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Spend the day with Thomas the Tank Engine. Photo: Stephen Smith
All aboard for fun with Thomas! Fans of Thomas the Tank Engine — and train lovers in general — can delight in the news that the popular Day Out With Thomas event will return to the Seattle area once again during summer 2026.
A life-size, talking Thomas will visit the Northwest Railway Museum in Snoqualmie, Washington, over three weekends this summer: July 10–12, 17–19 and 24–26. Advance booking is recommended and timed tickets are on sale now.
Find good-to-know tips below, but first, let’s get to the fun times awaiting families during the Day Out With Thomas: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour.
Day Out With Thomas itinerary
- Take a short ride in a train car pulled by a life-size Thomas the Tank Engine and arrive at the activities area.
- Enjoy music-inspired activities and live entertainment.
- Get a temporary tattoo and play with toys in the Play Pod.
- Follow an activity sheet with four key stations to visit for a free giveaway.
- Say hello to Sir Topham Hatt (the stern controller of railways on the Island of Sodor).
- Visit the railway museum exhibit hall; admission is included in your Thomas ticket price.
- See a scale model railway display.
- Shop for exclusive Thomas merch (parents, you’ve been warned).
- Hop back aboard with Thomas for a short train ride to the top of Snoqualmie Falls and then back to the depot.
Tips for families
- You’ll need to arrive at least 30 minutes before your ticket time, so keep that in mind when planning your day.
- Allow two hours for the excursion and play time, not including arriving 30 minutes ahead of your ticket time.
- Some years, the weather during this event has been super hot. Pack water, sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats if the forecast calls for a scorcher. Remember, it’s a rain-or-shine event.
- This event has sometimes involved crowds and waiting; pack your patience and consider making sure kids have full bellies before you arrive. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.
- Say “hi” to Thomas for us and have fun!
If you go to Day Out With Thomas ...Location: The Seattle-area Day Out With Thomas event takes place at the Northwest Railway Museum’s Snoqualmie Depot, located at 38625 S.E. King St. in Snoqualmie. It’s about a 35-minute drive from Seattle and parking is free. Dates: Day Out With Thomas takes place over three weekends: July 10–12, 17–19 and 24–26, 2026. Timed sessions start on the hour. Age recommendation: The Thomas experience is designed for children ages 8 and younger, though all ages are welcome. Cost: Tickets cost $34 per person; $30 per person for groups of 20 or more. Tickets are required for guests ages 1 and older; babies younger than 1 ride free on an adult’s lap. Buy tickets in advance online. Tickets typically sell out in advance, but day-of tickets will be sold if space is available. |
Editor’s note: This article was originally published several years ago, and most recently updated on March 25, 2026, by ParentMap’s family fun editor, Meredith Charaba, with details for the 2026 Day Out With Thomas event.
