Since opening in 1998, All Aboard! Has captivated imaginations with hands-on play alongside the mighty Reuben Wells steam locomotive.

After more than 25 years, it’s time for a refresh! On Nov. 17, 2025, we will begin temporarily closing All Aboard! so our team can conserve, preserve, and reimagine the exhibit. When it reopens fall 2026, you and your family will encounter a whole new train-centric world full of discovery and curiosity with numerous activities designed for young learners.

Here are some of the new interactive opportunities we have planned for the exhibit:

• “Drive” a train by pressing knobs and pulling levers and cranks
• Use foam hammers to insert railroad spikes into the tracks
• Couple (join) railroad cars by matching shapes
• Experience a new sound and light show, bringing the Reuben Wells to life like never before

These fan-favorite features will continue to be part of the All Aboard! exhibit:

• The Reuben Wells isn’t going anywhere—the museum was actually built around this 55-ton object
• We’re expanding the train track play table
• The sky tracks with trains chugging overhead
• Some model train display cases
• You’ll continue to be able to hop aboard the tool car

During the temporary closure of the All Aboard! exhibit, be sure to check out A Parent’s Guide to Early Learning Fun at The Children’s Museum, a resource put together by our Early Childhood team, highlighting many other areas our youngest visitors love to visit.