My boys were huge railroad lovers when they were younger, and still even as they grow, they still enjoy the magic of the trains. There’s just something about watching a train as it rumbles down the tracks. The massive size of the engine as they roll, chug, and puff along is so exciting for children to watch.
We’ve compiled this list of destinations and events across Chicagoland (and beyond) that celebrate all things related to railroads for kids who love trains. Some make for a fun local outing, while others require a bit of a planning or even a weekend road trip. There are so many fun ways to see trains big and small. Train-loving kids and adults are sure to love these spots.
Train Rides
Model Trains
A Playground with a Hand-Pedaled Train
Playgrounds with Train Play Structures
Other Ideas for Train-Filled Fun
We’ve got even more ideas for kids who love trains to get their locomotive fill below!
Train Restaurants
Get your food delivered in a train car while you enjoy your train-themed surroundings at these Train Restaurants.
Kid-Friendly Stops Along Local Metra Lines
Hop on the Metra! What’s more exciting than actually being on the train? We’ve rounded up Kid-Friendly Stops Along the BNSF and Kid-Friendly Stops Along the Union Pacific West, and Kid-Friendly Stops Along the Union Pacific Northwest Metra Line for all your planning needs. Kids 6 and younger ride free; remember to download the Ventra app and buy your tickets ahead of time to make travel a snap!
Polar Express Rides
Polar Express Rides are offered in December, but registration starts early. Our Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides list has all the details for last years rides.
Local Libraries with Train Tables
Many local libraries have train tables in their children’s sections, including the Downers Grove Public Library, Elmhurst Public Library, Geneva Public Library, Glen Ellyn Public Library, and Wauconda Area Public Library.
Visit a Train Caboose
Cosley Zoo in Wheaton has a real railroad caboose has been converted into a play space for young kids with hands-on activities like puzzles and a matching game. Gretna Station & Caboose at Armstrong Park in Carol Stream, one of their largest parks, has a caboose on its property. Due to flooding, the museum inside closed, but kids still enjoy seeing this real train car. Naperville Safety Town has a train within its village. Check out the full sized train car during one of their Open Bike Events. Located at Itasca Historical Depot Museum, the 1939 Milwaukee Road Rib-side Caboose is close to Springbrook Nature Center in Itasca, the library and water park so you can definitely make a day trip out of visiting. There is a train display inside to check out.
Craft a Train for your Train Lover
Make a train from cardboard boxes at home with Annie’s instructions.
Does your neighborhood playground have a train that we’ve missed? Let us know! You can email annie@mykidlist.com or tag us on social media at @kidlist.
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Downtown Downer’s Grove also has a very nice toy store at the corner of Main and Curtis, less than 2 blocks from the train station.