About a year ago we were in a train store across from the local train museum and I met a few guys from a modeling club. We are headed back there tomorrow. I want to see which trains he gravitates towards the most and gather more research. He thought he was getting a train like this last year and was so disappointed when he did not. I am anxious to get a train on order to get here in time for Christmas because he still has the same interest. I believe at the ripe old age of four that he is a true train fan. There is something special in this hobby. I see it and he sees it too.

I had no idea this would be so fascinating and complicated at the same time!! Thanks so much for the information. The links are fabulous and so helpful!! I will research further and likely have more questions..thanks again!!

With this type of train and his age his playtime would be limited. He enjoys simply watching it go around and around. He has plenty of play trains with Thomas. So what is the best recommendation for an around the ceiling train set with much supervised train time until train track can be built? Bachmann or Lionel? I really want a pennsylvania rr with passenger cars but am also more concerned with ease of use and durability around the track since it will be up so high and children will be playing under it. I appreciate all of this wealth of information.

Thank  you for this information!! What train would you recommend? Do you think the Thoroughbred Set is a good one to start? Can I add to it easily?

Hi! Totally a train novice but have a 4 year old son who is absolutely a train fanatic. I would like to get him a real electric train..he has already outgrown thomas and is completely in love with the train models at a children's hospital that we frequent due to some health problems he has. I would like to get him a train that could be installed to go around the top of his room.  I see the Bachmann Thoroughbread Ready to Run HO on sale at Amazon. It has good reviews for a beginner train.  I would like for family to be able to purchase and add to this train. I am really interested in the Pennsylvania Railroad because he was born in Philadelphia because of the Children's hospital there.  Would family be able to add some of the Pennsylvania Railroad cars such as Bachmann Trains Pennsylvania Railroad Merchandise Service 40' Box Car-Ho Scale to make this a more personal gift through the years?  I do not want to be at great expense since he is so young. Would love any information and help you can give me with this train idea. Thank you!