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Family Train Adventure at Pumpkin Junction by Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum - Birmingham

Family Train Adventure at Pumpkin Junction by Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

Caleraeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, with minimal walking required

Overview

Hop aboard a scenic train ride to Pumpkin Junction in Alabama and enjoy fall festivities with hayrides, games, and pumpkin picking—perfect for family fun!

Calera, Alabama

Pumpkin Junction

Great for families! • 75 mins • Celebrate the arrival of fall!

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About This Adventure

Experience a delightful 75-minute adventure aboard the Calera & Shelby Railroad to Pumpkin Junction! Enjoy family games, hayrides, and delicious food vendors while selecting the perfect pumpkin. This charming event combines scenic train rides with festive fun, making it an unforgettable outing for all ages. Don’t miss out!

An Old-Fashioned Family Fun Event for a short ride to Pumpkin Junction.

Duration

  • 75 Minutes

About

  • More than just a place to purchase a pumpkin, it’s a destination for family fun, food vendors and more! Mark your calendars now!
  • Board the Calera & Shelby Railroad for a short ride through the woods of Shelby County to the Pumpkin Junction.
  • Arrive at the Junction to purchase your favorite pumpkins, hop aboard a hayride, play all kinds of family games, and more!
  • Food vendors will be at the Junction for lunch, snacks, drinks or sweet treats!
  • When the train whistle blows after your approximate 45 minutes at the Junction, bring all your things back onboard for the ride back to the Depot.
  • The Shelby & Southern Narrow Gauge Steam Railroad will be operating with departures throughout the day.
  • Purchase tickets at the Shelby & Southern Depot next to the Gift Shop.

Event Details

  • Expect to depart the Depot promptly on schedule. Please plan to arrive on the Museum grounds at least 60 minutes prior to your selected ticket time in order to pick up your tickets from the Depot, do the activities on the grounds and to utilize the restrooms at the Giftshop.
  • Boarding will occur approximately 15 minutes prior to each scheduled departure.
  • Please email tickets@hodrrm.org to order the third locomotive ticket.

More information

Refreshments

  • Snacks and drinks are available for purchase at our Gift Shop and at the Meadow.
  • Purchases at the Meadow are for cash only.
  • The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum's policy is that no food or drinks be brought on the train.
  • Please finish your refreshments before boarding the train at the depot.
  • This policy also applies to any intermediate train stops where food or drinks may be sold.

Restrooms

  • There are no working restrooms on our vintage railcars.
  • Please use the restroom at the Gift Shop prior to boarding.

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for pumpkin selection

Get to Pumpkin Junction early in the day to have the best pick of pumpkins and avoid crowds.

Dress for outdoor weather

Wear comfortable clothes and layer up to stay warm during the train ride and outdoor activities.

Bring cash for vendors

Cash is recommended for food and craft vendors at Pumpkin Junction for quick transactions.

Plan for traffic and parking

Arrive a bit earlier to secure parking, especially during peak fall festival hours.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Eastern bluebird
  • White-tailed deer

History

The Calera & Shelby Railroad dates back to the early 20th century, originally serving local coal and agriculture industries.

Conservation

The event emphasizes eco-friendly practices like waste reduction and encouraging visitors to carpool or use public transit.

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Adventure Hotspots in Birmingham

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Good shoes for walking around the pumpkin patch, hayrides, and outdoor festivities.

fall specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Layers help adjust to fluctuating temperatures during outdoor activities.

fall specific

Sun protection

Essential

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen keep you comfortable on sunny days.

fall specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture family memories and scenic views throughout the day.