The Bunny Eggspress
We invite you to hop on the train March 29th or 30th for The Bunny Eggspress, an event for all ages held in partnership with the Monticello Area Chamber of Commerce. Departure times are at 10 AM, 12 PM, and 2 PM from the Wabash Depot in Monticello, Illinois. Enjoy a train ride to our egg hunt location (Egg Hunt is weather permitting), a visit with the Easter Bunny, and receive a treat bag for each child as well as a commemorative item for each rider. There are children's games and activities for the entire family to enjoy, as well as snacks, soft drinks, and the perfect Easter gift available at the museum’s gift shop. There are three classes of service for this event, coach class, first-class, and the private car experience.
Coach Class is seated in our historic railroad passenger cars and features comfortable seats with scenic views out large windows. Guests will receive a treat bag and will visit with the Easter Bunny! Tickets are $20 per person.
We are excited to offer a First-Class Experience on each train run! This experience includes one table that seats four on the dining car, a large treat bag for the table, an opportunity to take a picture with the Easter Bunny and activities to enjoy on the train during the ride. The First-Class Experience is $150 per table that seats four people.
Would you like a Private Car Experience and ride the rails like a railroad baron? You can enjoy an exclusive experience aboard Illinois Central Business Car #7! This car seats 12 guests in the lounge area with a fantastic view out the end of the train. In addition, there will be fun activities to enjoy during the ride, two large treat bags for you and your guests to enjoy, a small gift for each child in your group and a commemorative item for each guest. Tickets for the Private Car Experience are $750.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who needs a ticket?
Anyone 2 and older will need a ticket. Those under 2 are required to sit on a lap. It is not easy to hold a 2 yr. old on your lap in the dining car, we encourage people to consider that when purchasing tickets.
Where are my tickets?
Your tickets will be ready for pickup at the Wabash depot in downtown Monticello (corner of Livingston and Independence) beginning at 9 AM the day of your train. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time to ensure time to pick up tickets and board the train.
How long is the train ride?
The event is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes which includes an Egg Hunt off the train. The Egg Hunt will take place in a grass field so please dress appropriately. The Egg Hunt will take place weather permitting.
Is the train handicap accessible?
Yes, the train is handicap accessible. However, the Egg Hunt area is in a grass field and may not be accessible. Please email tickets@mrym.org to request handicap accommodations.
Will my child get to meet the Easter Bunny personally?
The Easter Bunny will visit with them on the train ride.
Are there restrooms nearby?
There are restrooms available at the Wabash Depot and in the Wabash Center before and after the ride and also at the egg hunt location in the middle of the event. Unfortunately, there are no restrooms on board our historic train cars during the train ride.
Will there be other things to do at the train station?
Yes! At the Wabash Center, located across the parking lot from the Wabash Depot, you will find children's games and activities, snacks and soft drinks available for purchase, and the museum’s gift shop.