What parent isn’t tired of bending over to pick up the endless assortment of toys on the ground? When it comes to train tracks, you know better than anyone just how messy playtime can get. The sprawling set of rails designed by your child ends up being a hassle for people to walk around, and even worse when it comes time to clean up. However, train tables make this struggle a problem of the past!
- How to Choose the Right Train Table
- Top 10 Best Train Tables for Kids 2023
- 1. Best Overall Train Table: KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Set
- 2. Best Premium Train Table: KidKraft Waterfall Junction Set
- 3. Best Plastic Train Table: Step2 Deluxe Canyon Table
- 4. Most Portable: Melissa & Doug Take-Along Railroad
- 5. Best Budget Train Table: Simplay3 Carry and Go
- 6. Most Multi-Purpose: Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Table
- 7. Best Reversible Train Table: KidKraft 2-In-1 Activity Table
- 8. Best Included Accessories: KidKraft Transportation Station Set
- 9. Easiest to Assemble: KidKraft Adventure Town Railway
- 10. Most Durable: AmazonBasics Wooden Play Table
- Guide to Picking the Perfect Train Table
- Final Thoughts
How to Choose the Right Train Table
Train tables can be a safe way for your child to develop their motor skills and have fun – if you pick the right one. Tables come in many colors, shapes, and sizes, so it can be difficult to find the right train table that is tailored to your little one’s needs.
We’ll first cover the main types of tables, followed by distinguishing features and characteristics to look for when choosing one. Then we’ll show you the best train tables available. If you want more information, you can find it in our full guide below.
Types of Train Tables
The main types of train tables are determined by the material that the table is made out of. There are two major types that you’ll want to search for.
Plastic Train Tables
Plastic train tables are often brightly colored, durable, and easy to move around. They’re the lighter type of train table, and the plastic also tends to have less sharp corners when compared to wood in square tables. This makes it suitable for younger children who aren’t as rowdy as others!
You’ll also notice that plastic train tables won’t mold, which makes them ideal for outdoor use. They’re also water-resistant, whereas wooden train tables won’t be able to withstand natural elements nearly as well.
Wooden Train Tables
Wooden train tables are heavier than their plastic counterparts, and as such, can be more difficult to move it around after you’ve assembled it. However, they can also be sturdier than plastic tables due to their increased weight! They are more prone to getting damaged in an outdoor environment, but they’re a sturdy option for indoors. The more demure aesthetics of wooden tables can also make them a more appealing permanent feature to a nursery or living space.
Hybrid Train Tables
Some train tables are created with a mix of plastic and wood to create gentle edges around the corners with a steady frame for durability. Keep the wooden parts in mind before deciding to set these tables outside – after all, wooden legs can still rot due to humidity.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Train Table
Before you purchase a table, you’ll need to read the specifications to make sure they’re well suited for your child. Different tables may appeal to kids of different ages, sizes, and personalities!
Size
The first thing that stands out when you look for a table would be the initial design. You’ll want to take note of how large it is, how tall it rises above the floor, and the shape that it’s cut in. If you buy a train table that’s too large, you won’t be able to fit it in your living room!
You also don’t want a table to be too tall or short, depending on your child’s play style. If they like to play while sitting, definitely don’t get a table that rises a few feet off the ground. The preferred height may also vary depending on your child’s age or the size of your child’s chairs.
Shape
The shape of the table can lead to different levels of supervision while your child plays. Make sure the corners are blunt so that your child won’t get hurt while they’re playing. Circular tables are best for younger children since there are no harmful corners in the way. Also, search for a table with wide and thick legs so that it won’t tilt over.
Quality Materials
Train tables can get expensive, so you want yours to last for years no matter how rough your child may get with it. Younger and more active children may also want to crawl on top of the train table, so make sure any materials you get can sustain a small child’s weight in addition to remaining durable.
Included Tracks
Some train tables may come with tracks, while others are just a plain table with a raised lip to keep trains from falling off. If you only want to make one purchase, make sure the table you pick comes with a kit of train tracks and wooden trains!
Creativity Factor
One of the biggest things to look for is how much creativity the train table encourages. Kids love to use their imagination while playing, and some tables allow for more free reign than others. Tables may even come with extra buildings or toy helicopters to really get their creative gears going!
Child’s Age
Depending on your child’s age and size, you may want different options. Younger children may want a train table with a built-in track, while older children enjoy the free reign that an empty table and a bucket of tracks offer. Their age and maturity will also impact how roughly they may play with the table, so plan accordingly and purchase one that is durable enough.
Storage Accessibility
Some train tables come with included storage compartments underneath the table so that you’ll have a place to put extra train tracks. If you have a lot of wooden tracks, try to find a table with storage so you won’t have to worry about purchasing drawers on your own.
Now that we’ve gone over the main factors to think about, we can get into our top choices below!
Top 10 Best Train Tables for Kids 2023
1. Best Overall Train Table: KidKraft Waterfall Mountain Set
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: MDF Wood
- Dimensions:75 x 34.4 x 16 inches
- Shape: Rectangular
- Included Toys: Trains, people, and tracks (120 pieces)
The KidKraft waterfall mountain set offers a train table with a twist – in the corner, there’s a mountain with two openings for tracks to go through. It comes with three red storage bins that fit under the table so that your child has a place for extra pieces, and the tabletop itself is decorated with a scene of grass, a lake, and a road.
All corners of the table are blunted to keep kids from getting hurt, and the pieces are individually painted with bright colors to keep your child’s attention. In addition, the 1.5-inch lip is tall enough to keep trains from falling off without getting in the way of play.
However, all the components do take a while to assemble, and you may need anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours to get it set up. You’ll likely need someone else to help as well since assembly will be a two-person job. Depending on their age, it can be a fun activity for you and your child to share.
Notable Features
With tracks that can ascend levels, your child will have hours of fun as they work to maneuver trains up to the correct level and make use of both mountain passageways. In addition, all trains can be connected through magnets, so they can make chains of trains as needed. It also comes with a helicopter landing pad, a runway, and a suspension bridge for them to explore.
Creativity and Fun
This train table comes with over 120 pieces, which can be combined and used for hours of fun and creativity. The tabletop design gives just enough inspiration for them to get started without taking away from their own creativity, and the wooden tracks are a standard size and can be combined with other train sets.
Pros
- Comes with over 120 pieces
- Mountain has two levels for its entryway
- Includes helicopter pad, airport, and lake in the scene
- Comes with three red storage bins
- Corners of the table are blunted and safe
Cons
- Can take up to 2 hours to set up
- Requires a second person to help you assemble the table
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Hybrid
- Dimensions:25 x 34.25 x 26 inches
- Shape: Rounded rectangle
- Included Toys: Trains, tracks, crane, mountain, buildings (112 pieces)
The KidKraft Waterfall set comes with many of the same elements as the waterfall mountain set, but has an additional plastic and textured edge wrapping around the table to avoid injuries. It also comes with four different storage bins that are angled, so you won’t have to slide it out from under the table each time. It’s a comprehensive kit that has all the high-quality accessories you’ll need in addition to the sturdy table.
However, while it does have the plastic outer edge that’s designed like train tracks, it doesn’t include a lip. This means that some toys can end up spilling over the sides if you’re not careful. In addition, while it does come with assembly instructions, this train table requires a bit of time to get fully set up.
Notable Features
In addition to the two-layered mountain that allows for height in your child’s tracks, the set also comes with an ambulance, police car, landing pad, bridge, and more! The storage area, however, is the highlight of this table. Since it has no top, it can carry more than other storage bins, and the angle makes it easy for your child to clean up after or take the pieces out.
Creativity and Fun
The extra 112 pieces that the kit comes with are all well-designed and work to allow your child’s creativity to shine. The tabletop design isn’t constraining, and they can set up any number of scenarios as they rearrange the tracks, characters, and vehicles that come with the package. As with all KidKraft tracks, they’re compatible with many train tracks from other brands as well, which allows for expansion in the future.
Pros
- Comes with 112 pieces
- Includes police cars, ambulances, and other characters
- Rounded plastic edge won’t hurt your child
- The storage area is open and can hold more in the bins
- Mountain has two levels of entrances above the flat table
Cons
- There is no lip on the side of the table
- Assembly can take a lot of time
3. Best Plastic Train Table: Step2 Deluxe Canyon Table
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Plastic
- Dimensions:01 x 25.98 x 15.98 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Included Toys: 3-piece train set
The deluxe canyon table is made from a durable poly construction that’s meant to last years. It has two tracks suspended above gaping chasms below, and it’s sure to entertain your little one as they move the trains over the tracks. The tracks themselves are colored brightly and there’s enough change in elevation for some variation as the train climbs the mountain.
Surprisingly, the table also has a reverse flat side that can double as a play table and area for any other activities. Whether your child wants to color or assemble a puzzle, the flat surface gives your child ample space to play. It’s also much easier to assemble when compared to wooden tables.
Notable Features
While this table doesn’t come with a specific storage area, the chasms are deep and meant to hold all of their trains when they’re not playing. The flip side is white and blends in with décor easily while acting as a play space for your child. It’s also laminated which makes it a good surface for playdough.
Creativity and Fun
This plastic train table is bright and colorful and is sure to make your little one smile as they play. With the gaping chasm and suspension bridges built into the table directly, you’ll never have to worry about it breaking either. Unfortunately, since the tracks are already constructed, you won’t be able to assemble your own tracks.
Pros
- Two raised brides above the chasm
- Colorful rail and track designs
- Don’t have to worry about tracks breaking
- The second side contains a laminated flat surface as a play area
- Easier to assemble than traditional wooden tables
Cons
- Pre-built train tracks may stifle creativity
- Doesn’t have an actual storage area
- Only comes with 3 plastic trains as accessories
4. Most Portable: Melissa & Doug Take-Along Railroad
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Wooden
- Dimensions: 11 x 2.6 x 15.4 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Included Toys: Wooden trains, built-in tracks, buildings, and scenery
While it’s not as large as traditional train tables, this small kit is perfect for on-the-go playing, whether your child is in the car or on vacation with the family! The tracks are engraved into the wooden board, and they’ll be able to drive wooden trains over the scenery displayed. This is a good choice for younger kids who want to play with trains but can’t build their own railways yet.
Notable Features
This table is small enough to fold in half, so you can carry it with you easily by the handles. In addition, it comes with a 17 piece set of accessories, ranging from trains to a gondola and trees! However, keep in mind that this table is also smaller than many other train tables, and doesn’t have a lip on the edge to keep all the toys on the board.
Creativity and Fun
While this train kit isn’t as decked out as the KidKraft adventure town railway, there’s still enough toys and painted scenes to spark their creativity and enthusiasm. However, because the tracks are engraved on the board, this isn’t as versatile since kids can’t assemble their own tracks.
Pros
- Handles make it easy to carry
- Comes with a 17-piece accessory set
- Painted scenes and arches to move trains through
- Engraved tracks on the board are fun to move trains on
- Suitable for younger children who can’t assemble tracks
Cons
- Smaller than other train tables
- Does not have a lip on the edges of the table
- Cannot assemble your own tracks on this table
5. Best Budget Train Table: Simplay3 Carry and Go
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Plastic
- Dimensions:5 x 17.5 x 4 inches
- Shape: Rounded rectangle
- Included Toys: N/A
If you’re looking for a reliable budget option, the Simplay3 train table checks all the boxes! It has two reversible sides with different tracks, with some suitable for toy cars and others suitable for toy trains. It’s made from durable plastic and lasts a long time despite its low price.
In addition, since it is just the tabletop and made of plastic, it’s easy to carry and transport if you need to take it with you on the go (especially with the included handle). It’s also the only table on the list that doesn’t require assembly!
Keep in mind that it doesn’t include any toys, so you’ll have to purchase trains and cars separately.
Notable Features
Both sides of this set come with their own custom scenarios, with overlapping tracks for the trains and a race track for the cars. The race track also has speed bumps which provide more tactile stimulation for your child. On the other side, the train tracks loop around a lake and a quarry painted on the design.
Creativity and Fun
Unfortunately, while the two different sides do provide your child with two scenarios, they won’t be able to get as creative as they would with the KidKraft waterfall mountain set. The tracks are already built into the model, so they can’t lay down their own tracks. However, for younger children who aren’t as patient, this is a good option.
Pros
- Affordable train table
- Two sides of tracks to play on
- No assembly required
- Lightweight and includes a handle for carrying
- The race track has textured speed bumps
Cons
- Cannot lay your own tracks
- Doesn’t come with trains or cars
- Less creative options
6. Most Multi-Purpose: Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Table
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Wooden
- Dimensions:75 x 33 x 50 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Included Toys: N/A
The Melissa & Doug wooden table comes with a slightly raised lip and a jumbo storage drawer to suit all of your child’s train track needs. This isn’t specifically designed for use as a train table, but it certainly does the job well.
While it doesn’t come with any accessories, the large open surface is perfect for your child to create anything they’d like! However, keep in mind that the corners of the table are not blunted, so younger children may get hurt when playing around it.
Notable Features
This wooden table was designed to make parent’s lives easier. The drawer comes in a larger size to fit all the track tracks and puzzle pieces you need. In addition, the top panels of the tabletop can be removed for you to clean and vacuum below, without having to move the entire table. It’s also created from real wool, and the design of the legs makes sure it stays sturdy.
Creativity and Fun
With quite literally a blank slate, your child can do anything they want on this tabletop, from doing puzzles to building train tracks. It doesn’t have scenes already painted on, but the flat, empty surface can be used to create any number of scenarios, or for you to buy a playmat with designs to lay on the table.
However, it also doesn’t come with any extra accessories and toys like the KidKraft waterfall junction set, so your child may not be as inspired.
Pros
- A large flat area can be suited as a versatile play area
- Removable panels make it easy to clean
- Jumbo storage drawer can fit many toys
- Created from real, quality wood
- The design of the legs makes the table sturdy
Cons
- The boring tabletop design may not be as inspiring
- Does not come with any accessories
- Corners of the table are not as blunted as other tables
7. Best Reversible Train Table: KidKraft 2-In-1 Activity Table
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Hybrid
- Dimensions: 5 x 24 x 3.25 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Included Toys: 30 piece train set and 200 piece LEGO-compatible set
The KidKraft 2-in-1 activity table has two different sides for play just like the Simplay3 Carry and Go table. The corners of the table are rounded to prevent injuries, and the top is large enough for many kids to play together.
Notable Features
The biggest feature of this train table would be its dual-sided function. Kids can build the included LEGO-style houses on one side, and flip to arranging train tracks on the other! In addition, the entire top lifts off to reveal the storage underneath. However, the included train set is very basic so it’s not as suitable for older kids.
Creativity and Fun
When it comes to creativity, both sides of the table really shine. The train tracks have their own scene painted on the table that makes it easy to interpret and use, while the LEGO-style board is large enough for any of their building creations! Kids can explore even more when they play with this train table.
Pros
- The reversible side provides twice as much fun
- Comes with LEGO-compatible and train track pieces
- Rounded corners prevent injuries
- The storage area is underneath the tabletop
Cons
- Included train kit is very basic
- Not as suitable for older kids
8. Best Included Accessories: KidKraft Transportation Station Set
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Hybrid
- Dimensions: 25 x 26.75 x 26.25 inches
- Shape: Rounded square
- Included Toys: Two tracks, crane lifts, other vehicles, trains, and a deluxe airport
While the KidKraft transportation station doesn’t come with the most accessories, it does provide the best-designed ones. The only thing it seems to be missing would be storage units, which its counterpart, the KidKraft waterfall junction set, includes. The edge of the table is also covered in textured and rounded plastic to keep injuries from occurring.
Notable Features
This train set comes with a raised airport station to provide height for the tracks, with a second track looping around the entire table. The crane fully functions to lift tracks off the ground, and the toy characters can move up and down the escalators to get to the airport hub and onto the next train.
Creativity and Fun
The escalators and characters included all add to the fun your child might have with this table. However, it does limit them as well, since they’ll be confined to this one scenario of airports and transportation systems – as that’s the way the set was designed.
Pros
- Includes an airport with escalators and characters
- Comes with an outer track that loops around the table
- Crane fully functions and can lift tracks
- Edges are rounded and textured to make it safer for your child
Cons
- Does not come with storage drawers
- Limited to the scenario of airports and transportation
9. Easiest to Assemble: KidKraft Adventure Town Railway
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Hybrid
- Dimensions:5 x 31 x 21.1 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Included Toys: Trains, tracks, characters, and more (120 pieces)
The KidKraft adventure town railway comes fully furnished with all sorts of buildings, mountains, and tracks for your child to explore and play with. Best of all, all these extra accessories don’t mean extra work for you. While train tables can take an hour or two to fully set up, this table can fold in and out for an assembly time that only takes minutes!
Notable Features
Aside from the folding table, this train set also comes with two storage bins that fit under for you to collect all the tracks. Unfortunately, the tracks can come loose and the table chips over time, so it’s not as durable as something like the AmazonBasics train table. The corners of the table are also not rounded.
Creativity and Fun
With so many included accessories and scenes, your child is sure to have a blast while they play. In addition, the painted scenery features a road, a mountain, and even a lake for your child to explore, making sure they have a blast as they set up tracks on this table. Like many other KidKraft options, it engages your little one and inspires their creative side.
Pros
- Table only takes a few minutes to set up
- Comes with two storage bins
- Comes with tracks, characters, and scenery toys
- Includes a total of 120 accessories
Cons
- Corners are not rounded
- Tracks get loose over time
- Not as durable as other train tables
10. Most Durable: AmazonBasics Wooden Play Table
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Type: Wooden
- Dimensions: 50 x 32.5 x 16 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Included Toys: N/A
The AmazonBasics train table comes with, well, the basics – a small storage area, a raised lip to keep toys on the table, and a large flat surface for kids to build on. The sides are not painted, and it rises only 16 inches above the ground in comfortable reach for kids.
It’s made from genuine wood as well, and one of the most durable tables on the list due to its no-frills design. Keep in mind that the corners are not that rounded, so younger children may get hurt without supervision.
Notable Features
While it doesn’t come with any accessories, it does have removable surface panels just like the Melissa & Doug train table. However, the storage drawer is significantly smaller than that of the previously mentioned table.
Creativity and Fun
Just like with other blank tables, your child will be able to create and build to their heart’s content with no limitations. However, due to the lack of painted scenery and included toys, it can be uninspiring for some children who enjoy more decorated tabletops.
Pros
- Has removable surface panels
- Provides a large, empty area for building
- Durable and sturdy construction of the table
- Created from real wood
Cons
- Corners are not rounded
- The storage drawer is small
- Comes with no accessories or tracks
Guide to Picking the Perfect Train Table
When it comes to train tables, there’s no lack of options. Seeing all the different designs can leave you unsure which might be best for you, so this guide is here to help.
Below, we’ll delve into all the benefits they offer, what to look for when purchasing, and how to get the most use out of a train table! If you want an overview of the main features in train tables, you may want to check out the shorter guide above.
Benefits of Train Tables
All train tables offer an assortment of benefits. From easier clean-ups to fostering independence, they can be a valuable and fun addition to a burgeoning household.
Keep Train Sets Safe
Before purchasing a train table, you’ll find tracks strewn all around the house rather than being in the play area. It can be easy to lose small pieces of train sets that you’ve bought or toy pieces that may accompany those sets. By choosing a train table with a lip on the outer edge and storage units (such as this waterfall mountain set), you’ll be able to finally keep track of all the parts for your little one to play with.
No Clean Ups Needed
The worst part of train sets is the inevitable clean up that comes with it. No matter how proud your child may be from their sprawling railway line, you just can’t get into the kitchen with the tracks covering the hallway!
This also means they won’t have to rebuild the tracks and railway system from scratch each time. It encourages them to improve on what they’ve already created and work to develop even more complex systems each time they return.
Once you get a train table, your child can leave their creations built where it’s out the way for everyone else. Lots of tables come with good storage systems, for example the KidKraft waterfall junction set.
Independence Through Play and Discovery
The train table is an area where your child has full control over what happens. By allowing them to take care of this table as their own, they’ll be able to develop a sense of responsibility and independence as they play with it and create and maintain their own space. Train tables can do much more than just keep them busy for a few hours!
Increased Socialization Opportunities
These tables are often big enough for others to join your child as they build. Whether their siblings want to play with them, or if you’re their next assistant for their railway system, the table encourages more socialization as they play. The KidKraft 2-in-1 train table is designed to be large enough just for this!
What Children Learn From These Tables
It may be surprising, but according to the NAEYAC, kids love playing with puzzles and toys that require them to move things. Train tables and train tracks accomplish just that, since they’ll be able to link pieces together and create the tracks that they want.
In addition, all the playing around with trains has been shown to improve your child’s spatial reasoning – which is directly correlated with higher SAT scores in the future. Playing around with a train set starts training their mind with logic and reasoning, and a train table makes playtime easier for the child and the parent.
Choosing the Right Accessories
One of the biggest things to look for is the accessories that a train table may come with. If the table of your child doesn’t include accessories, you’ll want to make a few purchases of your own on the side. Below, we cover the biggest things to keep an eye on.
We also have a whole article devoted to the best train toys for kids that you can read if you’re looking to populate a blank table or to add to your existing sets.
Train Tracks
Train tracks are the most important accessory that may come with a train table since they make up the majority of play for your little one. Look for tracks that are complex enough to encourage more creativity and thinking.
However, make sure you get tracks that are appropriate for your child’s age. Younger children may not be able to play with bridges and raised train tracks as well, while older children may like constructing bridges for tracks to go over and under. The better the tracks, the more enjoyment your child will get out of their new train table.
Toy Pieces
Train tables can come with various toy pieces, from characters to buildings to other car designs. The more variety in pieces there are, the easier it’ll be for your child to create vivid scenarios while they’re exploring and playing. Make sure all extra toy pieces are made of safe materials since younger children may want to chew on them.
Tabletop Design
Depending on your child, getting a table with a design already on it may or may not work. While designs can offer a starting point for your child, some designs may limit creativity (especially if it already has roads and railways painted on).
Get a design that encourages your child to think outside the box, or purchase a few playmats to lay on top of the table for the same effect! If you think they’d prefer a table with no design on it, we would recommend the Melissa & Doug train table.
Ways to Use a Train Table
Some tables come with two sides for you to flip over, and others are capable of being converted into a general play area for your child rather than just as a train table. Below are some of the best ways for you to get more use out of the table.
- Set up train set railways and designs
- Use it for other play activities (such as playdough)
- If the table has a lip, use it as a storage area for other toys
- If the table is flat, it could double as a desk
Assembling a Train Table
Train tables are quite large, so assembly can be a hassle if you’re not prepared. For wooden tables, you’ll want to make sure you have screwdrivers on hand! Be prepared to spend about an hour getting it initially set up, since you may need to screw in an assortment of panels and legs to create a fully functioning table.
Typically, you’ll start by setting up the frame of the table, which includes the legs and the support system for the top. Plastic train tables may only need you to pop a few pieces into play, but you’ll often have to get your screwdriver and nails for wooden tables. The top of the table will normally be screwed on last. Keep in mind that once the table is fully assembled, it becomes harder to move and take apart.
Some tables that come with extra toys and parts may require extra assembly (such as bridges or mountains), so keep that in mind before making your purchase. If you don’t have much time on your hands, you may want to go with a simpler table setup that requires less work on your hands. Our favorite table for easy assembly would be the KidKraft adventure town railway.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to train tables, you’ll want the best of the best for your child! It’s a great way to keep them entertained designing their next metropolis while you take a break from clean up duty. Train tables are the perfect way to help increase your child’s creativity and enthusiasm for playtime without adding on to all the work you have to do as a parent.