Choo Choo Bob’s store manager Biel Wiel (pronounced “wheel” and yes that’s his real name) starts his workday revving up a model train and filling a bouncy house with air. He then suits up in overalls and a train conductor hat, ready to usher kids onward into the store’s interactive playspace.
Located in St. Paul’s Union Depot at 214 4th St. East, Choo Choo Bob’s is a well-known and long-running Twin Cities model train store. But in 2019, it was bought by owner Jenny Moberg who evolved it into what it is today, Wiel said. “We still sell trains and toys, but now we also sell an experience.”
The store’s pay-to-play playspace and event space includes a bouncy house, an engine full of toys, multiple interactive train tables, and even a bubble machine. The bright and welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for a birthday party, event or casual hangout on a hot day.
A former desk job worker, Wiel said he now looks forward to coming into work each day.
“My favorite part is the constant sound of joy and play,” Wiel said. “Instead of staring at a laptop all day, I’m surrounded by kids laughing and the bubble machine going. I’ve heard kids yell ‘bubbles’ more times than I can count.”
If you’re looking for a particularly special time to stop in, every Monday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. Engineer Paul comes by to play music and read stories. Parents may recognize Paul from “The Choo Choo Bob Show.” A bonus: hosted by the store about a decade ago, the show is still streamable on YouTube. So if your kids love story time, you can continue the fun at home.
Regular admission into the playspace is $10 per child ages 1 to 10, $2 for adults, and free for children under 1. They also offer a buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) deal for twins. As a twin myself, I thought that was pretty cool. Story time is included in the admission price. Event pricing and booking details can be found on Choo Choo Bob’s website.
