10 Best Toy Train Sets 2025 in the United States

The Tiny Land Train Set is a versatile and engaging toy option for kids aged 3 to 8. With 110 pieces, including wooden train tracks, building blocks, and puzzles, it offers a variety of ways to play and encourages creativity and teamwork for up to three children. The set stands out with its additional features like puzzles and a fishing game, which add extra layers of fun and educational value by promoting logical thinking and fine motor skills.

The themed blocks, allowing kids to build a town with a hospital, fire station, and more, further stimulate imagination and role-play activities. Another advantage is that the set is compatible with other major train brands, making it easy to expand over time without needing to buy entirely new sets. Safety is a top priority for Tiny Land, with the set being tested to meet strict safety standards and certified as non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals like BPA and lead. This makes it a reassuring choice for parents concerned about their child’s safety.

It’s worth noting that this train set does not include any powered elements, which may limit the excitement for some older kids who might prefer motorized trains. Additionally, while the wooden material is durable, it may not withstand very rough play as well as plastic alternatives. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Tiny Land Train Set excels in providing a safe, imaginative, and interactive play experience for young children.

The LEGO City Express Passenger Train Set is designed for children aged 7 and up, making it appropriate for relatively younger enthusiasts. It features a remote-controlled bullet locomotive with working, dimmable headlights, enhancing the play experience. The set includes 24 track pieces, offering a decent layout for imaginative play. The train comprises a restaurant car and passenger coach, along with a station platform and six minifigures, allowing for varied role-playing scenarios.

The inclusion of the LEGO Powered Up technology, which enables control via a remote or smart device, adds a modern twist to traditional train sets. However, it might require some technical assistance for younger users to set up the app on smart devices. The set employs durable LEGO materials that are known for their longevity and sturdiness.

Conversely, the 24 track pieces might limit the complexity of the layout for older or more advanced users seeking more intricate designs. The train scale and size are compact, which is suitable for indoor play but might not appeal to those looking for larger, more realistic train models. Additionally, while the headlights and remote control features are engaging, there are few additional features like sound effects or automated operations that some high-end train sets offer. In conclusion, this train set is a solid choice for younger children and LEGO fans who appreciate hands-on building and remote control play, but it may fall short for those desiring a more sophisticated or expandable train system.

The BRIO World – 36104 Dinosaur Deluxe Set is a 44-piece toy train set designed for children ages 3 years and up. Its age appropriateness is well-suited for young children, making it a great starter set. The included 8 playful dinosaurs with movable limbs and classic BRIO magnets add an exciting and interactive element to the play experience. The set includes a volcano that erupts with lights, sounds, and steam effects, which can captivate children's imaginations and encourage creative storytelling and role play. The handy storage box that unfolds into a play mat helps keep playtime organized and adds to the immersive experience.

The set is crafted using high-quality plastics, FSC-certified European beech wood, and fine metal details, ensuring durability and safety. The set's various elements encourage fine motor skill development. However, one potential drawback is the requirement of one AA battery for the volcano feature, which may require frequent replacements. Additionally, the set's size and weight might make it less portable for some users.

Despite these minor issues, the BRIO World – 36104 Dinosaur Deluxe Set is a fun and durable option for young children who love dinosaurs and trains.