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10 Best Train Tables for Kids: 2024 Picks

Updated
Choo choo — the best train tables are rolling in.

Looking for a train table can be a daunting task. You need something that is the right size for your space, big enough for your train set, durable, and easy to assemble.

We’ve spent hours testing, evaluating, and comparing the best train tables for kids to ensure you find the perfect one to keep your child off the floor and their trains and tracks out from underfoot. Our top choices include 10 great models that have earned our trust and the trust of countless parents, day care providers, and other play centers.

Let us help you find the finest train table for your little conductor.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Little Tikes Wooden Set
Best Wooden
Little Tikes Wooden Set
  • Reliable brand
  • 80-piece set
  • Large surface
Product Image of the Melissa & Doug Take-Along
Best for Portability
Melissa & Doug Take-Along
  • 17-piece set
  • Built-in tracks
  • Sturdy wood construction
Product Image of the KidKraft Ride Around
Best for the Aspiring Mayor
KidKraft Ride Around
  • Four scenes included
  • With useful storage bin
  • Excellent height for seated children
Product Image of the KidKraft Metropolis
Best for Older Kids
KidKraft Metropolis
  • 100 pieces included with the table
  • Vibrant colors and detailed pieces
  • Large play surface
Product Image of the Simplay3 Carry & Go
Best Carry & Go
Simplay3 Carry & Go
  • Lightweight
  • 2-in-1 table with railway and racetrack
  • Durable double-wall plastic construction
Product Image of the Best Choice Products 35-Piece Train Table Large Multipurpose Wooden Toy Activity...
Best with Set
Best Choice Train Table
  • 35-piece train set
  • Reversible table top
  • Child-friendly height
Product Image of the KidKraft Transportation Station
Best for 3-Year-Olds
KidKraft Transportation Station
  • More than just a train table
  • Great for smaller-sized rooms
  • Two sets of tracks
Product Image of the Hey! Play! Train Table
Best Colorful
Hey! Play! Train Table
  • Durable solid wood
  • No electricity needed
  • Exciting playing surface
Product Image of the Melissa & Doug Wooden Activity
Best for Imaginative Play
Melissa & Doug Wooden Activity
  • Lots of potential for play
  • Spacious surface and large drawer
  • High-quality, wooden materials
Product Image of the KidKraft Wooden Play
Best for 4-Year-Olds
KidKraft Wooden Play
  • Excellent for imaginative play
  • Tons of layout options
  • Spacious drawer for toy storage


The Best Train Tables of 2024

Little Tikes Wooden Train Table

Best Wooden Train Table

If you’re looking for a sturdy wooden train table for your active child, this one is a winner. Little Tikes’ table is both durable and fun.

The table is designed so children can let their imagination run free. It’s suited with robust legs that can hold your child’s weight, should they decide to hop onboard.

It’s built with a drawer just below the train table for easy cleanup of messes. The table does require some assembly, but the assembly is a breeze.

Pros

  • Reliable brand of high-quality, durable toys.
  • Suitable for various activities.
  • Large surface with room for complete train sets.
  • Straightforward to assemble.

Cons

  • It’s more expensive than many other options.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included Yes
Dimensions 25.5 inches by 30.75 inches by 13.5 inches
Weight 27 pounds
Recommended age 3 years and up

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Included Accessories
4 / 5
Assembly Ease
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Experience

As a proud owner of this train table, I must say it has exceeded my expectations. The wooden construction is not only sturdy but also provides ample storage with a roll cart underneath. My child enjoys playing with it daily, and though the assembly was a bit time-consuming, it was straightforward and manageable. One minor drawback is the difficulty in switching the table's sides from city to country, requiring disassembly of the track. Despite this, the quality of the pieces and the overall enjoyment derived from the table make it a valuable addition to our play area.


Melissa & Doug Take-Along Railroad

Best Portable Train Table

If your little one wants to bring their train set wherever they go, this is the product you need.

Its built-in design is perfect for taking along on vacations or short outings. You no longer need a table for it because the product in itself serves as the table and the track.

Everything comes in the box — the tracks, train set, and accessories. Your little one will enjoy the scenic view and mountainous terrain as their vehicles transport goods throughout the countryside.

Pros

  • 17 pieces in this affordable, all-inclusive set.
  • Variety of compatible vehicle options.
  • Very portable table folds into a case with a handle to hold all the pieces.
  • Sturdy wood construction and high-quality finish.

Cons

  • Needs a flat surface to work well.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included Yes
Dimensions 2.75 inches by 15.38 inches by 10.75 inches
Weight 4.65 pounds
Recommended age 3 and up

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Included Accessories
4 / 5
Assembly Ease
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Insight

When I first introduced this train set to my children, both my 2-year-old and 6-year-old were instantly captivated, despite the lack of batteries or noise. The durable carrying container has withstood rough play, including being jumped on, and remains in excellent condition. I appreciate the portability of the set, allowing us to take it anywhere with ease. However, some pieces don't fit as snugly as they should, requiring occasional reassembly.


KidKraft Ride Around Town Train Set and Table

Best Train Table for the Aspiring Mayor

Do you have a natural-born leader on your hands? If your child wants to run their own city, then this train table from KidKraft is a good pick. It’s a complete set with a table and a mini city.

Your child gets four scenes in the set — an airport, a construction site, a farm, and a sleepy town. They can ride their train over and under bridges while the helicopter flies overhead.

The table is large, so there’s ample room for multiple kids to play together. The set also allows children to get creative — the tracks don’t have to follow the instructions. They can create a different layout for each playtime.

Once your child has finished playing, they can stack all the pieces neatly in the included storage box, which sits conveniently underneath the table.

Pros

  • Thorough set with four scenes included.
  • Large surface with room for several children.
  • Useful storage bin included.
  • Excellent height for seated children.

Cons

  • The houses and animals are rather small.
  • The train tracks are one-sided, restricting how you can place them.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included Yes
Dimensions 49 inches by 34 inches by 16 inches
Weight 43 pounds
Recommended age 3 to 12 years

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Included Accessories
4.5 / 5
Assembly Ease
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Review

My experience with this KidKraft train table has been overwhelmingly positive, and I'm thoroughly impressed by its quality and adaptability. The low cost and compatibility with popular train brands like Thomas and Brio make it an attractive choice for parents. I was able to customize the table with various Thomas-themed accessories, which my toddler absolutely loves. The wooden construction feels sturdy, and the storage bins underneath are a great bonus for keeping everything organized. Assembly was simple and straightforward. The only minor issue I encountered was the bridge not being tall enough for some trains, but using the tree bottoms provided with the set easily resolved this.


KidKraft Metropolis Train Table & Set

Best Train Table for Older Kids

Let your child’s imagination soar with this metropolitan-inspired train table from KidKraft. It has everything your kiddo needs for hours of imaginative play.

The table comes with a bundle consisting of 100 pieces decked out in colorful hues. Contents include magnetic three-car trains capable of gliding above the city on elevated tracks. There’s also a double-decker suspension bridge, tall mountains, a police station, and boats.

Your child can build the city how they like or follow the included instructions. The play surface on the table sports vibrant colors to kickstart the imagination. It’s smooth and a breeze to keep clean — when finished playing, everything is stored in the included box.

Pros

  • One hundred pieces included with the table.
  • Vibrant colors and detailed pieces.
  • Large play surface, allowing for multiple friends.
  • Storage bin included for easy cleanup.

Cons

  • The tracks come apart too easily.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included Yes
Dimensions 46.9 inches by 32.9 inches by 26.8 inches
Weight 81 pounds
Recommended age 3 to 12 years

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Included Accessories
5 / 5
Assembly Ease
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Individual Opinion

My kids absolutely love this KidKraft train table, as it provides endless hours of imaginative play with its colorful and detailed 100-piece set. They enjoy constructing their own city and sending the magnetic three-car trains gliding on elevated tracks, crossing the double-decker suspension bridge, and exploring the mountains, police station, and boats. The large, vibrant play surface allows for group play and easy clean-up with the included storage box, although the tracks do tend to come apart a bit easily.


Simplay3 Carry and Go Track Table

Best Carry-and-Go Train Table

Toddlers and young children love feeling independent, which is why a train table such as this one from Simplay3 is excellent. It’s lightweight, at 6.5 pounds.

The table is suitable for kids ages 3 and up. It features side handles so your child can carry it themselves.

It’s a two-in-one table. On one side, there’s a railroad for the train. When you flip it, it’s a racetrack for toy cars.

The track rails run in a figure eight. It features a scenic experience for the miniature passengers with a small lake and quarry. These are decals you and your child can use to decorate the table.

On the race car track, your child gets to navigate their trucks and cars through obstacles. The table is made of double-wall plastic, which is durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor play.

Pros

  • Lightweight and has handles to promote independent play.
  • Two-in-one table with a railway and racetrack.
  • Durable double-wall plastic construction.
  • No assembly required.

Cons

  • Quite bland — it could use more colors.
  • More included decals would be better.

Product Specs

Material Plastic
Train included No
Dimensions 35.5 inches by 17.5 inches by 4 inches
Weight 6.5 pounds
Recommended age 3 years and up

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Included Accessories
3 / 5
Assembly Ease
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My two-year-old absolutely adores this double-sided track, and it keeps him entertained for hours. He enjoys playing with trains on one side and Hot Wheels monster trucks on the other. I'm impressed with the durability of this product, as it withstands him sitting on it during playtime. My older daughter also loves playing with it, making it a great toy for both of them. The only downside I've noticed is the sticker quality, which seems like it might wear out quickly.


Best Choice 35-Piece Train Table

Best Train Table with Set

If you’re searching for a complete set with a table included, we’ve found it. This table from Best Choice provides your child with everything needed for some wholesome train fun. It’s suitable for children ages 3 and up.

In the bundle, your child gets a set of 35 pieces to complete the look, all made of wood and easy to assemble. These include items such as tracks, a police station, a bridge, a school, cars, and more.

The tabletop is embellished with roads, trees, and a small farm to spark the imagination. Then your little one can put the tracks and mini-city wherever they please, promoting creativity, coordination, and motor skills.

Pros

  • All-inclusive bundle with a table and a 35-piece train set.
  • Multi-purpose reversible table top.
  • Promotes traits such as coordination and motor skills.
  • Child-friendly materials.

Cons

  • Some wish the parts included were numbered to make for easier assembly.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included Yes
Dimensions 52.75 inches by 19 inches by 4.75 inches
Weight 39.7 pounds
Recommended age 3 years and up

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Included Accessories
5 / 5
Assembly Ease
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

KidKraft Transportation Station Train Set

Best Train Table for 3-Year-Olds

The perfect play station for a 3-year-old is one that combines trains, airports, and a construction vehicle. KidKraft includes it all in this train table and set.

It’s any child’s dream bundle. They can drive the train around town, taking people to and from the airport. Then stop by the construction site to pick up the workers after a long day.

They’ll love the bulldozer and the moving crane that lifts cargo around the site. Your little one can fly the helicopter or airplane, then land on the helipad and landing strip. People can rush down the escalator to catch the train — It’s fun, and there’s room for a friend.

Pros

  • Much more than just a train table.
  • Great for smaller-sized rooms.
  • There are two sets of tracks.

Cons

  • Not the biggest — two kids maximum.
  • Only one train is included despite the picture showing two.

Product Specs

Material Wood and plastic
Train included Yes
Dimensions 34.2 inches by 26.8 inches by 26.2 inches
Weight 24.2 pounds
Recommended age 3 to 8 years

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Included Accessories
4.5 / 5
Assembly Ease
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Insight

Got this table for my son and he absolutely loves it, although the assembly was quite a challenge. The table is sturdy, but some holes didn't line up properly, requiring a bit of extra patience and even some drilling. Despite the minor issues during setup, the table is a fantastic addition to our playroom, providing hours of fun for my toddler with his trains.


Hey! Play! Wooden Train Set Table

Best Colorful Train Set

Your little one will enjoy hours of fun with this super bright and colorful train set. The table includes a roadway, a natural habitat, and waterways for endless fun. You can completely customize the wooden train track and other accessories — like a bridge — over the awesome track. No two tracks will be the same!

If your little one would like, they can take the playing surface off the table and put it on the floor. This allows for even more space to play around.

We love that there are no batteries, electronics, or tools required. It’s old-fashioned and straightforward for endless play no matter where you are.

Pros

  • It’s made with durable solid wood for years of play.
  • No electronics, so you can play with this anywhere and at any time.
  • Exciting play surface to keep your child occupied.
  • Completely customizable tracks, so your little one can build it dozens of ways.

Cons

  • The pieces don’t fit that well, so they may come apart during play.
  • Many customers claimed the wooden pieces were scratched or dented upon arrival.

Product Specs

Material Wood and nylon
Train included Yes
Dimensions 32.5 inches by 23.5 inches by 15.75 inches
Weight 25.4 pounds
Recommended age 4 years and up

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Included Accessories
4.5 / 5
Assembly Ease
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Review

My experience with this train table has been a mix of excitement and slight disappointment. The vibrant colors and perfect size had my child ecstatic, but the quality leaves something to be desired. Unfortunately, we were missing some pieces upon arrival, which made assembly more challenging. Although the train table isn't the most durable, I was able to fix some issues with additional screws. My child loves playing with it, but be prepared for potential missing pieces and quality concerns.


Melissa & Doug Wooden Multi-Activity Play Table

Best Train Table for Imaginative Play

This table from Melissa & Doug is great for children of all ages. It’s a multi-activity table meant to be used for train tracks, arts, block play, puzzles, and dolls.

The Melissa & Doug company always uses high-quality wooden materials, and this table is no exception. It’s made of top-notch wood, coated in a white finish with a green deck.

The table is spacious, so there’s room for several children to play at once without it feeling overcrowded. It’s suitable for kids aged 3 to 8.

You’ll appreciate the big drawer included — it’s perfect for storing away trains, tracks, and accessories. Once your little one is ready to play again, they can take out everything by themselves. You’ll have to purchase the train and track set separately.

Pros

  • Lots of potential for play.
  • Spacious surface and large drawer.
  • Durable materials.
  • A breeze to keep clean.

Cons

  • Train set is sold separately.
  • The table isn’t high, so children have to kneel when playing.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included No
Dimensions 16 inches by 32.5 inches by 50 inches
Weight 59.8 pounds
Recommended age 3 to 8 years

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Included Accessories
2.5 / 5
Assembly Ease
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Individual Opinion

Definitely a fantastic multi-activity table for kids aged 3 to 8, with plenty of space for train tracks, arts, block play, puzzles, and dolls. I love the durable, high-quality wood construction and the large drawer for easy storage of toys. However, be prepared for kids to kneel while playing, as the table isn't very high, and note that the train set is sold separately.


KidKraft Double-Sided Wooden Train and Activity Table

Best Train Table for 4-Year-Olds

The Wooden Play Table by KidKraft is excellent for any child with a vivid imagination. It’s simple — in the best way.

It’s a basic wooden table with a scenic picture on the deck, displaying a parking lot, green area, and beach. A train set isn’t included, but it’s compatible with nearly any kit.

The free space of the deck allows for endless layouts. Your child can construct as they please and take the miniature passengers on a trip to the shore.

The tabletop is double-sided, meaning you can flip it over for other activities. The table is large and includes a roomy drawer for storage.

Pros

  • Excellent for imaginative play.
  • Tons of layout options.
  • Double-sided tabletop.
  • Spacious drawer for toy storage.

Cons

  • Train set not included.
  • Scratches quickly.

Product Specs

Material Wood
Train included No
Dimensions 47.6 inches by 31.6 inches by 15.8 inches
Weight 40 pounds
Recommended age 3 to 8 years

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Durability
3 / 5
Included Accessories
2.5 / 5
Assembly Ease
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

In my experience, this play table has been a decent addition to our living room, providing a dedicated space for my toddler to play with their cars and trucks. The assembly process was a bit frustrating due to some damaged and warped pieces, but once it was put together, the table turned out to be quite sturdy. Although the table's top boards tend to bend, causing a slight ridge in the middle, it still serves its purpose and keeps my child entertained.


Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Material Train included Dimensions Weight Recommended age
Little Tikes Wooden Wood No 25.5″ x 30.75″ x 13.5″ 27 lbs 3 years and up
Melissa & Doug Take-Along Portable Wood Yes 2.75″ x 15.38″ x 10.75″ inches 4.65 lbs 3 years and up
KidKraft Ride Around For the Aspiring Mayor Wood Yes 49″ x 34″ x 16″ 43 lbs 3 – 12 years
KidKraft Metropolis For Older Kids Wood Yes 46.9″ x 32.9″ x 26.8″ 81 lbs 3 – 12 years
Simplay3 Carry & Go Carry & Go Plastic No 35.5″ x 17.5″ x 4″ 6.5 lbs 3 years and up
Best Choice Train Set With Set Wood Yes 52.75″ x 19″ x 4.75″ 39.7 lbs 3 years and up
KidKraft Transportation Station For 3-Year-Olds Wood and plastic Yes 34.2″ x 26.8″ x 26.2″ 24.2 lbs 3 – 8 years
Hey! Play! Wooden Colorful Wood and nylon Yes 32.5″ x 23.5″ x 15.75″ 25.4 lbs 4 years and up
Melissa & Doug Wooden Activity For Imaginative Play Wood No 16″ x 32.5″ x 50″ 59.8 lbs 3 – 8 years
KidKraft Double-Sided Wooden Table For 4-Year-Olds Wood No 47.6″ x 31.6″ x 15.8″ 40 lbs 3 – 8 years

How to Choose a Train Table

Included Features

Some train tables are round, and others are rectangular. Some are bare, while others include a load of accessories.

Tables that include a full set of trains and tracks are an excellent place to start. It eliminates the need for purchasing a separate bundle, and it’s ready to use from day one. Some sets provide other accessories, such as buildings, cars, and helicopters.

However, make sure the quality of the included bundle is decent. Some are poorly made and won’t hold up for long.

Some tables feature a double-sided deck. These are fantastic if your toddler needs a place for other activities as well.

No matter what’s included, we recommend finding a train table with a painted landscape. This helps kickstart the imagination, creating a path for the adventure your youngster is about to embark on.

Room for Creativity

No doubt your child will have to use their imagination when playing. However, some tables have set limits as to how far kids can take their creativity. Some don’t allow the user to create their own layouts, and they must follow detailed instructions.

If train tracks are included, look for those that are double-sided. This allows for free roam as to how the layout should be, enhancing your child’s creative side (1). You may be surprised by their inventions.

Quality of Materials

Train tables have to be sturdy. Children will inevitably try to climb them or maneuver them around the home. Some manufacturers use plastic. If choosing this type, look for one that uses a double-wall construction.

Most companies use wood, which is great for indoor use. The tables become a piece of furniture, durable enough to hold a small child who likes to climb.

However, if you’re searching for a table for the playhouse in your yard, go for plastic. Wood will likely begin to mold after some time, which isn’t safe for your child.

Quality Control

A good way to ensure the quality is up to standards is by choosing a known and trusted brand. The best brands for train tables include KidKraft, Step2, Little Tikes, and Melissa & Doug.

Size and Height

These are two crucial elements. Do you want your child to be able to stand while playing, or should they sit on the floor or in a chair?

Heights vary significantly — some tables are suitable for a 4- to 5-year-old to stand at comfortably. Others have short legs and are merely elevated enough so your child doesn’t have to build train tracks on the floor.

You want to find something that fits your space. Some wooden tables are rather large and heavy, meaning you can’t move them easily or store them away. Consider where you’ll be placing it, and pick a fitting size.


Train Tables FAQs

What Age is a Train Table Best For?

Train tables are typically best for kids aged three to seven years old, offering an ideal height and space for creative play.

Why Are Train Tables Good For Kids?

Train tables encourage imaginative play and motor skills development and can provide a dedicated space for building and playing with train sets.

Why are Model Train Sets So Expensive?

Quality, detail, and the technology used in model trains can drive up the price, especially for those designed for hobbyists and collectors.

Why are Some Kids Obsessed With Trains?

Trains often fascinate kids due to their movement, sounds, and ability to control or arrange them, tapping into a love for order and mechanics.

What is the Best Wood For a Train Table?

Sturdy, durable woods like birch or pine are common for train tables, offering a solid, long-lasting play surface.

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Edited by

Shannon Serpette

Shannon Serpette is an award-winning writer and editor, who regularly contributes to various newspapers, magazines, and websites. Shannon has been featured on Insider, Fatherly, SheKnows, and other high profile publications. As a mother of two, she loves to write about parenting issues and is dedicated to educating other parents at every stage of their child's development.