Train of Thought
Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains
Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave.
Now through Jan. 5, 2026. Open Daily 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.
Free for Members or included with admission.
More at www.cincymuseum.org/holiday-junction.
It’s that time of year, when I’m constantly looking for ways to keep the holiday magic alive for the kids without actually having to freeze outside in the cold.
Looking for a warm adventure, we bundled everyone up and headed to Union Terminal to check out Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains. As a mom of two littles, Rose (2) and Ruby (8 months) finding an indoor activity that entertains both a toddler and a baby is tricky, but this turned out to be the perfect morning.
From the moment we walked in, the girls were hooked. We started out playing with the interactive snow projection, which was a huge hit. Rose got right to work "building" snowmen, and honestly, I think she would have been happy staying there all day! But the sound of distant train whistles beckoned us further in.
This year marks the 79th season of the Duke Energy Holiday Trains, and the display is just spectacular. Before we even got to the main event, Rose was enchanted by the little toy trains and tracks set up for the kids to play with. It was the perfect warm-up. When we moved to the big train exhibit, Rose was absolutely mesmerized. The layout features over 300 rail cars and 50 locomotives, and seeing it through my daughter's eyes was the best part. Even 8-month-old Ruby was in on the fun! She loved watching the trains zoom by and perked up every time she heard the steam whistles and bells.
We spent a good 20 minutes just soaking it all in. Rose was running from spot to spot, pointing out tiny snowmen and the little presents carried by the trains. We even spotted a model train set that was over 100 years old! There is so much history wrapped up in this exhibit, yet it feels brand new to the kids every time.
Of course, we had to visit the Big Man himself.
Yes, Santa Claus is in the building! He’s set up by a cozy fireplace in the Ruthven Gallery, waiting to hear holiday wishes. I was a little nervous because, toddlers. But this year was a success! Rose was very timid, but there were no tears (a major upgrade from last year!). She managed to tell Santa she wanted an Elsa and Anna doll, and we wished him a Merry Christmas. Ruby was fascinated by Santa’s beard—I was holding my breath, hoping she wouldn't yank it like she does with my husband’s beard, but she kept her hands to herself!
Just when we thought the fun was over, we hit Brickopolis on the way out. This is a massive LEGO display featuring a metropolis with running trains and funny little scenes. Rose decided right then and there that she loves LEGOS (something she has never shown any interest in before that moment.) We spent another 10 minutes making little LEGO towers before we finally peeled ourselves away to head to the exit.
The sign of a truly successful outing? Once we were in the car, both girls were napping within minutes, dreaming of trains and twinkling lights. If you need a fun spot to get the wiggles out and soak up some holiday cheer, definitely add Holiday Junction to your list!
– Shae Huth