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Got a little one who lights up at the sound of a train whistle? Or maybe you’re raising a full-fledged rail-fan? Southeastern Wisconsin is full of train-themed adventures for all ages – from electric trolley rides to mini railroads and even a trip on the Amtrak.
Here’s your go-to guide for train lovers in and around Milwaukee:
Ride-On Train Experiences
East Troy Electric Railroad
East Troy, WI
Step back in time on this historic electric railroad line! You can ride vintage railcars between East Troy and Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago from April through October. The depot also includes a small museum and gift shop. And, if you’re in the area, you can eat at the Union House in Genesee Depot. It offers historic train vibes and cozy small-town charm.
👉 East Troy Electric Railroad
Milwaukee Light Engineering Society (MLES)
Cedarburg, WI
This one’s a must for mini-engine fans! Ride 1/8 scale trains on a wooded outdoor track.
- Summer Rides are often free (donations welcome!)
- Halloween Trains run in October — spooky, kid-friendly fun.
- 👉 Milwaukee Light Engineering Society
Choo Choo Train at Southridge Mall
Greendale, WI
For a fun indoor train ride, check out the little Choo Choo Train at Southridge Mall! This trackless train weaves through the mall, offering a delightful experience for young children. It’s a convenient option during shopping trips or when the weather isn’t cooperating for outdoor activities.
Ride The Hop Streetcar
Downtown Milwaukee
It’s free to ride and a fun way to explore the city!
👉Don’t miss: 10 Kid-Friendly Stops Along the Hop
Train at the Milwaukee County Zoo
Milwaukee, WI
A classic! The Safari Train circles the zoo grounds and is a favorite for families.
🎟️ Get full details in our Family Guide to the Zoo
Ride the Amtrak
Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Hop on the Hiawatha Line for a quick ride to Chicago, or try the new route to Minneapolis for a longer train travel adventure.
Tip: Kids under 2 ride free, and kids 2–12 are half price with an adult ticket.
Riverside & Great Northern Railway
Wisconsin Dells
If you’re up for a day trip, this steam train ride is worth the drive. It’s located in a wooded setting and offers beautiful scenery and historic vibes.
👉 Riverside & Great Northern Railway
Train rides are always a hit, and they’re just one of many ideas in our guide to the top toddler activities in Milwaukee.
Train Museums & Clubs
The Midwest’s Largest G-Scale Train (Free!)
📍 Location: Shady Lane Greenhouse, W172 N7388 Shady Lane, Menomonee Falls, WI
Saturdays & Sundays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Tucked inside Shady Lane Greenhouse, this massive indoor G-scale model railroad is one of the largest in the Midwest — and it’s completely free to visit. What began as a small 6′ x 24′ Christmas display back in 1998 has grown into a sprawling 4,800-square-foot setup with 16 tracks and more than 2,000 feet of rail. You’ll see a stunning mix of passenger, freight, diesel, steam, and even cogwheel mountain trains weaving through intricate landscapes and villages. Families can sit among the tables and enjoy every detail as the trains glide by!
👉 Visit Shady Lane Greenhouse
All Aboard & Exploration Station at Discovery World
Discovery World is home to All Aboard, a captivating model railroad exhibit created in partnership with Walthers. This detailed replica of mid-20th-century Milwaukee includes local landmarks like the Everett Street Depot and Usinger’s Factory, offering a mesmerizing look at city life in miniature.
Right next door, the brand-new Exploration Station invites kids to dive hands-on into the worlds of transportation, technology, and creativity. With interactive activities, STEM storytime, and design-your-own vehicle crafts, it’s a perfect companion to the model train magic just across the hall.
Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club
New Berlin, WI
Model train lovers, this one’s for you! Visit open houses throughout the year to see elaborate indoor displays and chat with hobbyists of all ages.
👉 Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club
Model Railroad Club of Milwaukee
Walker’s Point, Milwaukee
Tucked beneath the tracks at 210 E. National Ave., the Model Railroad Club of Milwaukee is a hidden gem that has been home to one of the nation’s oldest model railroad clubs since 1936. Housed in a former Milwaukee Road passenger station, the club features an impressive O-scale layout with vintage trains, tiny towns, tunnels, and more. It’s typically open to the public on the last Sunday of each month from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., but call before you go.
Cudahy Train Depot
Cudahy, WI
The restored Cudahy Train Depot is open for special events and gives kids a glimpse of what train travel used to look like. Keep an eye out for community open houses and family days.
Walthers Showroom
5601 W Florist Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53218
Since 1932, Wm. K. Walthers Inc. has been a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s model railroading scene. Their showroom features new products, a working 8×20’ model layout, historical displays, and a team that’s happy to answer questions for beginners and enthusiasts alike. It’s a fun, low-key stop for families curious about the miniature world of trains — and it’s tucked away right here in the city.
Train-Themed Dining
Coffeeville Company at the Historic Brookfield Depot
Brookfield, WI
This isn’t your average coffee stop! Coffeeville is located inside a beautifully restored 1867 train depot, and it’s a must-visit for train lovers. The windows feature immersive digital scenes that transport you back to the golden age of rail travel, while the menu offers everything from artisan coffee and lattes to smoothies and baked goods.
👉 Coffeeville Brookfield Website
La Estación – Waukesha
Step into a historic train depot turned vibrant Mexican restaurant! At La Estación, you can dine inside a vintage railcar, enjoy colorful Mexican decor, and dig into classic dishes and signature margaritas. There’s even a blooming patio in warmer months for outdoor dining. Kids will love the train theme, and parents will appreciate the flavorful menu and welcoming vibe.
📍 319 Williams St, Waukesha, WI
🕒 About 35 minutes from Milwaukee
Seasonal Train Events
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
Various Milwaukee-area Stops | December
Every holiday season, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train rolls into town decked out in twinkling lights, bringing live music and festive cheer. It stops at multiple locations in the Milwaukee area, and admission is free with a suggested donation of non-perishable food.
Annual Train Show at the Domes
Every winter, the Show Dome at Mitchell Park Domes transforms into a magical miniature world where over 600 feet of track winds through lush plant displays and charming toy-town vignettes.
Bonus Tip: Search “Train” on Our Event Calendar
Seasonal events and pop-up train rides happen all year long!
👉 Search the Calendar
You Might Also Be Interested In…
If your little one is into all things that go, make sure to check out our guide to airplane spotting at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. It’s a simple, free outing where you can watch planes take off and land – perfect for transportation-loving kids.
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.
