Tweetsie Railroad theme park in Western NC to be closed longer than expected after Helene
While much of Western North Carolina continues to pick up the pieces from the damage left behind from Hurricane Helene, one of the state’s most popular attractions will be shut down for the rest of the season.
Two weeks after the storm swept through as a tropical storm, the team behind Tweetsie Railroad, North Carolina’s first amusement park, announced it will remain closed through the fall for “staff and the surrounding area to prioritize rebuilding and restoring what was lost.”
“This storm has touched the lives of so many in ways we never anticipated,” Chris Robbins, President of Tweetsie Railroad, said in a statement. “Many of our team members and local families are facing tremendous challenges, and we want to ensure they have the time and resources they need to get back on their feet. Their safety and well-being are our top priority.”
Before announcing its fall closure, a spokesperson for the Wild West theme park confirmed to The News & Observer that the park incurred some damage during the storm and flooding.
But the park team plans to reopen for the holiday season at the end of November.
“Our hearts are with everyone affected by this disaster, and we remain committed to standing alongside our neighbors throughout this difficult period,” Robbins said. “We look forward to welcoming everyone back when we reopen for Tweetsie Christmas on November 29, bringing the holiday spirit to life and sharing some much-needed cheer with our guests and staff.”
Tweetsie’s Helene relief fund
While Tweetsie Railroad remains closed, you can support relief efforts in the area through the #TweetsieMatchingChallenge. After making an initial $10,000 donation to Samaritan’s Purse, the park’s team has made a pledge to match and even triple additional contributions.
“Although Tweetsie Railroad is known for being a place for family fun and beloved fall traditions, the immediate need is to focus on recovery and resilience, the release announcing the closure says.
”We encourage those who want to help from a distance to consider purchasing gift cards or certificates from local shops, restaurants and other businesses that rely heavily on seasonal tourism. Any small gesture of kindness can help these businesses recoup some of the revenue lost during what is typically a busy time.”
You can find more information and updates on Tweetsie Railroad’s closure and refunds for those who previously purchased tickets online at tweetsie.com.
This story was originally published October 11, 2024 at 11:55 AM with the headline "Tweetsie Railroad theme park in Western NC to be closed longer than expected after Helene."
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