Top 5 Train Family Experiences in San Diego
San Diego isn’t just about sunny beaches and world-class theme parks — it’s also home to some of the best family-friendly train rides in Southern California. Whether your kids love miniature steam trains, you’re fascinated by historic locomotives, or you simply want a relaxing ride through scenic parks, these Top 5 Train Family Experiences in San Diego will delight all ages.
From Balboa Park’s charming miniature train to holiday-themed railway adventures, each destination offers a unique way to create lasting memories with your family.
List of Top 5 Train Family Experiences in San Diego
Lets explore each Train Family Experiences in San Diego
in more details.
Balboa Park Miniature Train
Location: Next to San Diego Zoo, 1800 Zoo Pl, San Diego, CA
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 4:30 PM (weather permitting)
Cost: Visit Site, Free for under 1 year
Best for: Toddlers & young kids
Operating since 1948, the Balboa Park Miniature Train is a nostalgic ride for many San Diegans. The scenic half-mile journey winds through shady groves between the San Diego Zoo and the carousel, offering a gentle, family-friendly adventure. The train is perfect for toddlers, and its convenient location near other Balboa Park attractions makes it easy to plan a full day.
- Tip : Pair this ride with a zoo visit or explore nearby playgrounds for a full family outing.
Chula Vista Live Steamers at Rohr Park
Location: Rohr Park, 4548 Sweetwater Rd, Bonita, CA
Hours: 2nd Saturday & Sunday each month, Noon – 2:30 PM
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
Best for: All ages, railway hobbyists
Run by passionate volunteers since 1974, the Chula Vista Live Steamers offers free miniature train rides through scenic Rohr Park. Kids can learn about steam engine mechanics while enjoying a breezy outdoor adventure. After the ride, families can have a picnic, explore playgrounds, or take a stroll along the park’s walking trails.
- Tip : Arrive early as rides can get busy on sunny weekends.
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum
Location: 750 Depot St, Campo, CA
Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, Times vary by event
Cost: Visit Site
Best for: History lovers & older kids
Step into the past at the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum and take a 90-minute historic train ride along the San Diego and Arizona Railway. Choose from regular weekend excursions or special holiday rides like The Bunny Train, Pumpkin Express, and Santa Train North Pole Limited. Inside the museum, explore vintage locomotives and railway memorabilia at various stages of restoration.
- Tip : Book early for holiday rides — they sell out fast.
Poway-Midland Railroad at Old Poway Park
Location: 14134 Midland Rd, Poway, CA
Hours: Saturdays & Sundays (except 2nd Sunday of each month)
Cost: Visit Site
Best for: All ages, weekend family outings
Operated by volunteers, the Poway-Midland Railroad offers rides on a steam locomotive, trolley, or speeder — depending on the weekend. The park features old-fashioned charm with bridges, fountains, and great picnic spots. After your ride, visit the Hamburger Factory for a family meal.
- Tip : Check the monthly schedule to catch the steam train weekends.
LEGOLAND Express Train
Location: Duplo Playtown, LEGOLAND California Resort, 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA
Hours: Daily (included with park admission)
Cost: Visit Site
Best for: Toddlers & LEGO fans
Inside LEGOLAND California, the LEGOLAND Express takes little riders on two laps around a whimsical LEGO farm, complete with brick carrots and corn. There are no height restrictions, but kids under 36 inches must ride with a responsible companion. It’s a gentle ride, perfect for a break between more energetic attractions in the park.
- Tip : Ride in the morning for shorter wait times.
Comparison Table – Top Train Rides for Families in San Diego
|
Attraction |
Location |
Ride Type |
Cost |
Best For |
|
Balboa Park Miniature Train |
Balboa Park |
Miniature train |
Visit Site |
Toddlers & young kids |
|
Chula Vista Live Steamers |
Rohr Park |
Miniature steam |
Free |
All ages |
|
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum |
Campo |
Vintage train |
Visit Site |
History lovers |
|
Poway-Midland Railroad |
Old Poway Park |
Steam/trolley |
Visit Site |
All ages |
|
LEGOLAND Express |
LEGOLAND |
Theme park train |
Visit Site |
Toddlers & LEGO fans |
Final Thoughts
These Top 5 Train Family Experiences in San Diego combine nostalgia, history, and family fun into unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re exploring miniature steam trains, riding through historic railway routes, or enjoying a LEGO-themed journey, San Diego offers plenty of ways to make your next family outing truly special.
