Walking into the Eiteljorg Museum yesterday for Media Day felt like stepping into the heart of the holidays before the season even starts. Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure is officially back for 2025, and this year, the team invited us to experience the final hours of preparation before opening day. Seeing everything come to life behind the scenes gave us a whole new appreciation for how special this exhibit really is.
From the sound of model trains warming up to the smell of fresh greenery being placed around the displays, you could feel the excitement in the room. And this year, the exhibit comes with a brand-new addition that everyone is going to love: Route 66, recreated in miniature with the same natural materials and incredible craftsmanship that make Jingle Rails so iconic.
If you’ve never been, Jingle Rails is one of Indianapolis’ most beloved holiday experiences — and for good reason.
The exhibit features G-scale model trains running along more than 1,200 feet of track, traveling through miniature versions of some of the most recognizable places in the American West and right here in Indiana.
Everything you see is built from natural materials — bark, pinecones, twigs, moss, seeds, leaves — creating this organic, warm, handcrafted world that feels alive. And even after so many years, it still surprises you.
This year, the Eiteljorg team introduced a brand-new scene inspired by the legendary Route 66.
On Media Day, we got the full rundown: how they conceptualized the road, the landscapes they wanted to highlight, and the little Easter eggs that visitors should look out for. It’s a fun and nostalgic nod to one of America’s most iconic journeys.
Seeing the artists put on the final touches — tiny signage, desert textures, little pops of color — was honestly one of the best parts of the morning.
Every year, there are sections that stop us in our tracks, and for us, two scenes always steal the show:
This miniature Speedway is impossible to ignore.
The curved track, the movement of the trains, the energy — even in miniature, the feeling is there. It’s one of those spots where you can easily stand for a few minutes just watching everything loop around.
There’s something about this scene that feels comforting.
The lights, the fair booths, the textures, and the little details that bring the space to life — it captures the spirit of Indiana in the most charming way.
These two areas always remind us why Jingle Rails connects so much with locals: it celebrates the places we know, but in a way that makes you see them differently.
Whether you’re going with kids, friends, family, or just exploring Indy during the holidays, Jingle Rails is one of those experiences that genuinely feels good. It’s nostalgic, creative, and full of the small details that make you pause.
Here’s why it’s worth the visit:
Perfect for holiday photos and video content
Built with nature, art, storytelling, and craftsmanship
A mix of Indy landmarks + Western landscapes
Always something new to discover
A great option for “What to Do in Indianapolis for the Holidays”
And honestly — it just puts you in a good mood.
Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure
Location: Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
Season Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 19, 2026
If you want to avoid crowds, consider going earlier in the day or checking their extended hours. The exhibit is absolutely doable at your own pace, and you’ll leave with at least a few new favorite moments.
Experiencing Jingle Rails on Media Day gave us a deeper appreciation for all the work and intention behind this exhibit. From the new Route 66 addition to the iconic Speedway and State Fair scenes, everything feels fresh, detailed, and full of heart.
It’s one of those Indy traditions that never gets old — and if you’re looking for something magical to do this holiday season, this should be at the top of your list.
Photos by We Lie Indy Team
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