Train lovers unite! EnterTRAINment Junction in Cincinnati is some serious model train fun. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I walked in the place. The entrance resembled a train depot, there were model and toy trains everywhere, and the place was brimming with excited children of all ages. EnterTRAINment Junction is located in West Chester which is less than a two hour drive south and easy to find. Admission prices were a bit steep, but the kids had so much fun it was worth every penny. We got the model train and carnival package that included the train displays and the carnival area (think mirror maze and black hole). This is a great sunny or rainy day activity.
We got our tickets and were on our way to see the largest model train display in the world. Miniature scenes took us on a tour of the history of the 
train. Our journey started with a Civil War encampment and ended with a contemporary city towering over us. There were rural and urban areas complete with farms and cities, and a replica of Cincinnati’s Coney Island from the 1965. At various times, the main lights would turn down and the tiny town lights would go on simulating nighttime. The displays were set up at adult eye-level and they provided stepping stools to help kids see.
There was a play area for the kids with a little merry-go-round, a netted climbing structure, and outside was a track with hand-pedal cars to ride. We also got to ride a little Thomas – the highlight of the day
for my son. My kids also enjoyed the historical exhibits, and our favorite was learning about the great train robbers. Once we exhausted our ability to look at trains we moved onto the carnival area.
I felt as if I stepped right into a circus. There was a mirror maze, the black hole (remember the tube that turns while you walk through?), a fun room with mirrors that distort your body and rooms set up as optical illusions. It was crazy. We were also there for the Christmas in July celebration and the kids got to see Mrs. Claus and get their picture taken with one of the best Santas I’ve seen. Fun day. You should take the kids.
EnterTRAINment Junction
7379 Squire Court
West Chester, OH 45069
877-898-8000
All Aboard! Plan your trip:
- They have food there, but it is stuff like hot dogs and chips. I’d suggest packing your lunch (they have tables) or searching out a place to eat nearby.
- Search for coupons to help with ticket cost or call to ask about special group rates.
- IKEA is only about 15 minutes away…we did both in a day, so can you.
- Strollers are welcome.
- They do birthday parties!
