This post is in partnership with Edaville. All opinions are, as always, my own.
Just the history of this cranberry bog turned amusement park in Carver, MA is interesting. Ellis D. Atwood gave the historic amusement park its name, his initials (E.D.A). He started this railroad by purchasing most of the surviving equipment from Maine’s expansive network of two-foot gauge rails and thus was the making of Edaville Railroad. Atwood’s plan came to fruition as a railroad 5 ½ miles long around his 1,800 acre plantation of cranberries. He used the trains to service his bogs as well as hauling paying customers through the plantation for sightseeing. This operation evolved into a “Family Fun Park”; with an emphasis on carnival type rides, bright lights and extravagant Christmas displays. Edaville Railroad became a local institution, and drew visitors from far and wide.
And now, under new ownership as of 2002, there have been many exciting changes, including the reconfiguration of the entire rail course and the incorporation of vintage amusement rides such as an antique carousel and an illuminated Ferris Wheel. Other attractions throughout the year include, Dino Land, character breakfasts, character meet & greets, “Not So Spooky Halloween” in October, and our Christmas Festival of Lights offering train rides through brilliant displays lit with over 18 million lights during the Christmas season.
Thomas Land
In 2015, the latest and greatest addition to the park debuted – Thomas Land! This section added 11 new rides, along with a stage show and multiple dining and shopping venues while bringing Sodor to life in the picturesque New England landscape of Carver, Massachusetts. The kids’ favorite part about Thomas Land is the experience of the different characters and how the staff of Edaville seem to enjoy their role at the station, as well!
Millie, of course, is partial to riding on the train obviously made for her.
Dino Land Walking Trail
The girls’ absolute favorite is the Dino Trail. This part of the park takes you back in time from the moment you walk through the gates. Keep an eye out for Edaville’s very own Paleontologists, as they will point you in the right direction for a self guided tour, through a prehistoric land featuring over 23 life size animatronic dinosaurs. They move, roar, and snort for all the excitement one could stand! But! Beware, sometimes the kids get in on the dino action, too!
Dino Land also features Dino Blast and Bone Shaker rides, so don’t pass those up!
Experience
The day we chose to go was CHILLY! Think jeans and hoodie weather in June, but there was no stopping us. The 45 minute drive from Southern Mass was easy, and the parking was plentiful! (Even better: Pete the Cat was due to make an appearance that day!)
The girls ran into the park with reckless abandon, knowing the first place we’d stop would be the carousel. From there it was rides, hand holding and so much laughter! As a parent to a child with a disability, I love this park because it is quite walkable and the height restrictions are few and far between. I am also able to get on rides with the kids, so I get to have some fun, too!
A picturesque walk, a ride on the ferris wheel, and rides all day (even in the brisk weather) pieced together the perfect afternoon and early evening of family enjoyment for the kids to the grandparents.
The theme park is rain or shine, so come by today and enjoy all Edaville has to offer! For hours, check here!
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