A classic local tradition returns to the Cincinnati Museum Center this winter. The 73rd-annual Holiday Junction will transform the museum into a whimsical winter wonderland with toy trains zooming around a mini city, faux snow, custom wintery LEGO creations and a view of the Union Terminal rail yard beginning Nov. 8 and continuing until Jan. 5, 2020.
The incredible Duke Energy Holiday Trains display includes more than 300 toy rail cars and 60 locomotives that run on 1,000 feet of track.
"Track-level views reveal the intricate details of the display, from anxious passengers waiting to board, to cars with the perfect tree strapped to their roofs, to a visitor from the North Pole circling the chimney tops," a press release from the museum reads.
The display also features walkways that give guests a unique birds-eye-view of the trains beneath.
"The elevated vantage point brings guests eye-to-eye with a whimsical take on the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky skylines. The display topper is created with more than 100 pieces of custom-cut art in the shape of Union Terminal, Music Hall, Paul Brown Stadium and more, appropriately connected by the Roebling Bridge," the press release explains.
Holiday Junction’s track layout also features configurations dating back to the early 20 century, so real train aficionados can have fun identifying the new and old formations within the display’s intricate diorama.
"The Carlisle & Finch Company, based in Cincinnati, produced the world’s first toy electric train in 1896. Their 1904 version click clacking through Holiday Junction showcases meticulous craftsmanship and detail in its metal trains, cars, buildings and bridge. Nearby is a pre-World War II Lionel layout and a Lionel Super O layout from the 1960s, complete with ready-made structures specially designed to complement the O-scale trains," the press release continues.
In addition to a whole lot of locomotives, the event also features a special "interactive winter wonderland" where guests can build snowmen, leave footprints and even take a ride on a train. You'll also get a chance to see Thomas the Tank Engine and friends.
You can also pay a visit to Brickopolis, where you'll find plenty of Disney and comic book character portrayed in fun scenes. "Keep an eye out for local landmarks recreated in impressive detail with LEGO bricks," the press release teases.
During the holiday season, Tower A will be open noon-4 p.m. Friday through Sunday to offer guests an extraordinary view of the Union Terminal rail yard.
Santa's arrival is planned for Nov. 29.
Adult tickets cost $14.50; senior tickets cost $13.50; ages 3-12 tickets cost $10.50; ages 1-2 tickets cost $5.50. Tickets are free for children under 1 and members.
For more info visit cincymuseum.org.
