the fun! Amazon and other online resources offer affordable train-themed and Thomas the Tank Engine appliques that are easily sewed, glued, or ironed onto basic masks and coverings – as well as sweats and tees. Thomas The Tank Engine temporary tattoos are also a safe and easy way to make sure your child is part of the funwhile resisting exposure to viral sources.
Rail attractions across the USA and Canada are getting back on track. Regular operations, with safety precautions like face coverings and safe distancing, are slowly being restored. And summer’s holiday train ride events – often coupled with entertainment, food, and kid’s activities – are highly anticipated. Labor Day, Fall Foliage, Halloween, and the Christmas season bring special runs to many heritage and scenic railways. And Day Out with Thomas events rank high at a number of railways as well. With careful planning and proper personal safety precautions, the watch words are “All aboard!” For complete listings of scenc and heritage train rides in the U.S. and Canada check out Train Traveling guide to Train Rides.
