All Aboard: The Most Popular Train Cartoon Shows

Ivor the Engine, airing from 1959 to 1976, captivates generations of young viewers as a classic kids’ cartoon about trains. Set in a fictional region of Wales, the series actively tells the story of Ivor, a small green steam engine working on a rural railway line.

Ivor’s adventures with his driver, Jones the Steam, and other quirky characters charmingly engage viewers with their simplicity and warmth.

Creators Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin developed Ivor the Engine using a unique stop-motion animation style that brings the world of trains to life in a captivating and visually distinctive way. The show’s gentle storytelling, relatable characters, and delightful depiction of the railway system endear it to children and adults.

With its adaptations in 1991 and 2011, The Little Engine That Could stand out as a perfect train-themed cartoon for kids. This heartwarming story revolves around a small, determined locomotive that faces great challenges and overcomes them with perseverance and self-belief. The famous catchphrase “I think I can, I think I can” symbolizes resilience and optimism.

This animated classic entertain children with its engaging storyline and charming characters and imparts essential life lessons. It teaches kids the importance of determination, hard work, and self-confidence, all while keeping them captivated by the exciting world of trains.

Although The Magic School Bus Rides Again isn’t exclusively a train show, this reboot of the classic 1994 series frequently showcases the iconic magical school bus transforming into a train. The transformed train carries its passengers on extraordinary educational adventures, creating a memorable experience for young viewers.

This cherished series masterfully blends science, exploration, and whimsy to make learning enjoyable and engaging for children and adults alike. By incorporating train adventures into the storyline, the show captivates young train enthusiasts and exposes them to various fields of knowledge.

Chuggington, a British computer-animated television series, actively showcases a vibrant cast of young trainees called “Chuggers” as they learn about life on the rails.

Set in a modern, colorful world where train travel forms the community’s heart, Chuggington skillfully blends humor, action, and heartwarming stories to impart valuable life lessons to its young audience.

Train Heroes is a Japanese CGI-animated series that tells the story of a group of special trains known as the “Rail Rescuers.” These trains can transform into robots and work together to protect the rail network from disasters and evil forces.

With thrilling action sequences and a focus on teamwork, Train Heroes provides an exciting twist on the traditional train cartoon.

Originating in South Korea, Tayo the Little Bus is an animated series that revolves around Tayo, a friendly and curious little blue bus, and his vehicle friends.

While not strictly focused on trains, the show actively features various modes of transportation and imparts valuable lessons on friendship, responsibility, and problem-solving. Tayo, the Little Bus, has attracted a substantial international following and has been translated into multiple languages.

Mighty Express is a fantastic train-themed cartoon show for kids who love trains and adventure. The series takes place in a vibrant world called Tracksville, where a team of anthropomorphic trains works with their kid friends to solve problems and embark on exciting missions.

Each train in Mighty Express has a unique personality, skills, and abilities, making them a diverse and engaging group of characters for children to enjoy. The show expertly combines thrilling train action with valuable life lessons, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and the importance of friendship.

Robot Trains, an imaginative and action-packed animated series, actively introduces viewers to a fascinating world where trains transform into robots. In this South Korean cartoon, a group of train friends uniquely transform into robots, each boasting special skills and characteristics.

Kay, a high-speed train and the group’s leader, teams up with his friends Alf, Duck, Selly, and Victor to protect their home, Train World, from various threats and challenges. As they embark on exciting adventures, the protagonists solve problems, learn essential life lessons, and overcome obstacles together as a team.

Documentary Train School, an informative and engaging animated series, actively brings the world of trains to life for children in both an educational and entertaining manner.

Taking place in a train school, the show immerses young viewers in various aspects of trains, ranging from their history and functions to the complexities of railway systems.

The series follows a group of train students as they actively learn about different types of trains, their unique features, and operational methods. Guided by a knowledgeable teacher and engaging lessons, the train students delve into various topics, such as steam engines, electric trains, high-speed rail, and more.

From 2019 to 2021, Infinity Train captivates viewers as a cartoon train TV show with engaging storylines and an intriguing premise. The series actively follows the adventures of different protagonists across various seasons, each embarking on a seemingly endless train journey through a mysterious world filled with countless cars, each housing its unique universe.

Targeting a more mature audience, including teenagers and adults primarily, Infinity Train presents a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on the train-themed cartoon genre.

The show explores complex themes such as self-discovery, personal growth, and the consequences of one’s actions while maintaining a sense of wonder and excitement.

Premiering in 2009 and continuing to air, Dinosaur Train has become an incredibly popular kids’ show that captures the hearts of young audiences. This unique animated series combines the fascination with dinosaurs and the excitement of train travel, actively taking children on thrilling journeys through a prehistoric world.

The show follows Buddy, a curious young Tyrannosaurus rex adopted by a Pteranodon family. Alongside his new siblings, Buddy embarks on adventures aboard the Dinosaur Train, a great locomotive capable of transporting them across various periods to encounter and learn about different species of dinosaurs.

Dinosaur Train skillfully merges education and entertainment, actively teaching children about paleontology, natural history, and various scientific concepts in a fun and engaging way. With catchy songs, vivid animation, and memorable characters, the show makes learning an enjoyable experience for young viewers.

Thomas & Friends, which debuted in 1984 and continues to air, stands out as the most popular train TV show and a favorite among kids worldwide. This classic series, based on the Railway Series books by Reverend W. Awdry, follows the adventures of Thomas, a cheeky blue tank engine, and his locomotive friends on the Island of Sodor.

The show captures the hearts of children and parents alike with its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and valuable life lessons. Each episode features Thomas and his friends facing various challenges and learning about cooperation, problem-solving, and the importance of friendship along the way.

Thomas & Friends boasts a unique combination of model and CGI animation, which brings the world of trains to life visually appealing and charmingly. The series has spawned numerous spin-offs, movies, and merchandise, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.