All aboard for household enjoyable at Pullman’s historic mannequin practice present

CHICAGO (WGN) — If you’re in search of one thing enjoyable to do that weekend, head to the Historic Pullman Foundation’s Exhibit Hall for a one-of-a-kind mannequin practice expertise.

It’s an interactive occasion the entire household can take pleasure in, freed from cost. The present runs by Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.

“This event started years ago with my son and I, we set up our trains and we invited local kids. It was a big success,” mentioned Thomas McMahon, a volunteer with the Historic Pullman Foundation.

McMahon mentioned the distinctive practice present continues to develop every year.

“The star of the show is our Polar Express exhibit,” McMahon mentioned.

According to McMahon, the director of the beloved 2004 movie starring Tom Hanks drew inspiration from the Pullman neighborhood.

“The director of The Polar Express lived four blocks away from here. He hung around Pullman as a teenager,” McMahon mentioned. “He sent a production team to Pullman. Our clock tower is showcased in The Polar Express.”

Visitors have the prospect to drive the trains themselves and push the buttons that management the accent vehicles.

“I love it. I love how it’s interactive. They get to hold the controls,” attendee Sharon Oliver mentioned. “They did a great job with the set up.”

Guests are additionally handled to a golden ticket good for a cup of sizzling chocolate at a close-by espresso store. Volunteers hope the expertise evokes the subsequent era to take up the timeless passion.

“You learn so much by working with model trains. Youngsters can learn electricity, engineering, architecture and they can have fun doing it,” McMahon mentioned.

For extra data on the occasion, click here.