Hidden Gem: The Wabash, Frisco, & Pacific Mini Railroad in Glencoe, MO

The Wabash Mini Railroad's summer Sunday schedule is officially underway!

What is the Wabash?  Check it out...

The Wabash, Frisco, and Pacific Mini Railroad is a true word-of-mouth hidden gem to most locals.  My parents took me to the Wabash when I was a little and now I take MY children.

Nestled on the western edge of West County (on the border of Wildwood in Glencoe, Missouri) , The Wabash offers one of the most unique experiences in town. Hop aboard a 12 inch gauge live steam train and travel a two mile, round trip, 30 minute route along the scenic Meramec River. Operated by an all volunteer staff, the operation was organized in 1939 and has been operating at the Glencoe site since 1961.

If you are a St. Louisan, you MUST ride the Wabash at least ONE time in your life.  Period.

Though obviously one of the top family attractions in the St. Louis area, it is a unique Sunday activity for children of all ages. Even though my boys have long outgrown their deeply-rooted train obsession, we still go to the Wabash at least one time per summer. It is a gorgeous, gorgeous ride and an experience you can get nowhere else.

Don't wait for the kids and just go! I promise... you will enjoy it!  The perfect "Sunday Funday" adventure.

Nitty Gritty:

The Railroad is open every Sunday, May through October. Trains start their scheduled departures from the station at 11am, departing about every 20 minutes. The final train leaves at 4:15pm.

Tickets are $4.00. Children under 3 and Military Families (with military id) ride free.

WEB: http://www.wfprr.com/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/wfprr
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/#!/wfprr

HINT:  Want to make it the perfect day?  After Memorial Day Weekend, hit Barney's for lunch afterwards.  It is only 10 minutes from the Wabash...

Hidden Gem Alert: Barney's

I have been meaning to write a blog entry all summer about one of my favorite local gems. A visit last weekend served as inspiration, and luckily you still have a few more weeks to enjoy their amazing food until they close for the summer...

Over 14 years ago (and fresh out of college), I held a beginning Social Work job in Ellisville. One Saturday afternoon, a coworker brought in Barney's BBQ, and I have been hooked ever since. 14 years later, it remains a Nenonen Family summer staple.

Celebrating their 48th summer of serving BBQ out of the teeny tiny wooden shack they have called home since 1963, family-owned Barney's Bar-b-q is a West County staple. Those who know Barney's... love Barney's- returning every summer and sharing the secret with their friends. Period.

It is not just about the food at Barney's... it is about the experience. Only open May-September, and only on the weekends, Barney's is a close to the family backyard barbecue experience as you will get in the St. Louis area...



The magic starts in the "Ole' Hickory Room" where they have perfected the process of making their own charcoal, which they hand carry to the open pit with a shovel...
A step back in time with cool antiques and a dirt floor, the Hickory Room just reeks cool.
Note: as a customer you are allowed to explore the Hickory Room. In fact, the family is so incredibly friendly... they are happy to give you a tour of the process. During this particular trip, one of the relatives grabbed my 8 year old and pulled him into the kitchen to show him how it is done. Needless to say, he loved it and I truly appreciated their kindness!




The end result?

Delicious, though we always share a plate as it is WAY too much food for 1 person..

Warning: leave your diet at home, but if you appreciate barbecue done the old-fashioned way... Barney's is the perfect summer retreat!

NITTY GRITTY:

Barney's Bar-b-que
16011 Manchester Road,
Ellisville, Missouri 63011
636-227-2300

Located 1/4 mile west of Clarkson and Manchester in Ellisville, Missouri

May- September
11 - 8pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday only

CASH OR CHECK ONLY!

Peek at their menu HERE.
Find them on Facebook HERE.
Their blog is HERE.
Their Twitter handle is @barneysbbq