Take a $2 Ride on the Irvine Park Railroad

Oh, 1996.

It holds such a firm nostalgic sway over many of us, the people who recall the era's attitude-flavored pop, the super-chunky boots, and all of those amazing sweater vests. (Please come back, sweater vests.)

You may also remember 1996-style prices, and what you paid when you visited your favorite attractions, 23 years ago.

It so happens that one of those popular Southern California destinations, a family favorite that's located in Orange, can trace its roots to nifty 1996.

It's the Irvine Park Railroad, located at Irvine Regional Park, of course. And while the toot-toot-ful destination is known for its autumn pumpkin patch, and its Santa-riffic Christmas train, too, things really heat up in the heart of wintertime.

And by "heat up" we mean cool down, in the price department.

Why does this happen in winter? Because the adorable railroad pauses each year to celebrate its anniversary, over one special February weekend.

And by "pauses" we don't actually mean the picturesque train will stop; rather, it'll be chugging along, on both Feb. 23 and 24, which just happens to be the railroad's super-special anniversary weekend.

And by "super-special" we mean this: It'll cost $2 per ticket, the 1996 price, and getting into the railroad area is free.

Keep in mind that some activities require two tickets, but train rides only require one. So yep: Train rides are two bucks each.

Also keep in mind that there's a fee to park at Irvine Regional Park. 

And do also keep in mind that while you don't have to wear your 1996 fashions, the ones at the back of the closet, you know, deep down, you probably will. 

But did you ever stop? Who would? It was a memorable year for lots of people, a year that revisits us, and our wallets, every time that Orange-based gem, the Irvine Park Railroad, celebrates an anniversary.