Families, train enthusiasts, and history lovers are invited to a weekend of railroad fun as the Carillon Historical Park Rail Festival returns on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28, 2026!
Before you climb aboard, enter for a chance to win two admission passes! One lucky winner will receive two passes valid for either day of the Rail Festival event. Enter here: Carillon Park Rail Festival Ticket Giveaway
One of the festival's biggest highlights is the chance to ride not one, but two trains. Guests can experience “the little train,” operated by the Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society since 1988, where riders sit atop the train cars. They can also experience “the big train,” the nearly mile-long Carillon Park Railroad that carries up to 120 passengers in open-air coaches.
“This year marks the 175th anniversary of the 1851 Cincinnati, one of the earliest passenger trains to arrive in Dayton and the locomotive that inspired the Carillon Park Railroad,” said Alex Heckman, Vice President of Museum Operations.
“The railroad builds on founder Edward Deeds’ original vision for Carillon Historical Park while giving guests a new way to explore the campus. It also complements the miniature trains that Rail & Steam Society volunteers have operated and maintained since 1988.”
Beyond the train rides, visitors can enjoy an impressive collection of numerous model train displays featuring meticulously crafted miniature worlds. Watch tiny trains travel through detailed scenes that include circuses, farms and even miniature firefighters battling a burning building.
“So much time and craftsmanship go into every display,” Heckman said. “The festival showcases model trains of all sizes, from Z-scale trains small enough to fit in the palm of your hand to G-scale trains as large as a loaf of bread.”
The festival also features live steam engines, historical exhibits, train vendors, food vendors, performances by the Carillon Concert Band, and access to popular park attractions including the Carousel of Dayton Innovation. Guests can also enjoy refreshments at Culp's Café and Carillon Brewing Co.
While the festival takes place during the summer, many exhibits and attractions are located in air-conditioned spaces, offering comfortable fun for families and rail enthusiasts of all ages.
Event Details
Where: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd.
When: Saturday, June 27, 2026, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, June 28, 2026, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Regular admission fees apply. FREE for members.
Don't forget: Enter our Rail Festival giveaway for a chance to win two admission passes before entries close on June 19!
Whether you're a lifelong railfan or simply looking for a unique family-friendly event, the Carillon Park Rail Festival offers a fascinating journey through railroad history right here in Dayton. Special thanks to Leo DeLuca, Carillon Historical Park, for this blog information.
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After your visit to Carillon Park Rail Festival, keep the adventure rolling by exploring everything else Dayton has to offer this summer. From festivals and outdoor concerts to museums, attractions, and family-friendly events, there's always something new to discover. Don't miss our blog on 100 Things to Do in Destination Dayton this Summer! To help plan your next Dayton adventure, request a FREE Destination Dayton Visitors Guide and download the Destination Dayton app for even more things to do throughout the region.