Overview
Day Out With Thomas (TM), Thomas & Friends is a family-oriented festival celebrating one of the world’s most beloved children’s characters—Thomas the Tank Engine—and his friends from the Island of Sodor. Hosted at the historic B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore, United States, this event transforms the venue into an immersive railway wonderland. It offers children and their families a chance to ride behind a life-sized Thomas locomotive, meet favorite characters, and explore the heritage of American railroading in a playful, educational setting.
The 2026 edition of Day Out With Thomas (TM) is scheduled to begin on May 3, 2026, continuing across several days filled with interactive exhibits, themed entertainment, and hands-on activities. This annual celebration attracts families from across the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond, combining nostalgia for classic storytelling with real-world railway experiences.
Unlike a typical music or arts festival, Day Out With Thomas (TM) is designed especially for young children and parents. The focus is on safe, engaging, and educational fun. The event’s partnership with the B&O Railroad Museum creates a unique environment where kids can connect the fictional world of Thomas & Friends with the real locomotives and rail history that inspired it.
Highlights
The heart of the Day Out With Thomas (TM) experience is the train ride behind Thomas himself. Families board coaches pulled by a life-sized replica of the famous blue engine, complete with his cheerful face and signature whistle. Each ride provides a gentle journey around the museum’s historic tracks, offering a memorable experience for children and railway enthusiasts alike.
Beyond the ride, the festival offers a wide range of themed attractions and interactive zones:
- Meet & Greet Sessions: Children can meet Sir Topham Hatt and other Thomas & Friends characters, providing perfect photo opportunities and magical moments.
- Storytelling and Stage Shows: Live storytellers and performers bring Thomas tales to life, encouraging kids to participate through sing-alongs and interactive play.
- Hands-on Activities: Arts and crafts stations, coloring areas, and railway model displays engage children’s creativity and curiosity about trains.
- Educational Exhibits: The B&O Railroad Museum’s exhibits remain open during the event, allowing families to explore authentic locomotives and learn about the history of American railways.
- Merchandise and Souvenirs: Official Thomas & Friends merchandise is available, including toys, apparel, and collectibles, making it easy to take a piece of the experience home.
The overall atmosphere is cheerful, safe, and family-centered, with staff and volunteers dedicated to providing a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. The event also includes food vendors offering kid-friendly meals and snacks, ensuring a comfortable day out for parents and children alike.
Venue & Access
The B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore serves as the venue for this special event. Located near downtown Baltimore, it is one of the most significant railroad museums in the United States, housing an extensive collection of historic locomotives, rolling stock, and railway artifacts. Its spacious grounds and functional tracks make it an ideal setting for a Thomas & Friends-themed festival.
The museum’s address places it within easy reach of major highways and public transportation. Visitors arriving by car can find parking options nearby, including museum lots and public garages. For those using public transit, local bus routes and rideshare services provide convenient access to the venue.
Inside the museum, facilities are designed with families in mind. Stroller-friendly walkways, accessible restrooms, and shaded seating areas ensure comfort throughout the day. The event layout typically includes clearly marked zones for rides, entertainment, and rest areas, helping families navigate easily between activities.
Baltimore’s vibrant city atmosphere adds to the appeal. Families often extend their visit to explore nearby attractions such as the Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center, or the National Aquarium. With numerous hotels and restaurants in the area, visitors can plan a full weekend experience around their Day Out With Thomas (TM) adventure.
Tickets & Price Range
Tickets for Day Out With Thomas (TM) at the B&O Railroad Museum are available online through Ticketweb. Purchasing in advance is highly recommended, as specific ride times and dates often sell out due to high demand.
Ticket categories usually include options for general admission, which covers entry to the museum and all associated activities, as well as timed train ride tickets that allow families to select their preferred departure slot. Children under a certain age may qualify for free or discounted entry, depending on the museum’s policy for that year.
While exact prices vary by date and ticket type, visitors can expect a range that reflects both the event’s premium experience and the inclusion of museum access. It’s advisable to review the ticketing page for the most up-to-date information on availability, age policies, and any special packages or group discounts.
Each ticket purchase supports the museum’s educational mission and preservation efforts, making attendance not only a fun family outing but also a contribution to the continued care of historic railway heritage.
Past Lineups & Vibe
As a family festival rather than a traditional concert event, Day Out With Thomas (TM) doesn’t feature a musical lineup in the conventional sense. Instead, its “lineup” consists of themed attractions, character appearances, and scheduled performances designed around the Thomas & Friends universe.
In past editions, the event has included:
- Appearances by Thomas the Tank Engine and Percy, both as full-sized locomotives.
- Storytime sessions featuring professional narrators and costumed actors.
- Interactive dance parties with Thomas & Friends music and sing-along sessions.
- Educational demonstrations about steam power and railway safety.
The overall vibe is joyful and community-oriented. Parents often describe it as a nostalgic journey that bridges generations—many adults grew up watching Thomas & Friends and now share that joy with their children. Staff and volunteers encourage participation, ensuring that even the youngest visitors feel included and engaged.
The museum’s historic backdrop adds authenticity to the experience. The sight of real steam engines and vintage carriages enhances the magic, grounding the fantasy world of Thomas in tangible history. As a result, the event resonates with both children discovering trains for the first time and adults who appreciate the craftsmanship of classic locomotives.
Tips for First-time Visitors
Planning ahead is key to making the most of your visit to Day Out With Thomas (TM) in Baltimore. Below are some practical tips for families attending for the first time:
- Book Early: Ride times sell out quickly, especially during morning hours. Secure your preferred slot online well in advance.
- Arrive Early: Allow time for parking, check-in, and exploring the museum before your scheduled train ride.
- Dress Comfortably: Expect to spend several hours walking and exploring both indoor and outdoor areas. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.
- Bring Essentials: Pack sunscreen, hats, and water bottles for sunny days. For younger children, strollers and snacks help keep the day smooth.
- Check the Schedule: Activities like storytelling and meet-and-greet sessions occur at specific times. Review the day’s schedule upon arrival.
- Engage in Learning: Take advantage of the museum’s exhibits to teach kids about real trains and railway history.
- Capture Memories: Photography is encouraged, but remember to respect other visitors’ privacy and follow staff instructions near the train tracks.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: The event offers shaded areas and seating for families to rest between activities.
- Plan for Souvenirs: The gift shop can get busy; consider visiting earlier in the day or after your ride to avoid long lines.
- Explore Baltimore: Extend your trip by visiting nearby attractions—many families combine their Day Out With Thomas (TM) visit with other educational or leisure activities in the city.
If traveling from out of town, consider booking accommodation in advance, especially if your visit falls on a weekend. Baltimore offers a range of family-friendly hotels within a short distance of the museum.
Accessibility is a priority for the event. The museum provides ramps and accessible restrooms, and staff members are available to assist visitors with mobility needs. Check the official website for any specific accessibility information or contact details for special arrangements.
Useful Links
For the most accurate and current details about schedules, ticketing, and special programming, visitors should refer to the official sources provided above. The official ticketing page offers comprehensive updates on event times, safety guidelines, and visitor policies.
Lineup, dates, and prices are subject to change. Please check the official sources for the latest information.
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