10 Best Train Sets 2026 in the United States

The BRIO World Deluxe Railway Set is a well-regarded wooden train set designed primarily for children aged 3 and up. It uses a classic wooden scale and track type, which is great for young kids because the pieces are easy to handle and safe. The set includes both passenger and freight trains, along with stations and various accessories, offering plenty of options to spark imaginative play. Power supply is simple, relying on two small LR44 batteries included with the set, which power some interactive features without complicated setup.

Durability is a strong point here — the set is made from sustainable, high-quality wood that holds up well to rough play and is easy to clean. This makes it a smart choice for parents who want a lasting toy that can grow with their child. The product’s safety is also carefully considered, with BRIO testing to ensure it meets rigorous standards. Because it is a wooden set, it doesn’t include electric or high-speed trains like some other train sets might, which could limit interest for older kids seeking more advanced features.

The track size is fixed to fit the wooden pieces, so it might not be compatible with other train brands or scales. This train set is ideal for younger children who enjoy hands-on, creative play and for parents who value durable, safe, and environmentally friendly toys. Those looking for high-tech or large-scale model train experiences may want to explore other options.

The BRIO World Railway World Deluxe Set is a well-loved wooden train set designed mainly for young children ages 3 and up. It uses a classic wooden track system, which is compatible with most other wooden train sets, making it easy to expand and customize your play area. The set includes 106 pieces such as tracks, vehicles, a bridge, and various accessories, offering plenty of options to build cities, bridges, and more. While the exact scale isn’t specified, wooden train sets like this usually focus on play and imagination rather than precise scale modeling.

Power comes from 6 included LR44 batteries that run electronic elements, adding some interactive features without complicated wiring. Durability is a strong point here, as the set is made from FSC-certified sustainable wood, designed to last through rough play and easy to clean. Safety is also a priority, with BRIO conducting thorough testing to ensure the set meets high standards, making it a reliable choice for younger kids.

One consideration is that this set is quite large and heavy, which might require ample play space and some storage effort. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more realistic or electric model train experience, this wooden set emphasizes imaginative play rather than detailed train simulation. This BRIO train set is a great option for families wanting a sturdy, safe, and expandable wooden railway that supports creative storytelling and cooperative play in younger children.

The LEGO City Explorers' Arctic Polar Express Train Set is a fun and interactive option for kids aged 7 and up who enjoy building and imaginative play. While LEGO doesn't specify a traditional model train scale or a separate track system, this set includes a motorized snowplow locomotive and two cars that run on a specialized track integrated into the play environment, making it more of a themed LEGO build than a classic train set compatible with standard model train tracks.

The train is powered by 6 AAA batteries and controlled via remote or the LEGO Powered Up app, adding modern convenience and encouraging tech interaction without complexity. This set shines in its included accessories—six detailed minifigures, Arctic fox figures, a mountain tunnel with a rockfall feature, a research outpost, mining cave, snow tractor, and a zip line—which create an immersive Arctic exploration experience. Durability is typical for LEGO products: sturdy plastic bricks designed to withstand active play and frequent assembly.

The need for multiple batteries and the reliance on a remote or app may require some adult help initially. This set suits kids who enjoy storytelling and building more than strict model train operation, providing a creative mix of play and learning. For those seeking a traditional train set with standard tracks and a focus on train realism, this is more of a themed LEGO adventure rather than a conventional train hobbyist’s choice.