Spotlight on Brazos River Train Rides & Petting Zoo
Giggles and shrieks of joy can be heard around the block as the Brazos River Train Rides’ trackless train glides down the street during a celebratory event. As the train makes its way down the road, other children are enjoying the company of small barnyard animals at the petting zoo the company has set up for the celebration.
“I originally started the company because I wanted to do something that my kids would enjoy,” said Brazos River Train Rides’ owner, Daniel Martinez. “I love kids and I really want them to have fun.”
Martinez has given hundreds of train rides over the past few years and has not only brought joy to children who love animals but has also taught his tiny clients about life on the farm.
“Some children don’t even know where an egg comes from. The petting zoo allows them to connect with the animals and learn a little bit about them,” the father of four said. “It happens pretty often where a chicken lays an egg in the petting zoo. The kids get so excited.”
The petting zoo and train rides can be rented separately or as a packaged deal. And there’s no event too big or too small for this company.
They’ve done everything from small birthday parties in a cul-de-sac to big city events like Waco Wonderland that hosts thousands of patrons each night.
“We can even set up outside of your dental or medical clinic
or in your school parking lot,” Martinez said. “It’s like giving kids a field trip without going anywhere.”
Even though his clients don’t have to travel to see his trackless train and petting zoo, Martinez, along with the help of his wife and four children, can come set up their attractions as far north as DFW or as far south as Austin.
“We do charge a mileage fee if we have to travel outside of the Waco area, but it is a nominal cost,” he said. “It’s basically to cover our fueling costs to get there.”
The train can hold up to 27 kids at a time and the 12 x 12 petting zoo includes chickens, rabbits, ducks, mini goats and even guinea pigs.
While Brazos River Train Rides & Petting Zoo can travel far and wide, their schedule isn’t as flexible. Martinez suggests contacting the company at least three to four months before your event to ensure that you get the date you want.
For more information about this company, visit www.brazosrivertrainrides.com or call
(254) 349-1652.
Photos by Casey Nystrom Photography
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About the Author
Jessa is the Editor-in-Chief of Hooray for Family and the mom of three energetic children. She has a BA in Mass Communication/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is a long-time resident of Central Texas. When she isn't writing and editing, she enjoys playing board games with her kids, teaching Sunday school and channeling her creativity into craft projects.
