Are you obsessed with all things trains? No matter what your age, there’s something exciting about diving into the history of locomotives or stepping aboard a steam engine. Trains have played an important role in the development of Detroit and its surrounding areas, so there’s plenty of fun to be had for railroad enthusiasts throughout the area. All aboard for this train-themed trip around Detroit.

To access an adjustable map of our route, click here.

1. Southern Michigan Railroad

Kick off your journey with a bonafide train ride at Southern Michigan Railroad, which offers a variety of experiences throughout the year. Whether you’re hopping aboard for a fall foliage ride or enjoying the Santa Train when the holidays arrive, Southern Michigan Railroad provides a volunteer-run ride between its stations in Clinton Township and downtown Tecumseh. You’ll be zipping along the rails in no time.

2. Gandy Dancer

History buffs will be enamored with the Gandy Dancer, a breathtaking stone building in beautiful Ann Arbor. This former train depot first opened its doors in 1886 to serve as a station along the Michigan Central Railroad line. Today, it operates as a fine dining destination that expertly combines touches of the past with modern, upscale delights. You’ll want to check out every inch of this spectacular structure.

3. Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad

Make the short drive to Flint for a bit of adventuring at Crossroads Village, which also houses the beloved Huckleberry Railroad. This fascinating living history museum takes visitors back in time to the turn of the 20th century and offers family-friendly events all year long. Train fans will be thrilled to ride the Huckleberry Railroad, which allows guests to step aboard an authentic Baldwin steam engine and embark on a 40-minute ride that includes a stretch of the Pere Marquette railway. What’s not to love?

4. Tauber Family Railroad at Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo is a wonderful attraction in itself, consisting of a marvelous 125 acres and more animals than you can possibly imagine. Within the zoo, you’ll find the Tauber Family Railroad. As its name suggests, this miniature railroad has delighted kids and adults alike for generations. The railroad was first built in 1931 and typically serves more than 500,000 passengers every year. For just $3 per person, you can enjoy a memorable one-way ride.

5. Shepherd Park (Oak Park)

Younger train enthusiasts will have an absolute blast at Shepherd Park in the community of Oak Park, which is located on Church Street. While many guests visit to enjoy a peaceful picnic or watch a local sporting event, others enjoy the model train playscape that keeps children feeling imaginative and entertained. The colorful pieces offered at this playground provide the perfect place to make wholesome memories.

6. Wixom Station

If you’re hungry, head to Wixom Station in the Detroit suburb of Wixom for a meal among train-themed surroundings. Situated along Pontiac Trail, this unique eatery serves an assortment of mouthwatering eats among train-inspired decor and memorabilia. With all sorts of contemporary eats to select from, including steak and seafood, it’s nearly impossible to leave Wixom Station with an empty stomach.

7. The Henry Ford

You might have visited the Henry Ford or its accompanying Greenfield Village during previous visits to Dearborn, but have you taken time to immerse yourself in the on-site railroad exhibit? The Henry Ford is home to loads of artifacts and remnants of the country’s transportation history, including one of the largest steam locomotives of all time. Whether you’re stepping into a train car or simply reading about the wonders of early railroad travel, you’ll want to spend all day perusing this section of the museum.

8. Grand Trunk Pub

When hunger strikes, train fans should certainly check out Grand Trunk Pub on Woodward Avenue in Detroit. This downtown gem sits within a converted 1900s railway station and prides itself on serving more than 170 varieties of craft beer and plenty of tasty fare. The decor and atmosphere alone are worth checking out, while the fantastic eats and beverages are just the icing on the cake at this history-rich spot.

So, there you have it: an unforgettable train-themed trip around Detroit. Have you visited any of these exciting locales in or around the Motor City during previous family adventures? Did we leave any of your favorite day trip destinations in Detroit off our list? Share your thoughts by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another must-visit spot in the area by filling out our official nomination form here.

Searching for another fun adventure to embark on? Read about these pretty covered bridges near Detroit.