Train tables are timeless toys that encourage problem-solving and cognitive development. These incredible playthings also keep children amused for unusually long periods.
That’s a lot to ask of toys that don’t feature screens, plugs, or batteries. We researched all of the top-selling train tables before selecting our 10 favorites.
Check out our unbiased reviews and top picks for the best train tables of 2021. We hope that these selections will help you stay on track during your next shopping experience!
In this article:
How to choose the best train table
Materials
When it comes to train tables, durable materials are essential. We suggest you buy a table that’s made of sustainably harvested wood, MDF, or hard plastic.
While researching tracks, we found that most plastic tracks were stationary. On the other hand, most wooden and MDF tracks could be altered.
We discovered that preset tracks were more suitable for toddlers. Whereas, preschoolers and older children wanted more creative freedom during playtime.
While materials can have a direct impact on creativity, they also determine the durability and safety of train tables. Enthusiastic tots are likely to crawl on top of their playthings.
As such, it is essential to choose materials that can sustain the weight of a small child.
Age range
Train tables can be enjoyed by children between the ages of 2 and 8 years. You can even extend its use by using it as a Lego table or craft station.
Storage options
We love it when train tables come with large storage drawers. Many children opt to leave their tracks in place. However, a jumbo drawer serves as a great space for extra engines and other loose toys.
Train tables also double as excellent activity spaces. If you have a place to store your train stuff, your little one can use the table for other activities, such as building Legos, coloring pictures, or eating snacks.
Compatible accessories
Many train tables come with train track pieces. Some trains may be used interchangeably with other sets.
Check the track widths and the shape of the joints to determine the compatibility between two sets of tracks. Cost and accessory availability vary between brands.
Size and shape
You’ll want your train table to have a surface big enough to accommodate several train tracks. The table should also be set at a height that can accommodate standing toddlers or kneeling children.
During our research, we found that most train tables were at least 30 inches wide and 50 inches long. The smallest table on our list is just 24 by 34 inches.
This one still has enough room for a figure-eight train track and multiple suspension bridges. Train tables may be anywhere from 10 to 20 inches tall. Low tables are ideal for both standing and kneeling toddlers.
Older children may also use these tables for floor-level play. That said, tables that are 16 to 18 inches tall are better suited for older children.
Train tables should be made from solid panels with blunt corners. This will protect children from harsh bumps.
A raised lip will prevent pieces of track and other accessories from sliding off the sides of the table, while wide, thick legs will prevent it from tipping.
What can a train table teach your children?
Believe it or not, train tables can benefit children! According to NAEYAC, children between the age of 3 and 6 years enjoy solving problems, pretending, and building.
The complex structure of train tracks poses an attractive challenge to preschoolers and older children. At the same time, the World Health Organization has released stringent recommendations for limiting screen times for children under the age of 5.
While tablets and smartphones do a great job of occupying little ones, train tables serve as more age-appropriate alternatives.
Generally speaking, children love trains. Research shows that locomotive play can improve a child’s STEM skills along with their chances of getting a good SAT math score. Yup, looks like all those fake engine sounds could be worth it someday!
Our top picks for the best train tables
Editors choice
Our opinion
Dimensions: 48.8 x 34.4 x 16 inches
Material: Wood
Accessories: 120-piece train set
Age: 36 months – 6 years
Storage: Yes
The incredible KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Table Set (check price on Amazon) comes with over 100 imagination-sparking pieces.
The twisty roller coaster of a train track will provide hours of entertainment.
Meanwhile, there’s also an airstrip and helicopter pad for little ones interested in air travel.
One of the coolest elements is the tunnel-occupied waterfall mountain.
With over 120 accessories and a colorful backdrop, this train table offers endless entertainment.
Its blunt edges, wide legs, and smooth MDF surface have also earned it our parental seal of approval.
And, last but not least, its three plastic storage bins serve as generous, yet discreet, storage spaces!
What we love
- Includes over 120 wooden and plastic accessories
- Boasts a colorful screen-printed landscape
- Three under-the-table storage bins
- Tip-resistant table with T-molded edges
Watch for
- Table and toys require some assembly
Upgrade choice
Our opinion
Dimensions: 46.9 x 32.9 x 26.8 inches
Material: Wood, MDF, metal
Accessories: 100-piece train set
Age: 36 months to 3 years
Storage: Yes
Alas, they’ve created a train table that can accommodate multiple children! This supersized table offers 360 degrees of access.
The KidKraft Metropolis Train Table & Set (check price on Amazon) also comes with 100 accessories, making it a one-stop shopping experience for busy parents.
Expect to spend some time piecing this table together with its accessories, though we guarantee the work’s well worth it when you consider what you’ll be gaining.
If not for the colorful landscape print on the tabletop, this espresso-colored toy would look more like a piece of designer furniture.
The spacious trundle drawer offers an ample amount of storage room.
There’s nothing better than a toy that doubles as its own storage space.
What we love
- Features a sophisticated espresso finish with solid wood frame
- Several wooden accessories, including a two-tier bridge
- Big enough to accommodate multiple children
- 100-piece play set comes with wooden trains, tracks, and other accessories
Watch for
- Some tracks do not stay connected during repetitive play
Best budget buy
Our opinion
Dimensions: 35.5 x 17.5 x 4 inches
Material: Plastic
Accessories: None
Age: 3 years and over
Storage: None
The Simplay3 Carry and Go Train Table (check price on Amazon) offers affordable, portable fun.
This double-walled plastic train table sits directly on the ground.
The legless design does not rock or tip. Better yet, it requires no assembly. You can place it on a table, bed, or ottoman.
It has two sides, one with an obstacle-covered course and another with a figure-eight train track.
The racetrack is wide enough to accommodate two miniature vehicles.
A built-in handle enables you to easily relocate the table.
What we love
- Built-in obstacles for more dynamic races
- Flips over to reveal a second track
- Side handle and lightweight foundation make it convenient to carry
- Can be placed on the ground for comfortable floor-level play
Watch for
- Lacks an aesthetically pleasing design
Best multi-functional train table
Our opinion
Dimensions: 47.6 x 26.6 x 6.7 inches
Material: Plastic
Accessories: Three-piece train
Age: 36 months – 10 years
Storage: Yes
The Step2 Deluxe Canyon Train Table (check price on Amazon) is an excellent option for parents looking to make the most out of a small space.
A rocky canyon is located inside a deep tray.
It has plenty of sloped roadsides and suspended tracks to entertain curious tots.
The table even comes with a three-piece plastic train set.
Not to mention its white hardboard lid doubles as an all-encompassing activity table.
When your little ones are done with their play, they can stash all their locomotives inside the track-covered ravine.
Once the cover is on, the table can serve as a platform for snacks, crafts, and other activities.
What we love
- Comes with a three-piece plastic train set
- Molded track with non-removable suspension bridges
- Flat cover enables you to transform the train table into an activity top
Watch for
- Cold weather causes the plastic pieces to shrink, making it difficult to assemble
Best wooden train table
Our opinion
Dimensions: 48 x 36 x 17 inches
Material: Wood
Accessories: None
Age: Any
Storage: None
This luxurious Sodura Birch Wood Train Table (check price on Amazon) will help you achieve a Pinterest-worthy playroom.
It’s made from thick birch wood, with 3/4″ legs that can handle frequent moves and rambunctious toddlers.
Its large surface can accommodate everything from wooden train sets to arts and crafts projects.
Place a few shallow storage buckets underneath, and you can easily reset the tabletop. The industrial-grade finish contains zero VOCs and is 100% non-toxic.
What we love
- 3/4 inch legs prevent the table from tipping
- White birch with industrial-grade non-toxic finish
- The entire assembly process consists of screwing in a few bolts
- Can be used for multiple activities
Watch for
- Pricey (well worth the investment!)
Best train table with storage
Our opinion
Dimensions: 50 x 32.5 x 16 inches
Material: Wood
Accessories: None
Age: 36 months – 8 years
Storage: Yes
With the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Multi-Activity Play Table (check price on Amazon) we have a multi-use train table with ample amounts of storage.
The table’s wide legs prevent it from tipping.
The durable wooden base and removable panels can handle plenty of use.
A large drawer serves as a perfect storage spot for toys.
Children can use this table as a foundation for their favorite playthings.
Overall, it’s a sleek all-purpose table that’s perfect for trains and other toys!
What we love
- Perfect height for small children
- Tabletop is made from two removable panels
- Large drawer for storing toys
- Suitable for a wide range of activities, not just trains!
Watch for
- Some manufacturing defects have been reported
Our seventh choice
Our opinion
Dimensions: 47.8 x 34.2 x 16 inches
Material: Wood
Additional: 100-piece train set
Age: 36 months – 3 years
Storage: Yes
This massive train table comes with 100 colorful accessories.
KidKraft Ride Around Train Table Set (check price on Amazon) includes everything from an airport runway and helipad to a hospital with an ambulance.
Every corner of this makeshift world encourages your child to explore new worlds and concepts.
A colorfully illustrated surface serves as the perfect backdrop for locomotive action.
Meanwhile, the 360-degree play space encourages group play and sharing.
The kit comes with numerous accessories and it’s also compatible with Thomas & Friends and Brio train sets.
What we love
- Includes 100 colorful train accessories
- Features a colorful illustrated backdrop
- Durable wooden base with tip-resistant legs
- Universal compatibility
Watch for
- Wood veneer chips easily
Best movable train table
Our opinion
Dimensions: 32.8 x 24.8 x 10 inches
Material: Wood
Accessories: 62-piece train set
Age: 36 months – 10 years
Storage: No
Your little conductor will love coursing a path across this little train table.
The Maxim Wooden Train Set with Play Table (check price on Walmart) comes with over 60 accessories, including engines, track pieces, and suspension bridges.
The wooden characters and structures encourage imaginative play.
Since none of the pieces are attached to the surface of the table, you can easily alternate between activities.
The caster wheels make it possible to easily relocate this play station.
What we love
- 62-piece train set works with almost all other wooden railway brands
- Wooden train table on easy-to-move rolling casters
- Play surface can be cleared and used for other engaging activities
- Accessory kit includes toy houses, cars, and street signs
Watch for
- Some track pieces aren’t very stable
Best for girls
Our opinion
Dimensions: 28.7 x 40.4 x 12.6 inches
Material: Wood
Accessories: 59-piece train set
Age: 3 – 8 years
Storage: No
This girl’s train set will pave the way for all her train station adventures.
The Bigjigs Rail Magical Train Table’s (check price on eBay) pastel color palette is a magnificent addition to any young girl’s bedroom.
The table comes with a wooden rail system, engines, carriages, a boat, a heliport, and more.
The table is made from responsibly harvested wood and other child-safe materials.
It’s just the right height for a kneeling child.
This incredible playset will help replace your little one’s screen time with more imaginative activities.
At a glance
- 59-piece set includes pastel engines, fairy figures, and much more
- Bigjigs rails are compatible with most wooden rail systems
- 360-degree play space promotes social development and sharing
- Made from responsibly-sourced materials
Best imaginarium train table
Our opinion
Dimensions: 5.5 x 53.5 x 18.5 inches
Material: Wood
Accessories: None
Age: 36 months – 6 years
Storage: Yes
This wooden railway is dedicated to the world of Thomas & Friends (check price on Walmart).
Vivid color graphics encourage children to enter the Island of Sodor.
The train table depicts images of Trotter’s Farm, the Sodor Slate Quarry, Vicarstown Dieselworks, and more.
Children can use the table as a blank slate for their wooden train tracks. It’s also a great space for other creative activities.
The table includes a small piece of wooden train track that can be used for locomotive storage.
If there’s a die-hard Thomas fan in the family, this table won’t disappoint.
At a glance
- Several colorful depictions of places on the Island of Sodor
- Includes a side-mounted piece of track that doubles as a storage rack
- Made from solid beech wood
- Compatible with Fisher-Price Thomas & Friends railways, engines, and accessories
- Won't handle rough play or little climbers
And our winner is…
The KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Train Table and Toy Set (check price on Amazon) is our top train table pick. It’s made from super-durable MDF and features blunt edges that prevent table damage and child injuries.
The large play surface boasts a colorful silk-screened landscape to spark the imagination of any young child.
This 120-piece train set includes several feet of wooden tracks and dozens of imagination-expanding train table accessories, including a helipad, crane, and miniature buildings.
This table also comes with three red plastic storage bins which slide under the table to maximize play space and eliminate clutter. It’s also surrounded by a 1-inch lip to prevent toys from sliding over the edges.
