Train Rides Explorer lists 10 train rides in Illinois. Compare the practical details families need before planning a visit.
Atlas Express Train at Lincoln Park Zoo is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in 2204 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL. The ride lasts ~5 min loop, costs ~$4 per ride (zoo is FREE) for adults and ~$4 per ride for children, and children under two ride FREE.
Children's train ride at West Gate entrance of Lincoln Park Zoo. Zoo admission is FREE (one of few free major zoos). Short loop perfect for toddlers. Combine with 35-acre zoo featuring 200+ species. Carousel also available. Easy downtown Chicago visit.
Brookfield Zoo Motorized Safari Train is a toddler-friendly zoo ride in 8400 31st St, Brookfield, IL. The ride lasts ~15–20 min loop, costs ~$5 per ride (+ zoo admission $29.95) for adults and ~$5 per ride (+ zoo admission $20.95 ages 3-11) for children, and children under two ride FREE (zoo + train).
Motorized train circles the 235-acre Brookfield Zoo. Great overview of zoo exhibits. Separate ticket from zoo admission. Also has carousel and other rides. One of largest zoos in the US with 2,500+ animals. Accessible from Chicago via Metra.
Chicago Holiday Train (CTA 'L' Holiday Train) is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Chicago, IL (entire 'L' system), IL. The ride lasts Ride as long as you like ($5 day pass), costs $5 day pass for unlimited rides for adults and $5 day pass (or free under 7 w/ adult) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
Seasonally decorated CTA 'L' train with holiday lights inside and out, plus Santa on board some trips. Runs on a published schedule across the system. Kids love riding the train through the Loop. Regular CTA fare applies — get a day pass. Check CTA website for schedule.
Fox River Trolley Museum is a toddler-friendly scenic, streetcar and museum train ride in South Elgin, IL. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A museum dedicated to preserving the history of electric railways in northern Illinois. Offers operating vintage trolley rides along the scenic Fox River.
Illinois Railway Museum is a toddler-friendly museum ride in Union, IL. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
The largest railway museum in the United States, located in Union, Illinois. Features hundreds of historic equipment pieces and offers train rides on a 5-mile mainline.
Kiddieland Miniature Train (Miller Meadows) is a toddler-friendly scenic and miniature train ride in Bensenville, IL (suburban Chicago), IL. The ride lasts ~10-15 min loop, costs ~$4 per ride for adults and ~$4 per ride for children, and children under two ride FREE (with paying adult).
Charming miniature train ride in Miller Meadows Forest Preserve. Inexpensive family activity in Chicago's western suburbs. Small gauge train through parkland. Part of DuPage County Forest Preserve system. Combine with picnic. Very toddler-friendly and affordable.
Monticello Railway Museum is a toddler-friendly steam, scenic and museum train ride in Monticello, IL. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A museum in Monticello, Illinois offering train rides through the countryside. Features vintage diesel and steam locomotives with special events throughout the year.
Naperville Trolley is a toddler-friendly scenic and streetcar train ride in 301 W Washington St, Naperville, IL. The ride lasts ~30 min loop, costs ~$2 for adults and ~$1 for children, and children under two ride FREE.
Historic replica trolley running through downtown Naperville along the Riverwalk. Very inexpensive at just $2. Runs weekends May-Oct. Combine with Naperville Riverwalk, parks, and family restaurants. Stroller accessible. Fun cheap activity for train-loving toddlers.
Pioneer Zephyr (Museum of Science & Industry) is a toddler-friendly museum ride in 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL. The ride lasts Self-guided (~15-30 min), costs Included w/ museum admission ($25.95) for adults and Included w/ museum admission ($19.95 ages 3-11) for children, and children under two ride FREE.
Historic Burlington Zephyr streamliner train that visitors can board and explore at MSI. The original 1934 Pioneer Zephyr — a landmark in streamlined rail design. Also features The Great Train Story, a 3,500 sq ft HO-scale model railroad. Museum is huge — plan half-day.
Silver Creek & Stephenson Railroad is a toddler-friendly scenic ride in Freeport, IL. The ride lasts an unspecified amount of time, costs an unspecified amount for adults.
A heritage railroad in Freeport, Illinois offering scenic train rides through Stephenson County. Features vintage diesel locomotives and seasonal special events for families.
Confirm current schedules, prices, and closures with each operator before traveling.