There’s something about a miniature train that makes everyone stop and watch. At the Eiteljorg Museum, that fascination becomes a holiday adventure unlike any other attraction in town. Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure is a miniature train wonderland where iconic Indianapolis landmarks and the American West share the same tracks.
Eight G-scale model trains ramble over more than 1,200 feet of track past more than 30 scenes, from the Soldiers and Sailors Monument and Lucas Oil Stadium to the Grand Canyon and the Golden Gate Bridge. Every landscape is made entirely of all-natural materials like twigs, nuts and bark. Step back and it’s a skyline. Lean in and it’s walnut shells, pinecone scales and cinnamon sticks.
That makes the whole display a scavenger hunt. Kids can pick a train to follow, spot landmarks they know, wait for Old Faithful to erupt and pose with a near-life-size train engine built from nature. Afterward, the museum’s interactive family area keeps the exploring going.
Invite grandparents along, gather the cousins or make it an outing with just the kids. The display gives different generations a common starting point for conversation, curiosity and a little holiday wonder.
Jingle Rails has been an Eiteljorg tradition since 2010, and with countless small details, there’s always something new to find on a return trip. Families who plan to come back can look into an Eiteljorg membership, which includes free admission during regular museum hours.
This one-of-a-kind experience belongs on every family’s holiday bucket list.
Jingle Rails 2026: Dates, Hours and Tickets
- Dates: Nov. 21, 2026, through Jan. 18, 2027
- Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
- Where: Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
- Admission: Included with museum admission; free for members
- Tickets: Eiteljorg.org/JingleRails
Related Article: 10 Best Holiday Train Rides in Indiana (2026)
