State train ride guide
Train Rides Explorer lists 56 train rides in California. Compare the practical details families need before planning a visit.
Angels Flight is a toddler-friendly unique ride in Downtown LA, CA. The ride lasts ~1 min, costs $1 for adults and $1 for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A historic funicular railway in Downtown LA that's been climbing Bunker Hill since 1901. A short, charming ride that's cheap ($1 each way) and perfect for toddlers who love the novelty of a hill-climbing train. Located near Grand Central Market for a family lunch.
Belmont Park Miniature Train is a toddler-friendly miniature ride in Mission Beach, San Diego, CA. The ride lasts ~5 min, costs ~$3-5 per ride for adults and ~$3-5 per ride for children, and children under two ride FREE (lap).
A small train ride at the historic Belmont Park beachfront amusement park in Mission Beach. The short track is ideal for toddlers who aren't ready for the bigger rides. Ride tickets are sold individually or as part of a wristband. Combine with the beach, boardwalk, and the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster for a classic San Diego beach day.
Billy Jones Wildcat RR is a toddler-friendly miniature ride in Los Gatos, CA. The ride lasts 15–20 min, costs ~$4 for adults and ~$4 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A beloved miniature train in Oak Meadow Park, Los Gatos, running since 1970. Toddlers adore the 1-mile loop through the trees alongside a creek. Also features a carousel and playground — perfect for a low-key family afternoon. Very affordable at ~$3.50/ride.
Calico & Odessa Railroad is a toddler-friendly steam and unique train ride in Barstow, CA. The ride lasts ~15 min, costs ~$5 + ghost town for adults and ~$5 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A narrow-gauge train ride through historic Calico Ghost Town in the Mojave Desert. The 20-minute round trip offers views of the old mining town and surrounding hills. Kids love the authentic old-west feel. Open seasonally — check website for hours.
Calico and Odessa Railroad is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Calico, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A duplicate listing for the narrow-gauge train ride through Calico Ghost Town. Features historic mine views and old-west atmosphere.
California State Railroad Museum is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Sacramento, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
One of the largest and finest railroad museums in the world, located in Old Sacramento. Features 21 beautifully restored locomotives and cars plus interactive exhibits tracing California's railroad history.
California Western Railroad is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Fort Bragg, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
California Western Railroad, also called The Skunk Train
California Zephyr (short seg) is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Emeryville→Truckee, CA. The ride lasts ~4 hrs, costs ~$30-50 for adults and ~$15-25 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE (lap).
One of America's most scenic train routes crossing the Sierra Nevada. The Emeryville-to-Truckee segment is a stunning 2-3 hour ride through Donner Pass with mountain views. A fantastic family day trip from the Bay Area to explore Truckee's historic downtown.
Coast Starlight (short seg) is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in SJO→SLO, CA. The ride lasts ~3-4 hrs, costs ~$30-50 for adults and ~$15-25 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE (lap).
Amtrak's iconic West Coast route running along the Pacific Ocean. The San Jose to San Luis Obispo segment offers gorgeous coastal views through the Santa Cruz Mountains and past Pismo Beach. Comfortable seating, a café car, and big windows make it toddler-friendly.
Disneyland Railroad is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in Anaheim, CA. The ride lasts ~20 min loop, costs In park ticket for adults and In park ticket for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A grand-circuit steam train circling Disneyland Park, operating since 1955. The 20-minute ride passes through the Grand Canyon diorama and Primeval World with animatronic dinosaurs — a must-do for train-obsessed kids at Disneyland. Great break from long lines.
E Embarcadero Streetcar is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts 20-30 min, costs ~$3 for adults and ~$3 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
Historic streetcars running along San Francisco's Embarcadero from the Financial District to Aquatic Park. Kids love the vintage cars from around the world. Easy flat route with gorgeous Bay Bridge views. $2.50 adults, kids 5-18 pay reduced fare.
F Market & Wharves streetcar line is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
San Francisco's iconic historic streetcar line connecting the Castro to Fisherman's Wharf. Restored vintage trolleys from cities worldwide in daily service.
F Market Historic Streetcar is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts 30-45 min, costs ~$3 for adults and ~$3 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
San Francisco's iconic historic streetcar line running from Castro to Fisherman's Wharf. Rides beautifully restored vintage trolleys from cities worldwide. A hit with toddlers who love the clanging bells and colorful cars. Runs on street — fun city sightseeing.
Fillmore and Western Railway is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Fillmore, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
Fillmore and Western Railway - short line used by Hollywood film industry. (Lease agreement ended in 2021)
Ghost Town & Calico Railroad in Knott's Berry Farm is a toddler-friendly steam ride in Buena Park, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A full-size steam train circling Knott's Berry Farm theme park in Buena Park. The 15-minute ride passes old-west scenery with a staged train robbery show. Included with park admission.
Golden Gate Railroad Museum (No excursions listed) is a toddler-friendly scenic and museum train ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A museum dedicated to preserving the railroad heritage of the San Francisco Bay Area. Houses a collection of historic locomotives and rolling stock. Currently not offering regular excursion rides.
Griffith Park Southern RR is a toddler-friendly steam ride in Los Angeles, CA. The ride lasts ~15 min, costs ~$4.50 for adults and ~$4.50 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A 1/3-scale live steam railroad operating since 1948 in Griffith Park, LA. The 3.5-mile round trip through the park takes about 15 minutes. Affordable family fun at $3.50/ride. Located near Travel Town and the LA Zoo for a full day out.
Irvine Park Railroad is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA (Irvine Regional Park), CA. The ride lasts ~15 min loop, costs $6 for adults and $6 for children, and children under two ride FREE (lap child).
1/3-scale C.P. Huntington train through historic Irvine Regional Park. Narrated ride past Orange County Zoo and lake. Also has paddle boats, bike rentals, pony rides, and picnic areas. Very popular Christmas Train (Nov-Dec, $15/person). Also offers Easter and Halloween events.
Knott's Berry Farm Railroad is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in Buena Park (LA), CA. The ride lasts ~15 min, costs Park ticket ~$70+ for adults and Park ticket for children, and children under two ride Paying.
Ghost Town & Calico Railroad at Knott's Berry Farm — a full-size steam train circling the park. The 15-minute ride takes you past old-west scenery with a staged train robbery show. Included with park admission. Fun for all ages, very toddler-friendly.
LEGOLAND Express is a toddler-friendly unique ride in Carlsbad (San Diego), CA. The ride lasts ~5-10 min loop, costs Park admission ~$80 for adults and Park admission ~$80 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE (under 2).
A kid-powered LEGO-themed train ride at LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad. The LEGO Express takes little ones on a short loop through the park past giant LEGO creations. Perfect for toddlers and young LEGO fans. Combine with the park's other attractions for a full day of family fun in North San Diego County.
Los Angeles Live Steamers is a toddler-friendly miniature and steam train ride in Griffith Park, LA, CA. The ride lasts ~10 min, costs FREE for adults and FREE for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A volunteer-run miniature railroad in Griffith Park offering free rides on select Sundays. Trains are rideable scale models pulled by live steam or diesel engines. A hidden gem — free, authentic, and magical for young train enthusiasts. Check their schedule.
Napa Valley Wine Train is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Napa, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A gourmet dining train traveling through Napa Valley's famous wine country. Restored vintage railcars offer brunch, lunch, and dinner excursions with wine pairings.
Nevada County Narrow Gauge Museum is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Nevada City, CA. The ride lasts ~1 hr, costs ~$10 donation for adults and FREE for children, and children under two ride FREE.
Museum preserving the history of the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad in Nevada City. Features historic locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts in a restored depot. Short train rides available seasonally. A great stop on the way to or from the Sierra foothills.
Niles Canyon Railway is a toddler-friendly scenic and museum train ride in Sunol/Fremont, CA. The ride lasts 1-1.5 hrs, costs ~$20 for adults and ~$15 (3+) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A heritage railway running along scenic Niles Canyon through the Sunol valley. Offers 60-minute round trips on vintage trains pulled by historic steam or diesel locomotives. Popular for holiday-themed trains (Easter Bunny, Pumpkin Patch, Christmas). Very family-friendly.
Nut Tree Railroad is a toddler-friendly miniature ride in Vacaville, CA. The ride lasts ~10 min, costs ~$5 for adults and ~$5 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A miniature train ride at the Nut Tree family entertainment complex in Vacaville. The ride winds through gardens and around the property. Great for a quick stop on I-80 between SF and Sacramento. Affordable, easy, and toddler-friendly.
Oakland Zoo Train is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in Oakland, CA. The ride lasts ~15 min, costs Zoo admission for adults and Zoo admission for children, and children under two ride Paying (under 2 free zoo?).
A miniature train ride at the Oakland Zoo taking visitors through the Outback Adventure exhibit. Kids can spot kangaroos and wallabies from the train. Included with zoo admission. A fun addition to a zoo day, especially for younger kids.
Pacific Coast Railroad in Santa Margarita is a toddler-friendly steam and scenic train ride in Santa Margarita, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A heritage railroad in San Luis Obispo County offering seasonal train rides through California's Central Coast. Features steam locomotive excursions and special event trains through scenic countryside.
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is a toddler-friendly museum and scenic train ride in Campo (SD), CA. The ride lasts 1-2 hrs, costs $15 for adults and $10 (3+) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A museum in Campo, SD featuring historic trains from the Southwest. The highlight is a 45-mile round trip excursion through the backcountry on the San Diego & Arizona Eastern Railway. Special events include Day Out With Thomas and Polar Express.
Placerville & Sacramento Valley Railroad is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Placerville, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
Placerville & Sacramento Valley Railroad, oldest railroad west of the Mississippi[1]
Port of LA Waterfront Red Car is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in San Pedro, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
Port of LA Waterfront Red Car, a rebuilt part of the original Pacific Electric Railway system (Closed in 2015)
Poway–Midland Railroad is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Poway, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A small heritage railroad in Poway, California offering short train rides through the community park. Features a vintage locomotive and kid-friendly excursion experiences.
Railtown 1897 is a toddler-friendly steam and museum train ride in Jamestown, CA. The ride lasts ~1 hr ride, costs ~$15-20 for adults and ~$10-15 (3+) for children, and children under two ride FREE (under 3).
A historic railroad museum in Jamestown featuring the Sierra Railroad's original 1897 roundhouse and shops. Offers 45-minute train rides behind vintage steam locomotives through the Sierra Nevada foothills. Famous for filming dozens of movies and TV shows.
Redwood Valley Railway is a toddler-friendly steam, scenic and miniature train ride in Berkeley, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A 15-inch gauge miniature railroad operating in Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. Features live steam locomotives pulling passengers through eucalyptus groves. A beloved East Bay tradition since 1952.
Roaring Camp Railroad is a toddler-friendly scenic and steam train ride in Felton / Santa Cruz, CA. The ride lasts 1 hr, costs ~$39 for adults and ~$30 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A steam train through ancient redwood forests in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Two routes: the Beach Train to Santa Cruz Boardwalk and the Redwood Forest Loop. The steam whistle echoing through redwoods is unforgettable for kids and adults alike. A world-class family experience.
Sacramento RiverTrain is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in West Sac, CA. The ride lasts 1.5-2.5 hrs, costs ~$30-70 for adults and ~$20-50 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE (lap).
A scenic train ride along the Sacramento River offering various themed excursions (brunch, dinner, murder mystery). The standard 1.5-hour round trip passes wetlands and wildlife. Great for a relaxed family outing. First-class dome car available for better views.
Sacramento Southern Railroad is a toddler-friendly scenic and museum train ride in Sacramento, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A heritage railroad operating excursions from the California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento. Offers 40-minute round trips along the Sacramento River waterfront on vintage trains.
Sacramento Train Museum + Amtrak is a toddler-friendly amtrak and museum train ride in Sacramento, CA. The ride lasts Museum 1-3 hrs, costs ~$12 + Amtrak for adults and ~$5 Amtrak for children, and children under two ride FREE museum.
The California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento — one of the largest and best railroad museums in the world. Features 21 beautifully restored locomotives and cars. Adjacent to the Sacramento Valley Station for real Amtrak train-watching. A paradise for train-loving families.
San Bernardino Railroad Historical Society (For AT&SF 3751 excursion trips) is a toddler-friendly steam, scenic and museum train ride in San Bernardino, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A historical society dedicated to preserving AT&SF steam locomotive 3751. Offers occasional excursion trips and maintains exhibits about Santa Fe Railway history in Southern California.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Balboa Park, San Diego, CA. The ride lasts 1-2 hours (self-guided), costs ~$10-15 for adults and ~$7-10 (3-12) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
The largest model railroad museum in North America, located in Balboa Park's Casa de Balboa. Features enormous O-scale, HO-scale, and G-scale operating layouts depicting California railroad history. Kids love the interactive buttons that activate trains and the detailed miniature worlds. A must-visit for train-enthusiast families in San Diego.
San Diego Silver Line Trolley is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in Downtown SD, CA. The ride lasts ~25 min loop, costs ~$3 for adults and ~$3 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A vintage trolley line in downtown San Diego running on a loop through the Gaslamp Quarter and East Village. Uses historic PCC streetcars. A fun, affordable way to see downtown. $2.50 adults, kids 6-18 pay reduced fare.
San Diego Zoo Bus Tour is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in Balboa Park, San Diego, CA. The ride lasts ~35 min narrated tour, costs Included w/ zoo admission (~$65) for adults and Included w/ zoo admission (~$55 ages 3-11) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
The Guided Tour Bus at the world-famous San Diego Zoo offers a narrated 35-minute tour of the zoo's 100-acre grounds. While not a train, the double-decker bus tour is a favorite with toddlers who love riding on top and spotting animals from above. The zoo also features the Skyfari aerial tram and Kangaroo Bus that shuttles between exhibits. A world-class family destination.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Africa Tram is a toddler-friendly zoo and scenic train ride in Escondido (San Diego), CA. The ride lasts ~30 min guided tour, costs Included w/ park admission (~$65) for adults and Included w/ park admission (~$55 ages 3-11) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A guided tram tour through the expansive African savanna habitats at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. The open-air tram takes families past free-roaming giraffes, rhinos, antelopes, and zebras with engaging narration. Included with park admission and a highlight for any family visiting North San Diego County.
San Francisco cable car system is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
The world's last manually-operated cable car system, climbing San Francisco's famous hills since 1873. Three lines offer stunning bay views and a unique National Historic Landmark experience.
San Francisco Municipal Railway E Embarcadero streetcar line is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
San Francisco Municipal Railway E Embarcadero streetcar line
Seaport Village Miniature Train is a toddler-friendly miniature ride in San Diego, CA. The ride lasts ~5-10 min loop, costs ~$5 per ride for adults and ~$5 per ride for children, and children under two ride FREE (lap).
A charming miniature train ride at Seaport Village, the waterfront shopping and dining complex on San Diego Bay. The short loop is perfect for toddlers and young children, offering views of the bay and Coronado Bridge. Combine with a stroll through the village, carousel ride, and lunch by the water for a relaxed family afternoon.
SF Cable Cars is a toddler-friendly streetcar ride in San Francisco, CA. The ride lasts 15–30 min, costs ~$8 for adults and ~$8 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
San Francisco's world-famous cable cars — the last manually-operated cable car system in the world. Three lines climb the city's steep hills with stunning bay views. A must-do for any SF visit. Kids are fascinated by the underground cable mechanism. $8 adult, kids 5-18 pay less.
Sierra Railway is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Jamestown, CA. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
Sierra Railway - Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Skunk Train is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Fort Bragg, CA. The ride lasts 2-4 hrs, costs ~$50-70 for adults and ~$35-50 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A scenic rail route through Mendocino County's redwood forests from Fort Bragg to the inland wilderness. Named for the original gas-powered 'Skunk' railcars. The 2-hour round trip crosses bridges and trestles through towering redwoods. An enchanting family adventure.
SLO Railroad Museum is a toddler-friendly museum ride in San Luis Obispo, CA. The ride lasts ~1 hr, costs FREE for adults and FREE for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A free museum in the historic San Luis Obispo train station featuring model trains, railroad memorabilia, and a restored Santa Fe caboose. Located right at the Amtrak station so you can watch real trains go by. Perfect short stop for train-obsessed toddlers.
Sonoma TrainTown RR is a toddler-friendly miniature ride in Sonoma, CA. The ride lasts ~20 min + park, costs ~$7.50 for adults and ~$7.50 for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A 10-acre garden-estate railway in Sonoma, operating since 1968. The 20-minute train ride winds through tunnels, past waterfalls, and around a lake in beautifully landscaped grounds. Also features amusement rides and a petting zoo. A delightful family outing for all ages.
South Coast RR Museum is a toddler-friendly miniature and museum train ride in Goleta (SB), CA. The ride lasts ~15 min, costs $5 for adults and $5 for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A museum in Goleta near Santa Barbara featuring historic railroad equipment and model train displays. Offers short caboose rides on select days. Located along the Union Pacific mainline for excellent train-watching. Free admission, donations appreciated.
Sunburst Railbikes is a toddler-friendly unique ride in Santa Paula, CA. The ride lasts ~2 hrs, costs ~$60/bike for adults and Rides w/ adult for children, and children under two ride Rides w/ adult.
A unique railbike experience in Santa Paula where you pedal a custom railbike along railroad tracks through the Heritage Valley. Easy enough for kids to help pedal. A fun, active family adventure along the scenic Santa Clara River valley.
Tilden Park Steam Train is a toddler-friendly miniature and steam train ride in Berkeley, CA. The ride lasts 15–20 min, costs ~$4 for adults and ~$4 for children, and children under two ride Paying.
A miniature live-steam railroad in Tilden Regional Park above Berkeley. The trains are 1/3 scale and pull passengers through the eucalyptus forest for a 1-mile loop. Very affordable (~$3.50) and a beloved East Bay tradition since 1952. Perfect for toddlers. Also has a merry-go-round.
Travel Town Museum is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Los Angeles, CA. The ride lasts 1-2 hrs, costs FREE for adults and FREE for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A free outdoor railroad museum in Griffith Park, LA featuring full-size historic locomotives and cars. Kids can climb into the cabs of giant steam engines. Miniature train rides available for a small fee. Open daily — a train-lover's dream that's completely free.
Western Railway Museum is a toddler-friendly museum and steam train ride in Suisun City, CA. The ride lasts 1-2 hrs, costs $14 for adults and $10 (3+) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A museum in Suisun City featuring historic electric streetcars and interurban trains from across California. Offers rides on a 4-mile section of restored railway through the delta farmlands. Great for kids who love trolleys. Special holiday events throughout the year.
Yosemite Mtn Sugar Pine RR is a toddler-friendly scenic and steam train ride in Fish Camp (Yosemite), CA. The ride lasts ~1 hr, costs ~$30-40 for adults and ~$20-25 (2+) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
A historic railroad at the entrance to Yosemite National Park offering 30-minute train rides through the Sierra Nevada foothills. Operates vintage railcars and steam locomotives seasonally. A perfect warm-up to a Yosemite family trip.
Confirm current schedules, prices, and closures with each operator before traveling.