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Each winter, the Mitchell Park Domes Train Show transforms the Show Dome into a miniature railway experience — and it’s consistently the largest Show Dome exhibit of the year.
With hundreds of feet of track winding through lush gardens and detailed landscapes, this annual train show is a favorite winter outing for families, especially those with train-loving kids. It’s also one of the most popular winter activities for families in Milwaukee, making it a great reason to visit the Domes during the colder months.
Dates & Theme
Dates: TBD for 2026
Theme: TBD for 2026
Each year, the Domes Train Show features a new theme that influences the train layouts, miniature scenes, and plantings throughout the Show Dome. Past themes have drawn inspiration from history and classic eras of rail travel — including last year’s Victorian-era train show — so returning visitors can expect something new each season.
What to Expect at the Train Show
During the annual Train Show, the Show Dome is filled with garden-scale trains looping through carefully designed vignette landscapes. Families can expect:
- Hundreds of feet of train track weaving through plants, bridges, and buildings
- Detailed miniature scenes inspired by the year’s theme
- Seasonal blooms and greenery creating a colorful backdrop
- Plenty of up-close views that keep kids engaged
The blend of horticulture, creativity, and motion makes this exhibit engaging for all ages, from toddlers to adults.
Special Events During the Train Show
(Included with regular admission; varies by year)
In addition to the main exhibit, the Train Show season often includes special events such as:
- All-Scale Train Show Weekend featuring model train layouts in multiple scales
- Bonsai or specialty plant exhibits that complement the train display
- Theme-based maker or costume events tied to the year’s concept
- Free Sticker Wednesdays with limited-edition exhibit-themed stickers
Event offerings may change from year to year, so it’s best to check the Domes’ website for current details.
Hours at Mitchell Park Domes
Monday–Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday & Major Holidays: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Last admission is one hour before closing.
Admission Information
Admission includes access to all three Domes.
Milwaukee County Residents
- Adults: $8
- Juniors (3–12), Seniors (60+), Students, Military: $6
- Children 2 & under: Free
Non-Residents
- Adults & Seniors: $9
- Juniors (3–12), Students, Military: $6
- Children 2 & under: Free
💡 Discounted admission for all visitors is typically offered on the last Thursday of each month as part of Milwaukee County discount days.
Planning Tips for Families
- Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than weekends
- Younger kids often want extra time to watch the trains loop
- Strollers are allowed, but the Show Dome can feel busy during peak times
- Plan to explore all three Domes to round out your visit
For more insider tips and what families notice most, see our guide to visiting the Domes with kids.
More for Train Lovers
The Train Show isn’t the only railway-themed experience in Milwaukee. Families can also explore model railroads, train clubs, and other locomotive attractions featured in our train lover’s guide to Milwaukee.
Since this show runs during winter, it also pairs well with other winter fun ideas for kids around Milwaukee when outdoor options are limited.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
