Thomas Land at Edaville Family Theme Park is one of the newest family fun destination in New England. Located in Carver Massachusetts Thomas Land brings the Island of Sodor to life and covers over 10 acres.
*admission provided for our family.
Guide to Visiting Thomas Land:
There are three different sections to Edaville USA: Cran Central, Dino Land and the newest – Thomas Land.
During our first visit we started off at the back of the amusement park at Thomas Land as that was one of the main attractions we wanted to see. I wanted to make sure we were able to see all of the Thomas and friends attractions, take a ride on the train and see explore Dino Land in case the little one got cranky and we needed to leave. Since he usually naps around 2-3 we got to the park at opening to try and fit everything in.
Where is Thomas the Train Land?
Located at Edaville Railroad at 5 Pine St in Carver MA. It is about an hour south of Boston, and 30-45 minutes north of Cape Cod.
What age is Thomas Land For?
Most of the rides were geared for younger children, some do have a 42 in requirement.There’s quite an age gap between my three boys ages 10, 8, and 2 so I wasn’t sure if the older boys would be too old and bored. The older kids had a good time although Dino Land was their favorite (they both love dinosaurs and Jurassic World). Ages 3-6 in their prime “Thomas the Train” fan years would have been perfect but since the older boys are really close with their toddler brother they were excited to bring him on all of the rides.
Thomas the Train fans can visit popular destinations including Knapford Station and enjoy rides and attraction featuring Thomas and friends. Rides and attractions include Cranky’s Crane Drop, Flynn the Fire Truck ride, Harold’s Life Off helicopter ride,Troublesome Trucks Runaway roller coaster, meeting Sir Topham Hat and more!
Tips for Visiting Thomas Land:
Visit midweek
We visited midweek, on a Tuesday and it was great to see that there was little to no line at almost all of the rides including the roller coaster. A number of rides the children were able to go on multiple times back to back as there was no one else waiting.
Get a Map & Plan Your Day:
Pick up a map at the amusement park entrance, or visit Edaville.com before your trip and plan which attractions, rides, and shows you would like to see. Also check on height restrictions.
Bring a stroller for young children
There is a lot of walking and the three areas of Edaville are spread out.
Pack a cooler with lunch & drinks:
If you’re looking for ways to save on your visit to Edaville Family Theme Park, I recommend packing a lunch. There are places to sit around the park, or you can also pack a sheet or blanket and enjoy a picnic style lunch on the grass.
Food and beverages are also found throughout the park if you prefer to purchase lunch, drinks, or snacks. I found the prices to be high like other theme parks ($6 for a slice of pepperoni pizza) and would pack a lunch on a return visit. I’ll prefer to pack a lunch and drinks and allow the kids to pick out one special treat during our visit; ice cream, pretzel, popcorn ect.
Wear Sunblock & Comfortable Shoes:
Be prepared to spend at least half of the day on your feet in the sun. There are a few areas of shade, but for the most part the rides are out in the open with no-shade. Apply sunblock before entering the park and reapply as needed.
Check the Train Ride Schedule
Take a scenic tour around Edaville and the cranberry bogs with Thomas the tank engine leading the way. During our midweek visit there was plenty of room on the train, but I would expect weekends to be busier. Arrive 10-15 before the train departure to make sure you get a seat.
The Thomas the Train ride left on the hour every hour during our visit, there was also an announcement to remind guests that the train was boarding for the upcoming ride. There are no bathrooms on the train, so make sure to have children try to go before boarding. There is no limit on the number times you can ride the train.
Watch the Cran-tastic Cranberry Jubilee Live Show:
The Cran-tastic Cranberry Jubilee Live Show has a number of show times throughout the day. Seating is limited, but depending on the day there may only be a small crowd.
Character meet & greets
Meet and take your picture with Sir Topham Hat, Gordon, James, Emily, Percy after the Cran-tastic Cranberry Jubilee Live Show. Thomas the Train is also available for pictures before and after the train rides.
Climb and slide at Sodor Play Zone
Escape the heat and cool down at the indoor Sodor Play Zone. Kids ages 4-12 can climb, slide and play in the soft ball area and ball pit. I was happy to see that this area is supervised by a staff member to ensure that kids are following the rules. There is a smaller toddler play area for the younger siblings. Socks are required, and are available to purchase for $2.
Stop by Cran Central Junction (Ellis’ Playhouse)
It may look like just a building, but there is plenty to do inside Cran Central Junction at Elli’s Playhouse. If it’s a hot day, it’s the perfect area to escape the heat and play inside.
- 1st Floor: gift shop, bumper cars, arcade
- 2nd Floor: Mini Carousel, Gas Station ride, Model Trains, Cranberry Ball Pit and the Cranberry Museum.
- For those in wheelchairs, you can access the 2nd floor by following the side walk around to the building, which leads to the second floor entrance.
Take a self guided Tour through Dino Land:
At Dino Land, families can go on a self-guided adventure through the walking trails. Children get to explore and learn about 23 life like dinosaurs.
Visit the Gift Shop
Pick up a souvenir, exclusive Thomas Land merchandise or play with the wooden train tables at Knapford Gift Co. gift shop.
Check for Edaville Coupons:
Massachusetts & Rhode Island residents – MA/RI pay only $30 a ticket when purchasing tickets online. You will need to choose a specific date, once you enter your MA/RI billing address, the price will reduce to $30 a ticket, a savings of 23% off gate admission.
Breathe New Hampshire Fun Pass– Coupon includes one free admission with the purchase of one full-price admission at the gate only.
Edaville Discounts- Check the calendar for special promotions including Military Appreciate Day, Teacher Appreciation Day, Grandparent Day ect.
