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Trade your typical Thursday night for a one-of-a-kind experience that blends motion, creativity, and a little refreshment, all thanks to Nickel Plate Express (NPX) and Kiln Creations.
Start with a scenic, short railbike ride from Forest Park into downtown Noblesville. Once you arrive, you’ll have time to grab your favorite drink from any participating DORA vendor – beer, wine, cocktail, or mocktail – and take it with you as you stroll over to Kiln Creations, 60 N. 9th St.
There, you’ll paint your own 24-ounce stoneware mug, custom stamped with the Nickel Plate Railbike logo, perfect for cozy fall mornings or your next coffee break. You’ll also find a selection of snacks to enjoy while you paint, so you can relax, sip, and get creative.
Mugs will be fired and ready for pickup seven to 10 days later, or you can pay at Kiln Creations to have your mug shipped to you.
Get your tickets now at nickelplateexpress.com/pedal-and-paint.
What is included
- A round-trip railbike ride
- A 24-ounce branded stoneware mug to paint ($42 value)
- Light snacks and refreshments
Please note that this ride has a different cancellation policy from NPX’s other railbike tours due to supplies. There are no refunds or exchanges for this ride.
What is a railbike?
NPX uses U.S.A.-built, high-quality railbikes from Rail Gliders located in Pennsylvania. These family-friendly, pedal-powered bikes are specially designed to sit on the rails of the tracks. Each bike seats up to four passengers. Railbikes offer the perfect activity for guests of all ages and allow passengers the opportunity to see the rail line from an entire new perspective.
Who can ride railbikes?
NPX’s railbikes are versatile and easy to ride for people of all ages and abilities. Intended to welcome everyone from small children to adults up to 6-foot-4, the Rail Glider’s seats are infinitely adjustable, even while sitting in them.
Can children ride the railbikes?
Yes! The railbikes are friendly for all ages. Children under 3 may ride free if they are strapped to an adult in an infant carrier. The carrier must be supplied by the customer.
How do the tours work?
All tours commence with the entire group departing alongside the tour guide. Participants disperse along the trail, maintaining a distance of up to 500 feet between individuals ahead and behind. This arrangement affords each group the opportunity to relish the open-air environment and the enchantment of the railroad at their preferred speed and in their individual space.
Who else will be on the tracks?
The railbikes will have total occupancy of the rail line during tours. No other tour will operate at the same time and the train will not be running. NPX staff coordinates daily to ensure a track bulletin is released and all parties are aware of the schedule for both railbikes and the train operations.
What is your weather policy?
Railbikes operate in various weather conditions, including rain or shine, as long as safety is ensured. NPX diligently assesses the radar before each tour, and in the event of anticipated continuous downpour or adverse weather conditions, departure may be canceled or delayed until conditions improve. Due to the unpredictable nature of thunderstorms, a decision to cancel a tour for this reason is typically made approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Should the tour be canceled for weather related issues, you will be offered a full refund.
Customers who cancel due to weather are subject to NPX’s cancellation policy. Please be mindful when booking that railbikes are an outdoor activity and you will be exposed to the elements including light rain, wind, heat, and cool temperatures.
Do I have to book ahead of time or can I just show up?
Booking ahead is strongly recommended. Space is limited and walk-in tickets are not guaranteed.
Are tickets per person?
Tickets can be purchased per person or per quad bike. There is a slight discount when purchasing the entire bike. If purchasing fewer seats than a full bike, you may be sat with new friends.
How do I get back to where I parked?
Your experience is round-trip and will take you back to your starting point.
How long does it take?
Each trip is unique. Please refer to NPX’s rides for length.
What should I wear?
Kindly review the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Since tours take place outdoors and the railbikes are exposed to the elements, riders should opt for comfortable and loose-fitting attire suitable for hiking or cycling. It is advisable to wear closed-toed shoes for your convenience and safety.
What should I bring? Is there a place to put a bag or backpack?
Passengers should bring bottled water. Each bike is equipped with a small basket for bags and other items. Larger items should be stored in your vehicle. Passengers are welcome to bring small coolers, bottled water, and snacks.