Ever dreamed of driving a real steam train? At Germany’s FORT FUN Abenteuerland, that childhood fantasy can become reality with the park’s unique “Train Driver for a Day” experience.
The exclusive programme allows participants to step into the cab of the historic Santa Fé Express, learn how the locomotive operates and even drive the train themselves under the supervision of an experienced train driver.
Take the Controls of the Santa Fé Express
Available to adults aged 18 and over, the experience begins at 9:45 a.m. with a personal welcome before participants receive a technical introduction to the train and its operation.
Guests then help prepare the locomotive for the day’s service before joining the regular passenger journeys. During the final trip of the day, participants are given the opportunity to take the controls of the Santa Fé Express themselves under expert supervision.
The experience continues until the park closes.
Drive a Historic Western Train
The Santa Fé Express has been operating at FORT FUN since 1979 and is a replica of an American steam locomotive built by Crown Metal Products.
The train travels along a 3-kilometre route through the theme park and the surrounding forests, offering panoramic views of the Sauerland countryside. The locomotive, tender and four passenger coaches have a combined operating weight of around 75 tonnes when fully loaded.
Lunch and Souvenirs Included
Participants receive a packed lunch at the park’s La Cascada self-service restaurant and also assist with returning the locomotive to its depot after the final journey of the day.
As a souvenir, every participant receives an official FORT FUN train driver’s pair of gloves and a personalised certificate featuring a photo from the experience.
Bring a Companion Along
FORT FUN also offers a discounted companion ticket for guests who want to share the experience and capture the day on camera.
While companions are not permitted inside the locomotive cab for safety reasons, they receive a reserved seat in one of the train’s passenger coaches and can spend the day riding the train or exploring the park between journeys. Lunch is also included.
The “Train Driver for a Day” experience is available on selected dates throughout the season. Prices start at €145.99 for participants and €39.99 for a companion. As only a limited number of places are available, advance booking is required.
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