Sweet Ice Cream Social Train Ride in Springdale, AR
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families with young children
Overview
Hop aboard the Ice Cream Social train in Springdale for a tasty and fun family adventure. Enjoy ice cream, train rides, and activities—all while supporting a local museum restoration.
Details
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.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Depot Activities
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to enjoy pre-ride games and crafts at the depot.
Bring a Light Jacket
Inside the vintage train cars, temperatures can be cool, so a light jacket ensures comfort during your ride.
Book Tickets in Advance
Seats fill quickly for the Ice Cream Social, so purchase your tickets ahead of time to guarantee your spot.
Watch for Small Children
This experience is ideal for preschoolers, so keep a close eye on young participants during on-board activities.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum exhibits on railroad history
- Nearby Shiloh Square for dining and local artisan shops
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer commonly seen along the route
- Various songbirds and small woodland animals near the depot
History
The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad preserves important rail heritage, with the Ice Cream Social supporting restoration projects at the J. Reilly McCarren Transportation Museum.
Conservation
The railroad promotes sustainable tourism by maintaining historic railcars and minimizing environmental impact along its routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- From the rear observation car for scenic countryside shots
- Depot platform during boarding
- Alongside the tracks during scheduled stops
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Lightweight Jacket
Keep warm during cooler spring rides onboard the vintage train.
spring specific
Sun Hat
Protect yourself from the summer sun while waiting on the platform or at depot activities.
summer specific
Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the depot and on board the train.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture sweet moments onboard the train and at the depot during your adventure.