Are tickets required in advance?

Yes, purchasing tickets beforehand is recommended as trains often sell out quickly.

Is the ice cream included with the ticket?

Yes, each passenger receives complimentary ice cream during the train ride.

Is this experience suitable for children?

Absolutely! This adventure is specially designed for preschool-aged children and families.

How long is the train ride?

The total experience lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, including activities and the ride itself.

Is parking available at the depot?

Yes, free parking is available at the Springdale depot for all train guests.

Can I bring snacks or drinks on board?

Outside food is generally not permitted, but ice cream and refreshments are provided during the trip.

Sweet Ice Cream Social Train Ride in Springdale, AR

Experience a charming and unique outing with the Ice Cream Social train ride hosted by Arkansas & Missouri Railroad in Springdale, Arkansas. Perfect for families with young children, this delightful adventure combines a scenic train journey with tasty ice cream treats served onboard and fun activities at the depot. As you enjoy the nostalgic ambiance of a vintage train ride, you'll be supporting important efforts toward restoring and expanding the nearby J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum. This hands-on cultural experience offers a wonderful chance to introduce pre-schoolers to the joy of trains, community involvement, and great snacks. Along the trip, passengers can relax while taking in the relaxing views of Arkansas’s countryside, making this a sweet outing that blends fun with purpose. Whether you’re a local looking for an easy day trip or visiting from nearby cities, the Ice Cream Social is a memorable way to enjoy family-friendly entertainment and connect with local heritage.

About Arkansas & Missouri Railroad

Arkansas & Missouri Railroad operates seasonal and themed excursion trains out of Springdale, Arkansas. The railroad offers a variety of public events and scenic trips that highlight the Ozark Mountains and local rail heritage. Popular offerings include Holiday Express runs from Springdale, Monett, and Van Buren featuring vintage railcars decorated for the season, hot cocoa, classic Christmas stories, and visits from Santa. Seasonal specials include Mardi Gras and Halloween-themed rides, Christmas in July, and family-focused events like Ice Cream Socials that support the J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum and the restoration of Frisco Caboose #1288.

Dining and celebration experiences include Father’s Day BBQ & Banjo and Mother’s Day High Tea, both held aboard vintage cars with live music and curated food service. The Springdale to Winslow trip is a three-hour scenic route through the Boston Mountain range, traversing valley trestles and the 1,700-foot Winslow tunnel to showcase the natural landscape of the Ozarks.

Ticketed excursions combine historic rail equipment, seasonal décor, and themed programming suitable for families, holiday groups, and rail enthusiasts. Events are presented as curated train experiences with depot activities, onboard entertainment, and community-focused fundraising elements. Schedules, ticketing details, and accessibility information are published by the railroad for each event. For visitors seeking scenic rail travel, seasonal celebrations, or museum-supporting outings, Arkansas & Missouri Railroad provides a range of documented, themed train experiences from its Springdale location. Advance reservations are recommended for holiday and themed trains; limited seating and scheduled departure times affect availability; book early online today.