miniature train and carousel at wheaton regional park

Carousel and train are cheap and fun for the kids. There is a nice playground and picnic area nearby and easy access to Brookside Gardens if you should so choose to go for a stroll.

The Regional Park itself is a really nice place to take a short walk and appreciate the fall colors. We saw the miniature train station and the tracks but we didn't have the chance to see the train. If you are in the area you definitely should visit this park.

This part of the 500-acre Wheaton Regional Park is on the south side and not connected with the Brookside Gardens and Nature Center by car. The miniature train is delightful as it leaves the station for a 10-12 minutes journey into the wooded area of the Park. Periodic whistles bring to mind the train rides of the past with excitement about the sights on each side of the train. There is a trestle and a tunnel as part of the ride (only $1.75). Hike a bit up the hill to the carousel for another old-fashioned experience, complete with a variety of animals situated to give you a sense of full control as you whirl around in a circular motion. The horses in particular are beautifully painted and fully poised to spring into a gallop beneath you. Unlike most commercial rides, this one is a long one that is well worth the $1.75 fee.

The boys loved the carousel and the very detailed and innovative playground equipment. We were a little disappointed that the train was closed due to construction while we were there.

Despite living in this area for several decades, and having visited numerous times, there are always new discoveries at this fabulous (free) park. After a hiatus of several years, we recently visited and realized that there is now a new (to us) huge playground for kids. Additionally, the carousel still runs as does the train. There are still lots of shelters available for rent with grilling facilities. On this most recent trip we discovered a small lake (a large pond really) with geese and water lilies floating in the middle. Wheaton Regional is great because of the abundance of seating and shade. If a seat is not available you can always create your own by throwing yourself onto the lawn on a blanket.

It is so great to find a park so wonderful and free. My kids felt so brave and had so much fun while I as their mother felt they were very safe.

We visit this park often in the summer. It is a very exciting place for the kids. Where else could you find so many exciting attractions in one place and cheap too. There is a running miniature train that takes you for a ride through the woods- with all the touches that kids love-whistle blowing, bridge, tunnel etc.no need to buy tickets in advance, just come and buy tickets at the counter. Be aware that if it has rained and the tracks are wet, the train will not run. There is also an antique carousel -beautiful and fun. There is also a big playground with many climbing equipment. They just recently added ramps for wheelchair and stroller accessibility. Many shelters and picnic tables though on the weekend most are reserved. We usually conclude our visit with a snow cone at the Kona truck parked in the parking lot on the weekends.

We frequently visit the park for the train and and carousel. The train is such a bargain - it's less than $2.00 per person for a 15-minute train ride through the woods. They also have a "spooky train" around Halloween. It's a lot of fun for kids of all ages - I have children ages 16, 8, 7, and 2.

This is like a huge playground. with a train. The small fee for the train is a good value. We usually visit the adjacent Brookside Gardens and walk through the free formal gardens.

Wheaton Regional Park has to be one of the most poorly designed in the area. The parking is atrocious, it's as if someone without any concept of traffic flow or intended audience (small kids and families with strollers). It can be hard to find a spot on either side on a busy day. The park itself (beyond the attractions) is always crowded and many of the picnic pavilions are outdated and badly in need of refurbishment.As for the train, it's an awesome ride and a cheap outing for kids, bit that's undone by the long waiting lines. Seriously, would it kill them to just buy another train and run them every 15 minutes? The carousel is fine, and a good value for the money. The "new" play area is huge and has plenty of stuff to keep kids busy. It doesn't have enough seating for parents, or an easy way to scale the massive concrete fall if you suddenly need to get to your kid. The Blue Monster is a pretty unique feature I haven't seen anywhere else.But sadly this park is just too overcrowded most weekends and the wait for the train is seldom worth it. Go to Cabin John where there's less to do, but it's less crowded.

You have the option to buy very reasonable tickets to ride either the approx 15min mini-train or carousel. Tickets sold separately or by book of 15.The very modern playground has great equipment for all ages. Infants and toddlers area has a sandbox area! An XL rubberized hill to climb up (sneakers recommended) for all ages. Multiple areas to cookout. There is also an indoor area to rent for parties which includes a VIP to the train I believe. Lots of fun. Free parking.

Tucked away off Georgia Ave, this park offers a lot for youngsters.Beyond the carousel and miniature train, this park has an impressive play area.There's a special area for the 'wee ones' (under 3) with rockers, sandpit, and junior-sized slides.There's also an expansive play area for the larger kids.Several large enclosed slides, an amazing web-maze climbing structure and a large rubberized hill are the main attractions to the playground area.Plenty of picnic tables, connecting trails and of course the carousel and train (during season).Parking: FreePark space: Open and sprawlingCost: Minimal for train and carousel

This park is tucked away and it is well worth seeking out. The playground will give your child hours of fun, the carousel and train ride (in season) are also delightful and affordable. While at this park, don't overlook the many hiking trails and the connection via a trail to Brookside Garden. At Brookside the grounds are stunning, especially when everything is in bloom, and there are several wonderful children's events. Parties (birthday, large gatherings, etc) are also available both at Wheaton park and Brookside Gardens. Wheaton has indoor and outdoor options.

This is a real steam engine that runs on a mini track through the woods. The carousel is a beautiful treat. There are rest rooms and its in the park. You can spend a few hours in the park and then do these two sites. Get your tickets at the booth upstairs and then go to your train ride. Sometimes there is a long line but it will be a memory you will treasure. Its open air and almost big enough for four adults to sit across the seats. Fun time in Wheaton regional park.

A great park for families. Updated recently and lots of fun. I wish there was more to see along the train ride. I think it would be a great opportunity to teach kids more about the animals they could find in the woods.