It is difficult to find out the origins of indoor train ride that today can be found in various locations such as amusement parks, malls, and open public spaces. Research does indicate however that among the first people to design such trains was Paul Allen Sturtevant who began building these types of trains as a hobby. His first model was produced in 1928 in his PA Sturtevant engineering laboratory, located in Glen Ellyn Illinois. He eventually made them available for rental to department stores. Unfortunately, his activities were cut short due to the start of the Second World War when there was a shift away from the manufacture of consumer goods.
So it appears that indoor train rides have been around for just over 90 years. However today there are a number of variants that are based loosely on that original design. There have also been a number of innovations that have allowed entrepreneurs and other operators (for example, Dinis) to take advantage of technological developments to make the choice of which type of train would suit their unique needs.
The options for various themes and designs are today almost unlimited. Whereas those original indoor trains were designed to resemble the steam trains of the 1920s today the designs can include designs where the ‘locomotive’ which is situated at the front of the train carriages can resemble a wide variety of characters. These can include those with elephant heads, cartoon characters, designs echoing Christmas themes, vintage theme, ocean animals, clowns, snakes, and dragons – and beloved characters such as Thomas the Tank Engine. There are additional information for you to know train rides. In addition to these designs and manufacturers can also design a theme to the specifications of the operator.
Technological innovation has resulted in the availability of two main types of indoor train rides, tracked and trackless. The tracked indoor train rides are perfect for use as a closed-loop system for indoor use. These are primarily aimed at the younger members of the family. However, there are versions where both adults and children can enjoy the experience the fun together. Many of these trains are electrical, with the power being supplied through the rails.
Trackless trains have also become extremely popular. These trains are battery-operated and are ideal for use in larger spaces where the route of the training can be changed at a moment’s notice. Aside from being used indoors in venues such as malls they are also perfect for the transportation of visitors to larger attractions such as zoos and safari parks. They can also run on a variety of surfaces such as tarmac, wood, tile, and concrete. They are also easy to relocate from venue to venue, allowing the operator to maximize revenue by following the crowds, for instance to venues where there are special events.
The trackless indoor train rides are also available in a number of themes and designs.
Indoor train rides represent an excellent return on investment. They have remained popular with families for generations – the simple fun, bright colors, and music supplied by the trains continue to attract both young and old – and there is no reason to think that they will not continue to do so for the foreseeable future.