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If you’re into steam trains, and want to ride aboard one without going to a theme park, then the Poway-Midland Railroad might be just the ticket. A keeper of a critical slice of southern California history long lost to time, the Poway-Midland Railroad is a nonprofit heritage railroad charged with preserving various vintage vehicles, restored to functioning status, and now chugging along the perimeter of Old Poway Park for visiting train enthusiasts, child and adult alike.
Although arguably the centerpiece of Old Poway Park, the Poway-Midland Railroad is by no means the only thing to visit here. Peppered throughout the grounds, a number of restored, antique structures invite guests to explore Poway’s past, including the town’s original assembly hall, a locally-focused heritage museum, an early 1900s-era homestead and a functioning blacksmith’s shop. The Park is also home to a farmers’ market every Saturday morning, featuring fresh, local produce and direct access to its growers. Elsewhere, the juried arts and crafts show of the Boardwalk Craft Market lets traditional artists show off and sell their work to local patrons. Next door, the popular Hamburger Factory restaurant serves a standard array of American fare from breakfast to dinner. Across the street, the bright-colored, Old West-styled facades of the Old Poway Village Shopping Center present additional shopping spots, as well as Cafe Lily, a cozy joint for coffee, sandwiches, and sweets.
Different types of trains operate on different days, so check the website for train schedule.
If you are planning a visit, you might want to make a trip on October 28, 2012. Old Poway Park is hosting “Once Upon a Hallowe’en,” a family-friendly event that is now in its fifth year. Celebrate Halloween in a distinctly different way by taking a ride into the past aboard the “Halloween Express.” Participate in a pumpkin carving contest. Brave your way through a haunted house. Children will delight in playing a variety of carnival-type games, racing ducks in the Fountain and making a Hallowe’en “Haunt” to take home as a remembrance of the magical evening. The fun begins at 5:30 pm.
To learn additional details about the Poway Midland Railroad and the Once Upon a Hallowe’en even, visit powaymidlandrr.org
