Shantytown recreates a 19th-century West Coast pioneer town. Every ticket includes a ride on one of its heritage passenger trains, the theatre shows, and the sluice gun demonstration when it is running. The train runs to a fixed timetable, so build the rest of the visit around a departure. Short rainforest walks lead off the village.
The trade-off is that the most hands-on part costs more: gold panning, like the old-time photos, is an optional extra on top of the entry ticket. King Dick’s cafe is on site, and payment is easy because cash, cards and the main phone wallets are all accepted.
Bad weather doesn’t stop anything. The attractions run rain or shine, and the park itself suggests a wet, wild day for the full pioneer experience. Pets are not allowed in the main township, though service dogs are welcome.