Trains have been a source of fascination for kids and adults alike for many generations. Similarly, ride-on toys have been a popular playtime choice for children of all ages. The combination of the two is a match made in heaven that is sure to delight young train enthusiasts.
These toys can serve as helpful tools for toddlers who are learning to walk, and as they grow older, they can use the train to practice their balance and coordination skills (1). The interactive features on these trains can also be both fun and educational, teaching your child about the workings of a train and the role of a conductor.
In this article, we’ll explore the various types of ride-on trains available and provide helpful parent advice to help you choose the ideal one for your child.
Our Top Picks
- Best Ride-On Train For Toddlers: VTech Sit-to-Stand Ultimate Alphabet Train
- Runner-Up Ride-On Train For Toddlers: Peg Perego Santa Fe Train Ride On
- Best Ride-On Train And Push Walker: Lucky Doug Ride On Train
- Best Battery-Powered Ride-On Train: Rollplay Electric Train Ride On
- Best Electric Ride-On Train: TEMI Ride On Train with Track
- Best Ride-On Train For Backyard: Kiddieland Toys Limited Battery-Powered Mickey Choo
- Best Ride-On Train With Tracks: Power Wheels Thomas and Friends Ride-On Train
- Best Ride-On Train For Small Spaces: Little Tikes Cozy Train Scoot Ride-On with Track
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best Ride-On Trains For Toddlers Picks
VTech Sit-to-Stand Ultimate Alphabet Train – Best Ride-On Train For Toddlers
- The alphabet letters are the perfect size for little hands and are easy to put in/remove
- The buttons at the top are cute with different weather patterns
- The yellow walkie-talkie is very cute and has a little push button on the front
- There are so many activities on this thing. similar to an activity center
- The stickers that are on each block don’t hold up very well
The Blue Sit-to-Stand Ultimate Alphabet Train from VTech is an online exclusive that your child can enjoy riding, playing on the floor, or using as a walker. It is designed to grow with your child, with the caboose converting into a wagon that they can fill with toys and pull around when they become bigger.
The train also features 10 games that teach your child letters, numbers, colors, and more, as well as various manipulative elements, such as a clock, gears, and 13 double-sided letter blocks that can be inserted into the side of the train to expand their vocabulary.
The train even counts the blocks as they are lowered down the chute. Additionally, your child can use the walkie-talkie to pretend to communicate with their animal friends by pressing the corresponding buttons.
- Age Range: 1-3 years old
Peg Perego Santa Fe Train Ride On – Runner-Up Ride-On Train For Toddlers
- 2 toddlers can ride
- Works great on wooden floors
- Battery lasts for a while
- Easy setup
- The track is mostly curved pieces
This train can go up to 1 1/2 mph and includes 12 curved track sections for fun on flat floors or carpeted areas.
The train’s realistic design and electronic sound effects will captivate your child, while you can rest easy knowing that the wiring, engine, and gearbox are fully enclosed for safety.
An on/off switch allows little ones to drive at their own pace. Plus, this train includes a 6-volt rechargeable battery and charger and is proudly made in the USA using both domestic and foreign components.
- Age Range: 1.5-3 years old
Lucky Doug Ride On Train – Best Ride-On Train And Push Walker
- Has a storage
- Expandable carriage
- The train stays on the track well
- Lights and sounds on the steering wheel
- No volume control
If you’re looking for a versatile train toy for your child, the Lucky Doug train is a great choice. It can be used as a floor toy or on the track, or it can be used as a push walker depending on your child’s preference. The train also comes with a little trailer that your child can use to store their toys or other precious cargo.
With its multicolored steering wheel and fun lights and music, your child will love playing conductor and taking their toys on adventures. And with the option to add additional carriages, this train can grow with your child and provide even more fun for the whole family.
- Age Range: 2-6 years old
Rollplay Electric Train Ride On – Best Battery-Powered Ride-On Train
- Realistic train sounds
- Easy to assemble
- Produces steam
- It is pretty sturdy
- Battery life will last for about an hour
Perfect for miniature railroad enthusiasts and small cowboys and cowgirls, this sturdy train is colored bright red with accents of yellow and black and is fashioned to resemble the freighter trains of the Old West.
This is a battery-operated ride-on train set that emits actual steam and realistic sound effects, including a train whistle and chuffing noise that can be activated by pushing a button. It also moves forward and backward, and the fully removable caboose provides storage for favorite toys.
Plus, the track can be set up as either a 14-foot circle or a 24-foot oval, providing endless hours of imaginative play.
- Age Range: 2-5 years old
TEMI Ride On Train with Track – Best Electric Ride-On Train
- Easy to set up
- Safe
- Very good quality
- Handy storage bin
- Limited color options
TEMI offers a safe and comfortable ride for children on its electric train set, with a maximum speed of less than 1 mph and six sturdy wheels for added stability. For additional safety, it features a backrest and an anti-tilt attachment.
The 16 curved tracks provided allow for easy assembly of a 7.2-foot-diameter circle track, which can be used both indoors and outdoors. With a storage compartment behind the seat, your child’s favorite toys can be kept close at hand.
This versatile train can be transformed into a baby walker, a pull toy wagon, or a ride-on toy, and has an adjustable foot pedal design for added convenience. Additionally, an extra caboose can be added to accommodate a sibling or friend for even more fun.
- Age Range: 3+ years old
Kiddieland Toys Limited Battery-Powered Mickey Choo – Best Ride-On Train For Backyard
- Can be used on/off track
- Storage
- Disney themed
- The tracks can be placed down as a figure eight or a circle
- Not the fastest
To start the Mickey Train, simply press the red key button and move the lever forward or backward. To stop the train, press the green stop button and listen to it come to a halt. The train comes with a variety of noises and lights that can be activated by pressing different buttons.
On the side of the train, there are interactive features such as rotating gears and flipping tabs that showcase popular Disney characters. The train can be used both on and off tracks, perfect for backyard play and the mode can be easily switched using the switch underneath.
It can move forward and backward with the help of batteries, and in the foot-propelled mode, the child can maneuver the ride-on with their feet. Plus, the caboose can be opened to access toys and other treasures, and it can be detached if necessary.
- Age Range: 1-3 years old
Power Wheels Thomas and Friends Ride-On Train – Best Ride-On Train With Tracks
- The sounds from Thomas are very crisp and clear
- Large
- Assembly (of Thomas) is easy enough
- Controls are easy for a toddler to understand and operate
- Recharging the battery takes 12-18hrs
Don’t underestimate the power of small engines! The Power Wheels Thomas with Track allows toddlers to embark on adventures right in their living room. With toddler-friendly features, fun design, and Thomas phrases and sounds, they’ll be hopping on board every chance they get.
The push-button controls are easy for children to master, learning how to start, steer, and stop in no time. Even 12-month-olds can ride along the included track before they’re ready to take the wheel. As they grow older, they can explore beyond the track with Thomas.
The Power Wheels Thomas has sturdy tires that work well on and off the track, perfect for indoor play. It also features a single-rider seat, footrests, push-button controls, and a 6-volt battery for a comfortable and safe ride. On the track, it can reach a maximum speed of 1 mph, while off-track it can go up to 2 mph.
- Age Range: 1-3 years old
Related: Best Train Tables
Little Tikes Cozy Train Scoot Ride-On with Track – Best Ride-On Train For Small Spaces
- The train is easy to put together
- Works well on wooden floors
- The train can be pushed from behind or pushed along using one foot on either side while the toddler is sitting on it
- The track is easy to set up and take down
- Your toddler will outgrow it
This compact ride-on train is designed to be used with or without a track, making it a versatile toy for indoor and outdoor playtime.
Not only is the Cozy Train Scoot a fun ride-on toy, but it also serves as a push walker to help toddlers improve their motor skills. Whether your little one wants to scoot around the house or take a ride outside, this toy is a great option. Plus, its durable construction ensures it can withstand lots of playtime and adventure.
Its functional bell, dashboard, and under-seat storage enhance the ride-on experience and provide endless hours of imaginative playtime for your child.
- Age Range: 1-5 years old
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How To Choose The Best Ride On Trains for Toddlers?
- Age Range: A push-ride-on train can be an excellent tool for encouraging new toddlers and emerging walkers to take their first steps. Look for trains that offer extra features like shape sorters, as these can provide additional learning opportunities for your child.
- Safety: Make sure the ride-on train has appropriate safety features such as seat belts, anti-tip mechanisms, and stable wheels to prevent accidents.
- Material: Plastic-made trains are often easy to maintain and sturdy, making them a good choice for outdoor play and rough handling. Additionally, their lightweight nature makes them easier for kids to move around on their own, whether it’s because the battery has run out or they’re using their leg power.
- Ease Of Use: Choose a ride-on train that is easy to operate and control, with simple buttons or levers that your child can understand.
- Additional Features: Some ride-on trains come with additional features such as sounds, lights, and storage compartments. Consider what features would be most appealing to your child.
Types Of Ride-On Trains
- Electric/Battery-Powered Ride-On Trains: These trains run on a rechargeable battery and can move both on and off the tracks. They usually have features like realistic sound effects, lights, and adjustable speed control.
- Push-Along Ride-On Trains: These are designed for younger children who may not be able to operate a battery-powered ride-on train. They have a push handle that parents or caregivers can use to move the train along.
- Tracked Ride-On Trains: If you prefer your child’s train ride to be limited to a specific area, a train with tracks is a great option. This is especially ideal for those who want to create a dedicated train area in their yard instead of using their driveway.
- Trackless Ride-On Trains: These trains do not require tracks and can be driven on any flat surface. They are usually smaller than traditional ride-on trains and are more suitable for indoor play.
What Age Is Appropriate For Ride-On Trains?
Ride-on trains are designed for toddlers and young children between the ages of 1 and 5. Some models are designed to be used by children as young as 12 months old, while others are more suitable for children aged 2 and up.
Can You Ride The Train Outside The Track?
Yes, some ride-on trains can be ridden both on and off the track, making them versatile and fun for kids to ride anywhere. However, it is important to note that the ride may be different on different surfaces and may require more skill to control the ride-on train without the track. It’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines before using the ride-on train off the track.
Do Ride-On Trains For Toddlers Come With Sound Effects?
Yes, many ride-on trains for toddlers come with sound effects, such as train whistles, chuffing noises, and realistic train sounds. These sound effects can add to the excitement and realism of the play experience for children. Some ride-on trains also include music or other interactive features, such as buttons that trigger different sounds or phrases.
