Track Stars: 38 Train Sets That Take Kids on Incredible Journeys of Imagination (2025)

Many kids go through a train phase, whether inspired by Thomas & Friends or real trains. They're classic toys for a reason: They offer hours of fun, suit various ages, and are built to last. From creating tracks to arranging townscapes, the best train sets also help kids develop fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities.

According to certified play therapist Nicole Clelland, playing with trains fosters creativity, future planning, and emotional regulation. “Children learn to connect tracks and think about their options before deciding,” she says. Research also shows toy trains encourage cooperative play through their structured, familiar design.

To create this list, we asked a play therapist and a train engineer for expert advice on choosing the best train sets. After researching the top options, we selected train sets for kids based on quality, durability, engagement, features, and value.

Our Favorite Train Sets for Kids

• Play 22 Wooden Train Set
• Lego Duplo My First Number Train Toy With Bricks for Learning Numbers
• Temi Train Set for Kids
• Lego Disney 100 Celebration Train Building Toy
• Thomas & Friends Multi-Level Toy Track Set

What Is the Best Age for a Train Set?

In general, 3 years old is a good age to buy a child their own train set. While some sets are safe for children as young as 1, most train sets contain small pieces, which can be choking hazards for young children. After age 2, children begin to explore with their hands instead of their mouths, and by age 4, most have completely given up the habit of putting toys in their mouths. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age before introducing a train set.

Wooden Train Sets

Wooden train sets like the Orbrium Deluxe Wooden Train Set and the KidKraft Ride Around Town Set offer a fun and imaginative play experience for kids. As your child builds tracks and guides their trains, they will also develop fine motor coordination and spatial awareness. In addition, these sets encourage cooperative play–making them great for enhancing social skills and teamwork.

Train Sets for Toddlers and Preschoolers

If you’re looking to boost early developmental skills, such as hand-eye coordination and fine motor control, these train sets for toddlers and preschoolers are great options. Kids can connect tracks and move trains along, learn about cause and effect, and even problem-solve with the Brio My First Railway and this wooden train set.

Electric Train Sets

Get an interactive play experience with electric train sets like the Thomas & Friends Launch & Loop Track and Bachmann Trains Chattanooga set. Basic STEM concepts like motion and electricity can easily be introduced through these sets. Your child's interest in engineering and mechanics will be sparked as they control the speed and direction of their train.

Lego Train Sets

Watch your child get excited about building and learning with the Lego Duplo My First Number Train and Lego Duplo My First Animal Train, which encourage them to construct their own trains while using their imagination to the fullest, all while learning numbers and animals. Older kids will enjoy the Lego City Passenger Train, which includes 677 pieces to create the ultimate passenger locomotive.

Collector Train Sets for Kids

If your child enjoys building and admiring train sets, then you’ll want to add these to their collection. The Hot Bee Train Set and Lionel's Pennsylvania Flyer feature intricate designs and authentic details. You can be sure you’ll have hours of enjoyment constructing these.

Our Review Process

To choose the best train sets, we consulted Nicole Clelland, a play therapist, who explained how trains promote children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Willie Johnson, supervising engineer at Irvine Park Railroad in California and a train enthusiast, also shared insights on different types of trains children enjoy and key features parents should consider when buying a train set. We then researched 50 top sets, selecting those with the best features, value, durability, ease of use, and engagement potential, ensuring options for various age groups and interests.

Factors to Consider When Buying Train Sets for Kids

• Safety and Age Recommendation: Caregivers should check age recommendations when selecting a train set, as some may come with small pieces. For example, ride-ons may be safe for 12-month-olds due to low weight limits. Most wooden and plastic sets are rated for ages 3 years and up and may have small parts, while electric sets, often for ages 14 years and up, can include delicate details and smoke fluid, which isn't safe to ingest.
• Features: Train sets may include engaging features like lights, sounds, tunnels, and bridges, while wooden trains encourage imagination. For older kids, consider electric options with realistic lights and sounds, while young kids may enjoy familiar characters or fun themes.
• Power Source: Most trains run on batteries or electricity. Rechargeable batteries and a charger can help keep costs down for frequently used remote-controlled trains.

Who We Are

Jacquelyn Smith is a writer for Parents who covers parenting, fashion, and teaching. She is a former art teacher and professional charcoal artist. Jacquelyn is also a mom to a 15-year-old and 9-year-old daughter, who had a diverse collection of active and educational toys as infants.

Laura Lu is an experienced health writer for Parents who has a master of science degree in health communication. She’s also a mother of two young children who have spent countless hours over the years playing with their wooden train set.