2.5-Hour Train Excursion to Wheeler From Rockaway Beach

Very plesant experience. A little pricy for what it is (+$60 after fees per person for 1 train ride), but worth every penny. I did the moonrise excursion, and it was absolutely beautiful. Not super crowded, even on the weekend. The staff were very friendly and welcoming. The complimentary sweet treat and live music was appreciated. I also loved that I could bring my small dogs on the train (check the website or with staff first before bringing dogs! Could vary depending on seasons and only allowed on open air carts). We saw lots of amazing wildlife; deer, Common murre, pretty sure we saw some cormorant, and a tall long necked bird (a crane?), amongst other wildlife. The site says to come at least 30 min early to get preferred seating, but I do recommend to other folk to come earlier. We arrived 45 min early, and there was already a line of 25+ people ready to board. We did not end up getting one of our preferred seats (coastal side on the open air cart). Next time we will come even earlier than 45 min before boarding. The train was also very noisy, clanky, and occasionally screechy; something I was not expecting. nevertheless, i still very much enjoyed my time.