Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure
Step into a locomotive wonderland at Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure, a beloved holiday tradition. This breathtaking model train display features eight G-scale trains traveling through spectacular landscapes and past famous landmarks of Indianapolis and the American West. Each scene is masterfully crafted from natural materials and adorned with festive holiday decorations and twinkling lights, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages. This year, enjoy extended evening hours, explore the return of the Winter Markets featuring local artists, and marvel at the newest addition to the display, Route 66!
What to Expect
Spectacular model train display with natural material scenes.
Event Details
Duration
Museum hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Extended Friday hours on select dates until 7 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Indianapolis
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
Food & Drink
Museum Café available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, train enthusiasts, holiday visitors
Vibe
Festive, whimsical, educational
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking is offered to museum visitors in the WRSP underground garage. Bus and motor coach parking is available nearby at the WRSP south (surface) lot for groups with reservations.
- Accessibility: The museum is committed to providing inclusive and interactive exhibits, programs, and public spaces for all visitors. Manual wheelchairs and canes are available free of charge at the admissions desk. Service animals are welcome. Quiet Sensory Room available on the canal level. Guest services can accommodate nursing mothers needing a private, quiet place.
- Pets: Service animals are welcome.
Tips & Advice
- Consider visiting during the extended evening hours on select dates for a magical nighttime viewing experience of the illuminated displays.
- Take advantage of the new family activities area in the expanded Allen Whitehill Clowes Sculpture Court for interactive fun.
- Don't miss the Winter Markets on select dates to discover unique crafts from local artists.
- Utilize your smartphone to scan QR codes placed on labels for bonus content and videos about your favorite scenes.
- Allow ample time to explore the more than 30 detailed scenes, from local Indianapolis landmarks to iconic Western vistas.
Special Events & Promotions
- Extended evening hours on select days
- Return of the Winter Markets featuring local artists
- New addition of Route 66 to the display
- New family activities area in expanded sculpture court
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the museum's operating hours for Jingle Rails?
The museum is open Monday – Thursday & Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Extended Friday hours are available on select dates until 7 p.m.
Is admission to Jingle Rails included with museum entry?
Yes, admission to the Jingle Rails exhibit is included with the cost of general museum admission.
Are there any special events happening during Jingle Rails?
Yes, they host events like the Winter Markets featuring local artists on select dates, and offer extended evening hours for a special viewing experience.
What kind of materials are used to create the Jingle Rails scenes?
The scenes are masterfully crafted from natural materials such as twigs, leaves, pinecone scales, bark, and various seeds and pods.
Is there parking available for visitors?
Yes, free parking is available for museum visitors in the White River State Park underground garage. Bus and motor coach parking is also available nearby for groups with reservations.
More Christmas Events Near Indianapolis
More Christmas Events near Indianapolis
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.