10 Best Toy Train Sets 2026 in the United States

The LEGO City Explorers' Arctic Polar Express Train Set is a fun and engaging toy designed for children aged 7 and up. Its remote-controlled motorized train and detailed Arctic-themed accessories like a snowplow locomotive, research station, and explorer minifigures create an immersive play experience that encourages creativity and imaginative storytelling. The train measures about 27.5 inches long, which is a good size for play without being too bulky. It uses 6 AAA batteries and can be controlled with a remote or a smart device app, adding interactive options that kids will enjoy.

The set includes fun features like a mountain tunnel with a rockfall effect and a zip line, making the play more dynamic. Made from durable LEGO bricks, the train and accessories can withstand regular play and also connect with other LEGO City sets for expanded adventures. The requirement for multiple batteries may add to ongoing costs, and the set’s complexity with over 1,500 pieces might be challenging for younger or less experienced builders.

Additionally, there is no traditional train track included, so the set focuses more on imaginative play than realistic train layouts. This makes it best suited for kids who enjoy building detailed models and interactive play rather than those looking for a classic track-based train experience.

The Lionel Battery-Operated Polar Express Toy Train Set is designed for children aged 4 and up, making it a great choice for young kids who want an engaging and magical train experience. The set includes a battery-powered locomotive with authentic sounds, lights, and a water-vapor smoke effect, adding a fun and realistic touch that kids often enjoy. Its track system is made of durable plastic and lets you build three different layouts, providing variety and encouraging creativity.

The train cars and locomotive are sized well for small hands, and the set weighs about 8 pounds, which is manageable for storage and play. Power comes from six C cell batteries (not included), so you’ll need to keep spares handy, and some adult assembly is required before play. The Bluetooth control option offers a modern way to operate the train, but the traditional switch is available too, which is simple for kids to use. While the plastic track isn’t as sturdy as wood or metal, it’s durable enough for young children.

This set blends classic train play with interactive features, making it a strong pick for families looking for a festive and entertaining toy train experience.

The LEGO City Downtown Streetcar and Station Train Set is designed for children aged 7 and up, making it suitable for school-aged kids who enjoy building and imaginative play. This set includes a streetcar, a station with a passenger platform, and a coffee shop, as well as six minifigures and a guide dog, which adds to its interactive play value. The streetcar is 10 cm high, 53 cm long, and 5 cm wide, offering a moderate size that's easy for kids to handle and play with.

The build does not require any power source, as it relies on manual assembly and play, which may appeal to parents looking to limit screen time and electronic toys. Constructed from LEGO's high-quality plastic bricks, it ensures durability and long-lasting play, and it can be easily integrated with other LEGO sets for extended play options. While it doesn't feature a traditional train track, the set includes bridging plates for boarding, enhancing the realistic feel of a streetcar system.

Some potential drawbacks include the absence of an actual track system, which may not meet the expectations of those specifically looking for a traditional toy train set experience. Additionally, it may not be as engaging for older children or teens seeking more complex and motorized train sets. However, its focus on pretend play and creativity makes it a strong contender for younger children and LEGO enthusiasts who enjoy constructing and role-playing in a city environment.