Garden Railway

Garden Railway returns as a whimsical, multi-level miniature world combining horticulture, engineering, and family-friendly fun. Large-scale model trains travel through nearly 500 feet of elevated track, passing seasonally changing plantings and miniature recreations of beloved Longwood Gardens features. The display includes steam and diesel locomotives, along with other model trains, trestles, bridges, trees, stepping stones, fencing, and varied foliage.

The railway is built and maintained by teams from Horticulture, Facilities, and Guest Services. Its tracks are supported two to five feet above the ground by trusses and wood planks, while onboard equipment, transformers, receivers, and speed controls keep the trains moving in different directions. The display is assembled each season from a blank site into a detailed landscape filled with plants and railroad scenery.

When: October 2, 2026–January 10, 2027

Showtimes: On view during regular Gardens hours, weather permitting.

Tickets: Free with Gardens admission. Timed Gardens admission tickets are required.

Reservations: From October 2–November 1, timed member reservations are required for members visiting Friday through Sunday after 3:00 p.m.; reservations are not required for Gardens Premium Members and Innovators. From November 2–15, reservations are not required for members and Innovators. From November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027, timed member reservations are required every day from opening through closing during A Longwood Christmas; reservations are not required for Gardens Premium Members and Innovators.

Venue: Longwood Gardens

Features: Nearly 500 feet of elevated track, large-scale model trains, steam and diesel locomotives, trestles, bridges, and miniature models of Longwood Gardens features set among seasonal plantings.

Ages: Suitable for all ages.