Adventure brief
Tykes & Trains
TrainTastic! Railroad Museum in Gulfport offers Tykes & Trains, a monthly program for kids under 4 featuring hands-on STEM activities that jumpstart early development. Learn how play turns into powerful learning in this unique family adventure.
Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, the TrainTastic! Railroad Museum offers a one-of-a-kind early childhood program called Tykes & Trains, designed specifically for children aged 4 and under. On the second Tuesday of each month, young adventurers and their caregivers step into an interactive world where learning meets hands-on fun, all centered around the magic of trains. The museum’s STEAM Shop fuels curiosity with engaging STEM activities that promote critical thinking, motor skills, and creativity in a dynamic setting.
This isn’t just playtime—it’s a carefully crafted educational experience proven to boost IQs by up to 25 points in children under age 3. Occupying a unique spot in Gulfport’s community, TrainTastic! blends local culture with the timeless fascination of railroads, offering a practical gateway for the youngest explorers to develop essential skills. While the Gulf Coast is known for its coastal beauty and maritime history, TrainTastic! adds an educational layer that’s rare in outdoor-oriented destinations: a focus on early childhood development through tactile interaction with scaled model trains and STEM challenges.
The museum’s location on Pass Road places it within reach of Gulfport’s vibrant natural surroundings—lush wetlands, pine forests, and the nearby Gulf of Mexico—making it a perfect supplement to family outings that mix indoor engagement with outdoor exploration. Caregivers appreciate the thoughtful programming, welcoming atmosphere, and the take-home crafts that extend learning beyond the visit. Whether seeking an enriching activity for toddlers or a gentle introduction to science and engineering concepts, Tykes & Trains stands out as a specialist offering in the outdoor family recreation landscape.
It nurtures the next generation’s curiosity with practical education, grounding the wonder of trains in the real-world experiences of young children discovering their environment.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Earlyessential
The program begins at 9:30 AM on the second Tuesday of each month; early arrival helps secure your spot and maximize hands-on time.
- 02Perfect for Toddlersinfo
Designed specifically for children ages 4 and under, this program balances stimulating activities with appropriate pacing for little learners.
- 03Bring a Caregiveressential
Each child must be accompanied by an adult; all-day admission includes both caregiver and child for a shared experience.
- 04Take-Home Craftsinfo
Don’t miss out on the take-home crafts that reinforce learning concepts and provide activities beyond museum hours.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for caregivers who will be on their feet engaging with little ones.
EssentialLight Jacket
Gulfport’s fall mornings can be cool; a light jacket ensures comfort during arrival and departure.
fallSnack and Water Bottle
Keep kids hydrated and energized before or after the session.
EssentialReusable Bag
Perfect for carrying take-home crafts and educational materials.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Small-scale model train layouts rarely open to the public, Hands-on STEAM shop powered by Mississippi Power
Local fauna
Eastern gray squirrels, Various songbirds native to the Gulf Coast region
Historic heritage
Gulfport’s railroad history dates back to the early 20th century, playing a vital role in regional shipping and commerce.
Mindful exploration
TrainTastic! encourages sustainable play by using educational materials that promote environmentally responsible STEM learning.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Up-close shots of model trains in action, Interactive activity stations, Museum exterior showcasing vintage railcars
- Subjects
- Miniature train details, Children engaged in crafts, Historical railroad displays
- Best times
- Morning light, Midday during indoor activities, Golden hour near the museum entrance
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What is the age range for Tykes & Trains?
The program is designed for children ages 4 and under.
Do caregivers need to stay with their children during the program?
Yes, each child must be accompanied by a caregiver throughout the experience.
Is registration required in advance?
Yes, because space is limited, booking ahead ensures your spot for the monthly session.
Are materials or supplies provided?
All hands-on activity materials and take-home crafts are included with admission.
How long does each session last?
Sessions run approximately 1.5 to 2 hours starting at 9:30 AM.
Is the museum accessible for strollers?
Yes, the TrainTastic! Railroad Museum is stroller-friendly throughout the program areas.