Yakima Valley Trolley

We've been having fun with the Relatives from Iowa. The Rising Star's father and stepmother are visiting- they rode the train (Amtrack) from the Midwest and have, oddly enough, spent quite a bit of their vacation with us riding trains, too! Today, after a visit to the Yakima Farmer's Market, Papa's office, and our favorite bakery, Essencia, we went to the historic Yakima Valley Trolley at South Third Avenue and West Pine Street near downtown Yakima. For $15 we purchased a family pack of tickets, enjoyed some good conversation about old trains and trolleys, took a ride on the trolley, and got some fun pictures. We've gone on the trolley before- at Christmas time they have Santa Claus and candy canes- but the relatives hadn't, and we always enjoy ourselves.

Grandpa Dave.

Papa.


Avery.

Miles.

We were excited to hear about some of the goals for the trolley organization- they have the wire now to replace the copper wire stolen by meth addicts a few years ago, but they expect it will take tile the end of the summer before the have all the permits and can get the Yakima-Selah run going again. That would be a lovely little trip. We can't wait.

There's also some planning happening to secure funding and approval to extend the run up to Franklin Park and the Yakima Valley Museum (and the Soda Fountain!) and all the way into downtown to the Convention Center (and the hotels!). That would be delightful, and really tie together a nice package for tourism and our town's history. How fun for the folklife festival and other events that would be!

We also found out that the trolleys can be chartered for just $110 an hour, year round. I'm thinking that sounds like a fun birthday party activity for three boys I know who all have practically the same birthday! What do you think?

This afternoon they're at our friend's retirement party at the Historic Rosedell Mansion Bed and Breakfast, just down the street. It's the only B & B in the neighborhood, and we've been quite pleased to watch the progress as the new owners have worked hard, restoring and caring for their showpiece home.