Menominee Park Zoo opens season in Oshkosh, debuts new trackless train for visitors

The day also marked the first time the public could try the zoo’s new trackless train.

The park’s original train was set to be discontinued in 2025.

After a GoFundMe was set up to keep the train running, the city granted funds for it run one last summer.

A ribbon cutting was held Saturday morning at the “train depot” just outside the zoo entrance.

Saturday’s celebration included face painting, mascot visits, a food truck, and the unveiling of a new conductor’s hut.

Oshkosh Parks, Services and Events Manager Chad Dallman said it’s exciting to begin a new generation of fun at the park.

“It’s a breath of fresh air to see the smiles on people’s faces no matter what we do in our services here. The end result is to let people have fun and enjoy the experience and the recreational background and we’re pleased to be a part of that and hopefully bring that to people here,” Dallman said.

The train will operate Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. Tickets are $3 per rider and can be bought on site. The train will run through Labor Day.

The Oshkosh Common Council gave the go-ahead for the project in January. The trackless train cost around $100,000