JANUARY 2026

If there is one museum that deserves a prize for being kid-friendly, it is Dutch The Railway Museum (spoorwegmuseum). Kids love trains, so it makes sense that this museum caters to adults as well as kids. During the festive period the museum changes into a winter station, with an ice rink. I personally think this museum does Christmas so well, with lots of Christmas trees, festive lights as well as decorated trains. Apparently, The Railway Museum switches up themes during the year, with extra activities in the school holidays, so it is always worth it going back!

Practical information

The Railway Museum is located in Utrecht, next to Maliebaan train station. Parking is limited and expensive, come early if you want to use it. They prefer you to arrive by train, of course! Regular tickets cost € 22 per adult during the Winter Station. Kids are free until 3 and otherwise they pay an adult fare. If you have a Museum pass The Railway Museum is free, but you pay a small allowance of € 2,50 during Winter Station. You can book your tickets here. Your ticket includes free rental of ice skates and use of the ice rink. We visited on a busy weekend day and were able to get on the ice pretty quickly. There is a restaurant onsite, with some small meals such as fries and sandwiches. During Winter Station there seems to be some extra stands, with poffertjes, marshmellows, hotdogs etc.

The Railway Museum

The museum has a good combination of displays & education and fun & activities. I personally find that this makes the museum fun for adults as well as kids. We visited with friends with kids and alle the kids were very entertained. The museum has some small attractions, such as riding a little train, a stage with plays, some rides and a carroussel. Everything is train-themed, so it educates the kids as well as entertains them. There is no shortage of model trains and displays of real size old trains. The fun part is that you are allowed to climb all the trains that are displayed, even the royal train! The museum is incredibly interactive and highly interesting for kids. Of course there is a large playground outside as well. We also visited the little theater for a 30-minute show. I don’t love theater, but it still was a good addition to the day.

The entrance is fully decked out with a giant Christmas tree. Don’t forget to look up to the ceiling! Near the entrance you can also find dioramas in suitcases, it is a little bit hidden, but a very cute activity. Hugo is mesmerized each time that we visit.