There’s something about driving a train through an imaginary town that kids just can’t get enough of. And for parents, train sets are a fantastic toy choice because they encourage creativity and movement in children while providing a screen-free playtime option (1). But how can you take your child’s train set experience to the next level and keep both kids and adults happy for hours on end? The answer lies in train tables.
Train tables offer a variety of benefits that go beyond just keeping trains off the ground and neatly stored. They provide an elevated surface for children to stand and play, which can help improve posture and reduce discomfort from sitting for extended periods of time. Plus, they can save you from the agony of stepping on stray train pieces scattered across your floor!
We’ve examined the top 10 best train tables for kids on the market to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks
- Best Train Table Overall: KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Wooden Train Set & Table
- Best Train Table For Toddlers: Step2 Deluxe Canyon Road Train & Track Table
- Best Train Table For 3-year-Old: KidKraft Transportation Station Wooden Train Set and Table
- Best Train Table For 4-Year-Old: KidKraft Double-Sided Wooden Train and Activity Table
- Best Train Table With Storage: KidKraft Metropolis Wooden Train Set & Table
- Best Wooden Train Table: Little Tikes Real Wooden Train and Kids Table Set
- Best Colorful Train Table: Hey! Play! Wooden Train Set Table
- Best Train Table For Small Spaces: FUNPENY Train Table
- Best Portable Train Table: Melissa & Doug Wooden Take-Along Tabletop Railroad
- Easiest To Assemble Train Table: KidKraft Ride Around Town Wooden Train Set and Table
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best Train Tables For Kids Picks
KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Wooden Train Set & Table – Best Train Table Overall
- The trains sometimes get stuck in the waterfall tunnels
With 120 colorful pieces, your child can enjoy maneuvering the train through a moderate waterfall and over a suspension bridge.
There’s even a spinning blade helicopter and a crane to load and unload freight onto the railway. Plus, the entire set can be easily stored in mobile containers when it’s time for cleanup. At 4 by 3 feet, it’s one of the larger sets and can serve as a focal point in any playroom.
The hardwood is designed with curved edges to prevent chipping and splinters. Although the build may seem daunting, the instructions are easy to follow.
- Recommended Age: 2-10 years old
Step2 Deluxe Canyon Road Train & Track Table – Best Train Table For Toddlers
- Doubles as a play table
- Multilevel keeps it interesting
- Can use different types of cars and trains, like a matchbox and Hot Wheels cars
- Built-in storage
- Bridges and connecting pieces may pop off or free if too much pressure is applied or if it is pulled on
The durable plastic train table is resistant to scratches, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor play areas, and it is very easy to clean. The extra-large table features a multi-level track that provides hours of imaginative and interactive play for toddlers.
Plus, the molded-in track and seven fixed bridges ensure that the layout is always intact, and the parts are not easily misplaced. It is easy to store and retrieve the table, and children can stand and play at the table’s height.
The horizontal shape of the table makes it accessible for younger kids to reach the center. Additionally, the one-piece hardboard cover with one white side transforms the table into an activity table that blends seamlessly with any décor.
- Recommended Age: 3-10 years old
KidKraft Transportation Station Wooden Train Set and Table – Best Train Table For 3-year-Old
- Designed for a toddler
- Very sturdy
- It takes about 20 minutes to put together
- Has lots to do
- Only comes with one magnet set of three train cars
The KidKraft Transportation Station Train Set and Table comes with 58 pieces and features a towering train station where passengers can wait for their trip around town. With two flights of steps, the elevated boarding platform is easily accessible for everyone.
A three-car magnetic train circles around the airport, passing through the control tower before heading to its destination. The set also includes a functional crane that can lift and lower freight onto the train.
To keep playtime on the table and prevent items from falling off, the surface has a second track that circles around it and is raised one inch. This double-track design makes it perfect for enjoying with friends or family. Additionally, the molded plastic construction ensures durability and easy maintenance.
- Recommended Age: 3-10 years old
KidKraft Double-Sided Wooden Train and Activity Table – Best Train Table For 4-Year-Old
- Easy to assemble
- Can be played standing or seated
- The drawer for storage is great
- Great for imaginative play
- You need to buy a train set separately
The KidKraft Wooden Play Table provides ample space for 4-year-olds to exercise their imagination. The wooden table is designed to be simple and functional. Featuring a picturesque image of a parking lot, park, and beach on the tabletop, it offers endless opportunities for imaginative play.
Although it doesn’t come with a train set, it can be used with nearly any kit. The open design of the tabletop allows for limitless possibilities in terms of configuration. Children are free to create their own setups and take their little passengers to the beach or beyond.
Plus, the table is reversible, with two sides that can be used for different activities. It also has a large storage drawer and provides ample space for play.
- Recommended Age: 3-10 years old
KidKraft Metropolis Wooden Train Set & Table – Best Train Table With Storage
- The storage stores a lot
- This table cannot be beaten in looks (it is very nice-looking)
- The base and drawer are easy to assemble and set up is fairly easy
- Comes with a good amount of trains and cars to play with
- The expresso veneer on the train table is a really nice rich color, but it does seem to chip off easily in some areas
The KidKraft train table with an urban theme is perfect for children who love to play with cars and trains. With over 100 pieces, including magnetic three-car trains that can soar above the city on elevated rails, this table provides endless possibilities for imaginative play.
It also features large mountains, a police station, a double-decker suspension bridge, and boats to further enhance the play experience. Children can follow the provided instructions or create their own city, using the vibrant colors of the play surface to spark their imagination. When playtime is over, everything can be stored in the included box for easy cleanup.
- Recommended Age: 3-10 years old
Little Tikes Real Wooden Train and Kids Table Set – Best Wooden Train Table
- There are a ton of pieces
- Pretty easy to put together
- It has a pull-out drawer underneath for storage for anything from trains to cars to crayons
- Sturdy build
- In order to switch sides from city to country you have to take a part the track
If you’re in search of a durable and sturdy wooden train table for your active child, look no further than the Little Tikes table. This table is built to encourage your child’s imagination to soar and features sturdy legs that can support their weight if they want to climb aboard.
The reversible mat lets your child engage in both urban and rural role-playing activities. A drawer is conveniently located beneath the table for easy clean-up. Although the table requires some assembly, most parents found it to be easy to put together. When playtime is over, the equipment conveniently fits into the included rolling trundle.
- Recommended Age: 3-10 years old
Hey! Play! Wooden Train Set Table – Best Colorful Train Table
- Colorful
- Comes with lots of stuff
- You can have a plain side to play or the street side which is nice
- Cars are good quality
- The paint smears off easy
This set includes 75 unique pieces made entirely of genuine wood that will keep your little engineer entertained for hours.
The two-piece wooden playing surface can be detached and easily moved to the floor for extra building area, and features beautiful landscapes of water, roads, and natural habitats.
Plus, the hand-painted set comes with 27 wooden railroad tracks, 3 magnetic wooden trains, 1 helicopter, 2 boats, 4 vehicles, a bridge, a train station, a filling station, buildings, trees, and street signs, among other random extras.
- Recommended Age: 4-10 years old
FUNPENY Train Table – Best Train Table For Small Spaces
- Very easy to assemble
- Many included play pieces
- Very cute
- Vibrant colors
- No storage area
This small train table comes with a hospital, fire station, trains, taxis, people, and other fun accessories included.
The use of non-toxic paint and basswood material makes this train set safe and durable for children to play with. While the hand-drawn details on the components add a unique touch and make the play experience even more enjoyable.
Whether playing alone or with friends, kids can create endless scenarios with the simple-to-assemble railway kit and its many intriguing additions.
- Recommended Age: 3-10 years old
Melissa & Doug Wooden Take-Along Tabletop Railroad – Best Portable Train Table
- Ease of use
- Even without any decor/buildings, it is fun to use the track
- Great for travel since the track doubles as a case holding the train cars and scenery
- Nice finish/paint job on the track itself
- The built-in track could be deeper. Train derails easily
This set comes with built-in tracks and colorful scenery making for an engaging playtime, while the compact design allows for easy transportation during family trips or outings.
The set comes with everything your child needs to enjoy hours of imaginative play, including three wooden train cars, a park ranger vehicle, a bridge, a mountain tunnel, a gondola, a station, a cottage, trees, animals, and a railroad sign.
With all of these exciting features, your child can create their own unique train adventure wherever they go. And when playtime is over, the set can be easily packed away into its box for convenient storage.
- Recommended Age: 3-6 years old
KidKraft Ride Around Town Wooden Train Set and Table – Easiest To Assemble Train Table
- It offers a unique scenario compared to other sets
- It offers a huge mountain rock with the construction area
- All vehicles including the plane can drive on the train tracks
- Easy to clean, melamine surface, plastic trim, and the painted top is clear-coated
- The tracks are only one-sided, which limits the layouts you can do
If your child loves to play with small cars, they will definitely enjoy this train table. The set comes with 100 different pieces that include tracks, buildings, and vehicles, making it a complete and immersive experience. The table is made of sturdy wood and has a smooth surface that makes it easy to clean. Moreover, the vibrant colors of the set will definitely catch your child’s attention and spark their imagination.
Assembling the table is quite straightforward, and it won’t take too much time to set it up. Once assembled, your child can start playing and creating their own unique city. The tracks are designed to fit perfectly, and the vehicles can move smoothly along them.
- Recommended Age: 6 months – 6 years old
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How to Choose The Best Train Tables?
- Size: Train tables come in various sizes, so it’s essential to choose one that fits your space and your child’s needs. If you have limited space, consider a compact table that can be easily stored when not in use. On the other hand, if you have ample space, you may want to consider a larger table that can accommodate multiple children or a more extensive train set.
- Material: Train tables are typically made of wood, plastic, or a combination of both. Wooden tables tend to be more durable and have a classic look, while plastic tables are often lighter and easier to clean.
- Theme: Many train tables come with a specific theme or storyline, such as a cityscape, farm, or even a pirate adventure. Consider your child’s interests and choose a table that will capture their imagination and inspire creative play.
- Compatibility: If your child already has a train set, ensure that the table you choose is compatible with their existing trains and tracks. Some tables come with built-in tracks, while others have a flat surface for children to build their own layouts.
- Extra Features: Some train tables come with additional features such as storage drawers, bridges, tunnels, and other accessories that can enhance the play experience.
What Age Is Train Table For?
Train tables can be enjoyed by a range of ages, but they are typically designed for children between the ages of 3 and 8. However, this can vary depending on the specific train table and its features. Some train tables may have small parts that are not suitable for younger children, so it’s always important to read the manufacturer’s age recommendations before purchasing.
What Is The Best Size For A Train Table?
The best size for a train table depends on a few factors, such as the available space in your home and the age of your child. A small table, such as one that is 30 inches by 30 inches, might be appropriate for younger children or those with limited space. A larger table, such as one that is 50 inches by 30 inches, might be more suitable for older children or those with a larger play area.
Are Train Tables Good For Kids?
Yes, train tables are generally good for kids as they can help improve their creativity, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination (2). They also encourage imaginative play and socialization if multiple children are playing together. Train tables can provide hours of entertainment and educational opportunities as children learn about trains, tracks, and different types of transportation.
Why Are Some Kids Obsessed With Trains?
Trains are fascinating machines that have been around for over 200 years, so they have a rich history that can be interesting to learn about. Additionally, trains come in many different shapes and sizes, so they can be visually stimulating for children.
They are often depicted in popular media, such as children’s books and cartoons, which can further spark a child’s interest. Many children’s shows, such as Thomas the Tank Engine and Chuggington, revolve around trains and their adventures, which can be entertaining for young viewers.
Additionally, trains provide a sense of adventure and excitement, as they can take people to new places and offer unique experiences, such as riding on a steam train or a bullet train. This sense of adventure and discovery can be appealing to children who are naturally curious about the world around them.
