Riding the Rocky Brook Rocket: a Look Inside Opelika's Iconic 1955 Antique Kiddie Train
Unlike modern commercial amusement parks where entry fees stretch family budgets, Opelika Parks and Recreation operates the miniature train as a subsidized public service. The fare remains $1 per ticket, preserving open accessibility for neighborhood children and visitors alike.
The operating schedule balances regular weekend operations during warm months with scheduled maintenance windows to protect the aging hardware. During spring and summer, the train runs set weekend afternoon hours, weather permitting. Heavy rains or creek swelling along Rocky Brook prompt immediate safety pauses to inspect track stability along the trestles.
| Operational Period | Standard Schedule | Ticket Fare | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Season (April, May) | Saturdays & Sundays (1:00 PM, 4:00 PM) | $1.00 | Seasonal reopening, weekend leisure |
| Summer Season (June, July) | Extended weekend runs & select weekday events | $1.00 | Summer break family visits, community camps |
| Autumn Run (August, October) | Weekend afternoons (weather permitting) | $1.00 | Fall foliage rides, birthday gatherings |
| Holiday Special (December) | Annual multi-day evening festival | $1.00 | Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express |