7 Fun Boston Train Rides & Activities

Erin P.:  The museum is housed in a restored 1903 train station, which used to serve passengers on the New Haven Railroad's Berkshire Line. They feature an authentic railroad block system to show how trains were able to move safely in the days before radio communication. You can also check out their collection of vintage railroad equipment in the yard. They offer family-friendly scenic train rides between North Adams and Adams.

Cost: Adults $20.00 and Youth (4-14) $16.00

Erin P.:  The Bay State Model Railroad Museum has been in existence since 1968. They feature model trains in H, HO, and N scales. Their goal is to chronicle life in North America in a time before superhighways and air travel changed the landscape. They provide a space for model railroaders to build and run layouts. They also offer two open houses each year to educate the public on model railroads and the history of the train system in the U.S. The open houses are held the first weekend in December and the first weekend in March.

Cost: $5/Adults and $3 /Children (5 - 12)

Amanda Banta:  Boston's South Station is one of the busiest spots in town. On a daily basis thousands of commuters, travelers and visitors weave in, out and through of the train terminal, which is home to Amtrak, the subway and the commuter rail. Take a free tour and learn about the architecture of the building, the history of the station and the railroad system, and what's ahead in the future. Grab lunch at one of the station's eateries and sit among the bustle of the travelers, which my boys love to do whenever we take the train into Boston!

Cost: Free.

Erin P.:  The South Shore Model Railway Club was founded in 1938 and is one of the oldest model railroad clubs in the U.S. They have four events each year, in which the public is invited to come and see the trains. The Open Houses include the club's permanent layout as well as visiting layouts from other clubs. Scout & Family Night will have a model train information table and a large operating layout (you do not need to be a Scout to attend). Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.

Cost: $2-$5/person, Free for children 4 & under

Erin P.:  Thomas Land is an 11.5-acre wonderland for Thomas the Train-loving tots and their families. The Island of Sodor comes to life with familiar landmarks, including Knapford Station and Tidmouth Sheds. There are 11 themed rides as well as the opportunity to meet some favorite characters, such as Cranky the Crane and Sir Topham Hat! There is also a live stage show and the park includes plenty of shopping and dining options.

Cost: $35-$37

Erin P.:  The Train Gallery at the Wenham Museum is a fantastic destination for all levels of train lovers! They have 10 operating model train layouts with 21 trains. Little ones will love that they can make the trains move with the push of a button. More serious train enthusiasts might be impressed to know that their collection includes trains in G, O, HO, N, and Z gauges! Other displays include railroad artifacts, large-scale models and antique toy trains. Bring your questions because model train and railroad experts will be on hand to answer them!

Cost: $10/Adults and $8/Children (1 – 16)

Erin P.:  The Chatham Railroad Museum is located in a restored 1887 train depot. The museum features hundreds of exhibits, including model locomotives from the 1939 New York World's Fair. Kids will love exploring the fully-restored (including an audio system that features real sounds of a train rolling down the tracks and whistles blowing!) red caboose!

Cost: Free; Donations appreciated.