Enchanted Railroad draws inspiration from arboretum

One model train chugging its way around a landscaped layout can be mesmerizing.

But 10 trains rolling through two levels of scenes inspired by the trees and settings of Lisle's Morton Arboretum? Well, that's simply enchanting.

Hundreds of children and the young at heart made one of their weekend stops Sunday at the arboretum's Enchanted Railroad model train display, which began its monthlong run.

Little fans have a good view of the large-scale engines and train cars as they circle and crisscross through woods and meadows, past ponds with ice skaters and around landscapes echoing the arboretum itself and designed by the LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago.

Arboretum visitors can see the Enchanted Railroad from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends through Monday, Feb. 19, at the arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle.

Free tickets for timed admission to the railroad are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center Information Desk. For information, call (630) 968-0074 or visit mortonarb.org.