Nostalgia Rides: Recapture the Magic of Yesteryear with This Must-Try Attraction
Remember the thrill of your first rollercoaster ride, the joy of a perfectly executed pedal on a shiny new bike, or the calming chug of a steam train? We all have fond memories tied to transportation and toys. A 2021 University of Otago study found that reminiscing about positive childhood experiences can boost your mood! So, if you're looking for a way to bring back that spark of joy and revisit those simpler times, then look no further than National Transport and Toy Museum's nostalgia rides!
Our museum in Wanaka offers a chance to step back in time and experience the wonder of bygone eras. Whether you're a seasoned history buff or simply someone who appreciates a good dose of sentimental charm, there's a nostalgia ride out there waiting for you.
A Whimsical Journey Through Nostalgia Rides
Step inside the National Transport and Toy Museum and prepare to be swept away to a wonderland of yesteryear. Here, you'll find a charming and nostalgic collection of operational, coin-operated rides—just like the ones you might remember from your childhood.
10+ Kiddy Coin Operated Rides
Relive the fun of being a kid at the National Transport and Toy Museum! Inside our Toy Shop, you'll find over 10 awesome operational kiddy rides that work with just a coin. These are the same rides you might remember from your childhood, all fixed up and ready to make new memories for kids today.
Picture spinning around on colourful teacups or soaring through the air on a cool airplane ride. These rides are more than just fun—they help little kids learn about cause and effect as they make the rides go themselves. Great for everyone, these classic rides are a perfect way to make memories that last, whether you're remembering your own younger days or sharing the fun with your kids. Plus, your museum ticket lets you ride on even more fun rides throughout the museum, making the National Transport and Toy Museum a blast for the whole family!
Pedal Cars for All Ages
The fun doesn't stop with the kiddy coin-operated rides! The National Transport and Toy Museum boasts a fantastic selection of pedal cars, perfect for a memorable experience through history. The best part? These rides are included with your regular museum ticket, so you can zoom around to your heart's content.
Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a charming pedal car, just like the ones you might have seen in old movies. These classic vehicles are a delightful way to explore the museum at your own pace, all while getting a little exercise. No need to wait in lines or worry about tokens—just hop on and go! The museum offers pedal cars in both adult and children's sizes, ensuring there's a perfect fit for everyone. So, whether you're a little kid or a grown-up kid at heart, you can hop on a pedal car and relive the simple joy of cruising around. Also, It's a fantastic way to bond with your family and create lasting memories together.
Vintage Trains and Vehicles to Bring You Back in Time
The National Transport and Toy Museum isn't just about nostalgic rides for little ones! Venture beyond the museum and discover a treasure trove of vintage vehicles that will truly transport you back in time. Here are some of our collections you can see:
Vintage Built Toy Train Collection in National Transport and Toy Museum
David A. Auld Steam Train: Immerse yourself in the golden age of steam travel with this impressive locomotive. Imagine the sights and sounds of a bygone era as you stand beside this testament to human ingenuity.
Fowler Locomotive Steam Train: Marvel at the engineering prowess of another historic steam engine.
Kingston Flyer Steam Train: For a touch of local flavor, explore this iconic New Zealand locomotive that played a vital role in the country's development.
Vintage Cars Collection in National Transport and Toy Museum
Ford Model T Open Cab Pickup (1921): Cruise down memory lane with this symbol of early automotive innovation and witness the beginnings of the car culture.
MCLaughlin Buick Limousine (1924): Feel the elegance of a bygone era with this luxurious automobile and imagine yourself chauffeured around town in style.
Austin 12/4 (1928): Admire the sleek lines of this classic car and see how car design evolved throughout the decades.
These are just a little glimpse of the vintage vehicles you can see inside the National Transport and Toy Museum, we have a lot to discover! With one of the largest private collection of its type in the world, our Museum has Five major buildings housing over 600 vehicles, 23 aircraft, 100,000+ toys, and miscellaneous items you can explore!
More Than Just Rides: A Journey Through Time
The National Transport and Toy Museum's Nostalgia Rides are more than just a fun activity—they're also a portal to a simpler time. Every turn unveils a treasure trove of memories, sparking conversations about childhood experiences and learning about the evolution of transportation.
So, next time you're in Wanaka, don't miss the chance to experience the magic of the National Transport and Toy Museum. Step back in time, reconnect with your inner child, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your ticket now and plan your exciting visit with us!