Overview
Day Out With Thomas (TM), Thomas & Friends in Perris, United States, is a beloved family festival that celebrates the enduring charm of the world’s most famous blue engine, Thomas the Tank Engine. Hosted at the Southern California Railway Museum, this event transforms the historic train grounds into a vibrant, interactive playground for children and parents alike. The 2026 edition begins on April 11, 2026, marking another season of train rides, storytelling, and themed entertainment that brings the Island of Sodor to life in Southern California.
The event is part of the global Day Out With Thomas (TM) tour, which travels to heritage railways across the United States and beyond. Each stop allows families to meet life-sized versions of Thomas and sometimes his friends, enjoy rides behind a working steam engine, and immerse themselves in a world of railway history blended with imaginative play. In Perris, the festival’s setting within one of California’s largest railway museums adds an extra layer of authenticity and nostalgia.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about attending the festival — from what to expect and how to get there, to ticket options, past highlights, and insider tips for first-time visitors.
Highlights
Day Out With Thomas (TM) offers a carefully curated program that balances entertainment, education, and interactive family fun. The experience is designed to engage children while also appealing to adults who appreciate vintage trains and the magic of shared discovery. Some of the most popular highlights include:
- Ride with Thomas: The central attraction is a real train ride pulled by a full-sized Thomas the Tank Engine. The ride typically lasts about 20–25 minutes, giving families a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of the museum’s scenic tracks.
- Meet & Greet Experiences: Visitors often get to meet costumed railway characters or take photos with large-scale models of Thomas and his friends, such as Percy or Sir Topham Hatt.
- Storytelling and Sing-Alongs: Children can gather for storytelling sessions inspired by the Thomas & Friends universe, along with sing-alongs that encourage participation and creativity.
- Hands-On Activities: Craft stations, temporary tattoos, and play zones are set up throughout the grounds, letting kids build, paint, and create their own railway-inspired art.
- Heritage Railway Displays: The Southern California Railway Museum features an impressive collection of locomotives, trolleys, and historical exhibits. Festivalgoers can explore these between Thomas rides for a deeper appreciation of railway history.
- Food and Souvenirs: Snack stands, picnic areas, and merchandise booths ensure that families can relax and take home a memory of their day — from classic railway memorabilia to Thomas-themed toys.
Each year, the event evolves slightly, adding new interactive zones or themed storytelling corners to keep the experience fresh. The combination of nostalgia, discovery, and family bonding makes Day Out With Thomas (TM) a standout event for children ages two to six, while still offering plenty for adults to enjoy.
Venue & Access
The Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, California, serves as both the festival venue and a living museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of rail transportation. The museum’s expansive grounds, historic train collections, and operational tracks make it the ideal home for Day Out With Thomas (TM).
Located roughly halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, the museum is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Visitors driving from Los Angeles can expect a journey of about 1.5–2 hours via the I-215 South, while those coming from San Diego can take the I-15 North and CA-74 East. On-site parking is available, but arriving early is strongly recommended as spaces can fill quickly during peak festival hours.
For those using public transit, regional bus services connect Perris to nearby cities, and the Metrolink Perris Valley Line offers a convenient train connection from Riverside. From the Perris-Downtown station, the museum is just a short taxi or rideshare trip away. The museum’s accessibility features include wheelchair-friendly paths, restrooms, and boarding platforms to ensure all guests can fully enjoy the event.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum’s permanent exhibits as part of their festival experience. From beautifully restored streetcars to vintage diesel locomotives, the museum’s collection provides a fascinating backdrop that enhances the Thomas-themed festivities.
Tickets & Price Range
Tickets for the 2026 Day Out With Thomas (TM) in Perris can be purchased through the official ticketing platform. Advance booking is strongly recommended as sessions often sell out quickly, particularly on weekends and during early morning time slots.
Each ticket generally includes entrance to the Southern California Railway Museum for the day, a scheduled train ride with Thomas, and access to all on-site activities such as storytelling, play zones, and live entertainment. Additional optional experiences — such as premium photo packages or commemorative merchandise — may be available for purchase on-site.
For the most accurate and up-to-date ticketing details, including price tiers, group discounts, and time-slot availability, please visit the official ticketing page below:
Families planning to attend should note that tickets are typically required for everyone aged two and above. Infants may be admitted free of charge, but policies can vary slightly each year. Purchasing tickets online in advance not only secures your preferred ride time but also helps streamline entry at the gate.
Past Lineups & Vibe
Although Day Out With Thomas (TM) is not a music festival in the traditional sense, it has its own distinctive “lineup” of attractions and characters that delight fans year after year. Past editions at the Southern California Railway Museum have featured appearances by Thomas himself, as well as special visits from other engines from the Thomas & Friends franchise. These character appearances, combined with the museum’s dedicated volunteers and staff, create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
The vibe at the festival is joyful, family-oriented, and filled with energy. Parents often describe it as a place where nostalgia meets discovery — where adults can relive their own childhood memories while watching their children’s faces light up with excitement. Volunteers dressed in conductor uniforms and cheerful staff members contribute to the immersive experience, ensuring smooth operations and plenty of photo opportunities.
In previous years, the event has also featured local performers, storytellers, and children’s activity leaders who bring additional entertainment to the grounds. While the focus is always on the Thomas & Friends universe, the inclusion of railway history exhibits and educational displays ensures that visitors of all ages find something meaningful to enjoy.
The Southern California Railway Museum’s open-air layout, vintage train cars, and family-friendly amenities combine to create a relaxed yet stimulating environment. Whether you’re riding aboard Thomas, exploring the museum’s heritage exhibits, or enjoying a picnic under the California sun, the experience captures the charm of small-town festivals with a global brand’s quality and attention to detail.
Tips for First-time Visitors
If you’re planning your first Day Out With Thomas (TM) in Perris, a bit of preparation can help you make the most of your visit. Below are some practical tips gathered from past attendees and festival organizers:
- Book Early: The event often sells out, especially on weekends. Secure your preferred ride time as soon as tickets are released.
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled train ride. This allows time for parking, check-in, and exploring the grounds before boarding.
- Dress Comfortably: The festival is largely outdoors, so wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection — hats, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles are highly recommended.
- Bring Snacks: While food is available on-site, packing light snacks can help keep little ones happy while waiting for activities or rides.
- Check the Weather: April in Southern California typically offers mild, sunny conditions, but temperatures can fluctuate. Bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Explore Beyond Thomas: Don’t miss the museum’s historic locomotives and streetcars. They add depth to the experience and provide great photo backdrops.
- Accessibility: The museum’s facilities are designed to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. If you need assistance, staff and volunteers are available to help.
- Plan for Souvenirs: The gift shop and pop-up merchandise booths offer exclusive Thomas & Friends items. Setting a small budget for souvenirs can prevent impulse spending.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring bottled water or refillable containers. Hydration stations are usually available throughout the grounds.
- Capture the Memories: There are photo opportunities everywhere — from the iconic Thomas engine to the vintage train exhibits. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Many families find that a single day is enough to experience all the main attractions, but those with a deep interest in railways may wish to spend extra time exploring the museum’s exhibits. If you’re traveling from outside the area, consider making a weekend trip out of it, as Perris is conveniently located near other Southern California attractions.
Useful Links
For official information, ticketing, and updates, the following links are essential resources for planning your visit:
Additional updates, including special event announcements or schedule adjustments, are typically posted on the official ticketing page as the event date approaches. Visitors are encouraged to check back frequently for the most current information.
Lineup, dates, and prices are subject to change. Please check the official sources for the latest information.
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