News : Waterloo train tour to make stop in Vinton, June 8

A train ride from Waterloo to Vinton is the first of what Vinton Unlimited Director Nathan Hesson hopes to be a series of efforts between the Waterloo and Vinton communities.

The Saturday, June 8, ride costs $59 per ticket, which includes a round trip ride from the Iowa Northern Railroad yard in Waterloo to Vinton. There will also be a tour of the Iowa Northern Railroad facilities in Waterloo.

Lunch will be served in downtown Vinton.

Participants will park at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 4000 Hudson Road, in Cedar Falls. They must arrive by 7:15 a.m. and the bus will depart at 7:30 a.m. to the train. Return time is about 3:30 p.m.

There are no restrooms on the train. All riders must wear closed toe shoes, and no pets will be allowed.

Tickets can be purchased at the Cedar Falls Tourism and Visitor Bureau and the Vinton Farmers Savings Bank and Trust.

"They’ll be arriving in Vinton around 11:30 a.m. and go to the Courthouse square for lunch provided by the Benton County Pork Producers," said Hesson. "Benton County Transportation will provide transportation from the depot to the courthouse for those who cannot walk that far. They will have about two hours to shop and have lunch before getting back on the train and leaving around 2 p.m. to go back to the Cedar Falls/Waterloo area. This trip was coordinated by the Cedar Falls Chamber of Commerce & Vinton Unlimited has helped as requested. Hopefully it will be the start of a great relationship between our Chambers and we look forward to working with them on future projects as well."