A Cincinnati Holiday Tradition Since 1946
The festive train exhibition that has become a seasonal highlight for Cincinnati residents first opened its doors in 1946. Initially installed in the lobby of the Cincinnati Gas & Electric Building at Fourth and Main streets, the display has maintained its popularity across decades.
Historical Origins and Growth
The centerpiece of the exhibition is an O-gauge replica of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, originally constructed in 1936 as a traveling promotional display before finding its permanent Cincinnati home. While many locomotives date back to the original setup, the presentation has significantly expanded over time. Today it encompasses approximately 1,000 feet of railway track, featuring 50 engines and 300 rail cars that navigate through detailed miniature landscapes.
Enduring Public Appeal
Generations of visitors, from young children to adults, have gathered to watch the miniature trains travel past intricately crafted 1:48-scale buildings and scenes reminiscent of Norman Rockwell's nostalgic illustrations. The protective plastic barrier has witnessed countless faces pressed against it, mesmerized by the moving display.
Institutional Transition
In 2011, Duke Energy, which succeeded the original Cincinnati Gas & Electric company, transferred the train collection to the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. There, the Duke Energy Holiday Trains continue their annual return, maintaining their status as one of the city's most anticipated holiday customs.
