@pixelated_periwinkle: There was a time when Wanamaker’s in Philadelphia had an actual monorail running through its toy department. And somehow, that wasn't even the craziest part of Christmas shopping there. The store was absolutely enormous, the Christmas decorations were everywhere, and the eighth floor was pretty much heaven for any kid who loved toys. Starting in 1946, the little red Rocket Express carried children high above the toy department, giving them a look at all the trains, dolls, games, and other things they were hoping to find under the tree. Imagine trying to get your kids out of that place without spending a fortune. Good luck. Between the monorail, the toys, and everything else going on, a trip to Wanamaker’s could easily turn into an all-day adventure. And Christmas at Wanamaker’s was a pretty big deal even without the train. Families would head downtown, admire the window displays, meet at the famous eagle, and watch the Christmas Light Show. People still talk about those trips decades later, which says a lot about what that store meant to Philadelphia. The monorail made its final run in 1984, but the memories stuck around. I think what people miss most isn't necessarily the shopping itself. It's the whole experience of going downtown at Christmas, being surrounded by family, and getting excited over things as simple as a toy department and a little red train. These days, we're lucky if a trip to the store doesn't involve a self-checkout machine asking for assistance. #wanamakersmonorail #christmaswanamaker #centercity #mayorcantspell

pixelated_periwinkle

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Monday 09 November 2026 02:25:16 GMT