Maine is known for foods like lobster and blueberries, but we’ve always thought that Vacationland’s ice cream scene should be on the map as well! From soft serve to the scoopable variety, there are lots of local spots to cool down in the summertime. We recently came across this fun way to combine ice cream with history and couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. This just might be one of the most fun train rides in Maine!
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad operates historic two-foot gauge railroad equipment in Portland in an effort to keep the story of this important piece of Maine history alive for future generations.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
First a brief history!
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
At the end of the 19th century, Maine used a system of railroads that ran on rail that sat just two feet apart.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook Between the 1870s and the 1940s, about 200 miles of these rails existed, providing access between many of the state’s less populated rural areas and the larger cities. For this reason, the trains served an important role in the economic expansion of Maine.
These trains carried both passengers and freight, and were the smallest narrow gauge railroads in America!
Learning about this history through the The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company & Museum is made fun with the many events they host throughout the year.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
From the Polar Express…
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
To the Pumpkin Train!
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
It’s hard to choose a favorite special event, but ours is probably the Ice Cream Train!
Ryan Adams / Flickr
Ice cream nights run throughout the summer and tickets will get you a beautiful evening train ride, parking and delicious ice cream to enjoy on the ride.
pleia2 / Flickr
After purchasing your ticket, you’ll get your ice cream cup from the docents that work at the museum.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
You’ll have some time to enjoy your sweet treat while exploring the train and selecting your seat.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
The open air caboose is fun on a warm evening.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
But any of the seat will provide gorgeous views of Casco Bay.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
The remaining dates for the 2018 Ice Cream Rides are June 29th, July 13th, July 27th, August 10th and August 24th. Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $6 for children between 3 and12. Kids under 2 ride free. If you’re a museum member the ride is free. The museum is open from 4pm to 8pm and train rides leave on the hour at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm. To learn more, visit the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company & Museum website. Stay updated on events and schedule changes by following them on Facebook.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum / Facebook
Between the 1870s and the 1940s, about 200 miles of these rails existed, providing access between many of the state’s less populated rural areas and the larger cities. For this reason, the trains served an important role in the economic expansion of Maine.
These trains carried both passengers and freight, and were the smallest narrow gauge railroads in America!
Ryan Adams / Flickr
pleia2 / Flickr
Okay, okay, okay. If it’s lobster you’re after, it’s lobster we’ll give you. Check out this great lobster shack on the Maine coast. We love it!
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