Ride in style to Canalside this summer with Thomas & Friends trains

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) – Just in time for summer, there’s a fun new way for families to visit Canalside.

The NFTA and Explore & More Children’s Museum have unveiled new “Thomas and Friends”-themed trains that will take families to and from the NFTA’s new Canalside station.

“This is a very exciting day,” said Kim Minkel, executive director of the NFTA. “We are revealing that we will be packing six of our train cars with Thomas the Train and his friends.”

The new “Thomas & Friends”-themed trains were designed with Fisher-Price and Mattel to bring the magic of the famous children’s character to life.

“I think they’re inviting and fun,” Minkel said. “We want to encourage families and children in particular to get on the train and come to downtown Buffalo.”

“It’s just a fun way for families to come to Canalside,” said Michelle Urbanczyk, president and CEO of Explore and More. “I think trains speak universally to everyone. They’re fun and it’s fun to see.”

Through the end of the year, families can ride the Thomas & Friends trains from Fountain Plaza to Canalside for free. Longer trips will only cost a few dollars for adults. Children are always free.

The partnership with Fisher-Price and Mattel also extends to the Explore and More children’s museum. Three new train tables, including several “Thomas & Friends” trains, have been donated to Canalside Staple.

“On the third floor we have three different train tables that kids can create,” Urbanczyk said. “Whether they’re plastic or wood, we have all varieties, and in a few weeks we’ll have a train hanging on the third floor. Who doesn’t love watching a train?”