If you’ve got a train-loving toddler or a railway obsessed kiddo, I’ve rounded up a slew of cool but cozy options that both you and they are going to love. In the below list of eclectic train stays, we’ve got both hotels and vacation rentals represented. You’ll find hot tubs, farm animals, river and mountain views. From luxe to rustic, but all with a mega dose of fun baked in.
A Cute Caboose and Farm Animals
Canajoharie, NY
In upstate New York, you’ll find 50 acres and a whole haul of farm animals near this adorable caboose-and-train-station stay that sleeps up to 6 guests across 3 bedrooms. While the caboose is detached from the “train station,” it sits directly next to it, offering two twin beds. (Don’t worry, the caboose is heated, and station offers radiant heating.) Situated near Mohawk Valley, your family will find mountain views and plenty of nature to explore. [LINK]
Luxe Train Car Suites
Chattanooga, TN
The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo is oozing with luxury and nostalgia that everyone in the family can appreciate. Parents will find a poolside-train-car bar where craft cocktails are shaken, and a vintage vibe that feels downright charming. Sleeper cars only sleep up to 3 guests, but standard guestrooms sleep up to 4 and the cozy train vibes can be felt throughout the whole property. [LINK]
A Riverside Haven with Hot Tub
Cascade, MT
I’m not sure which is better – the river or mountain views? Either way you’re looking, this renovated and restored historic Northern Pacific Railway Post Office train car offers stunning scenery. And inside, it’s a delight, too. A cozy, contemporary style fills the four-room car, which sleeps up to 8. [LINK]
Union Station Hotel
St. Louis, MS
Located right in Downtown West, this historic train station turned hotel gives guests good reason to not want to leave the lobby. The design is spectacular. And between the seven restaurants, seasonal pool, candy shop and ferris wheel, there’s a lot to love about this very resort-feeling stay, which is operated as a part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. [LINK]
A Mod Train Depot
Accord, NY
If modern is your vibe, you’ll geek out over the eclectic design of this reimagined train depot from 1902. Paired with a bright red backyard caboose, it’s a swoonworthy getaway in addition to being your kid’s favorite stay (ever). Amid the eye-candy decor, you’ll find a sleeping-car-inspired bunk room that features four queen beds. [LINK]
A Galveston Galavant
Galveston, TX
Step back in time, and onto the Bonnie Brook Rail Car, a part of the Galveston Museum, where you’ll also find free breakfast, a garden and playground for the kids. You can sleep up to nine in this 1949 rail coach, which was once used by Jackie Gleeson. [LINK]
Smoky Mountain Caboose
Waynesville, NC
With a trickling waterfall within front porch view, this fun caboose sleeps up to four and is just 10 miles from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Offers a unique getaway in a beautifully restored 1926 train caboose, it’s gotten rave reviews from guests. Set amidst rolling hills and scenic views, enjoy upscale amenities like Smart TV and high-speed internet or unwind with an outdoor shower and cooking on the grill. [LINK]
Train Car Guestrooms, Inside the Hotel
Indianapolis, IN
With a train inside the hotel, this Crowne Plaza immediately stands apart. You can sleep up to four guests within these rooms, and in standard rooms too, which can all be found inside this historic train station hotel. It’s location is convenient for exploring all that this Midwest city has to offer, and it consistently ranks top among family travelers. [LINK]
A Final Note: Travel with kids is no easy feat! We’ve taken a baby and a toddler around the world (literally), and these are our tried-and-true favorites among kids travel gear.
