Second time doing this (each time with a 6 year old). This time was the. Long Island car because we had a member of our party in a wheelchair. They were good about getting her on, but unfortunately we were not able board in the back with her, so by the time we got on, our large group was scattered all over. The kids def picked up on a lack of snow, but once the elves started coming through socializing the kids came around. Santa and the elves took the time to stop at each section of people which was nice. Recommend this! Very cool local experience.

My grandson and I rode in the locomotive of the Calera and Shelby railroad It was an exceptional adventure. The scenery was beautiful and the crew was very friendly and helpful in explaining how a locomotive works.The ride was just over one hour and was perfect. You can choose whether to ride in an open car, a vintage coach,caboose, or the locomotive. You will pay extra to ride in the locomotive or caboose but it is well worth it. Most people never have a chance to ride in a locomotive. There are vintage railroad cars and locomotives scattered around to look at. A museum with all kinds of railroad equipment and memorabilia to browse and a fully stocked gift shop. Spacious parking is available. A day well spent for the whole family.

A relaxing, scenic ride through the backwoods of central Alabama, plus a chance to eyeball a large variety of rail cars, including locomotives, cabooses, work cars and other rolling stock. Convenient to Birmingham, as well. A must for any railroad enthusiast, and anyone who appreciates scenic excursions. There's also a stop to pick up passengers at a nearby winery, although we rode the entire length from the depot.

My husband, son and I had the pleasure of riding the locomotive to Pumpkin Junction . My 19 year old son who is also Autistic is a train fanatic and loved watching Conductor Mike operate the controls in the locamotive. The scenery was beautiful and Punkin Junction which included a wine tasting in Ozan was awesome. Staff were great. They had lots of games and activities, food vendors and the weather was awesome. This was actually our second time traveling with HODR. We always make great memories when we travel with them. We plan to go back for Christmas. Thank you Conductor Mike and HODR staff for such a great experience.

We took the train to Punkin' Junction. Boarding was well organized. The only complaint I have is that the conductor, when talking to the passengers, stood toward the middle of the car and spoke to the back of the car. We were near the front and we didn't hear anything he said. He did not come to the front of the car and speak, or turn around to face the front and repeat the information he had just given to the back of the car. I don't know if he was supposed to have a microphone and it wasn't working or if that is just the way he works.

We had the best time on our ride. The staff were all so friendly and helpful. Our favorite staff member was Rhett. He was kind and friendly to everyone he came in contact with. He kept us all laughing and took the time to answer any questions guests had. Rhett is an asset to have at the Heart of Dixie Railroad. He takes his job seriously, but had fun while he did it. He was such a joy!

We went as a family of 9 and the experience did not live up to the hype for the $30 per person tickets. After sitting on the train for over 30 minutes waiting for Santa to appear in our car, many of the kids, ours included, were restless. We didn’t feel that we got the full experience with Santa and Mrs. Claus as the train had already started up and we felt rushed with our kids.