History
Our Vision:
“Create something unique, a one-of-a-kind family entertainment center that would entertain, educate and promote railroading and the hobby in a magical environment.”
Our History
EnterTRAINment Junction owner, Don Oeters, a successful Cincinnati businessman and train hobby enthusiast, had an idea that turned into the World’s Biggest Model Train Layout in the country.
Bruce Robinson, local architect, took Don’s ideas and developed concept drawings that brought them to life in what can only be called an “indoor theme park” so Don quickly decided to move forward and create this major attraction. The attraction would be home to the world’s largest model train display which takes you on a virtual train journey. Additionally, it would include an indoor kid’s playground, a railroad museum, as well as a gift shop, hobby shop, snack bar, private rooms for birthday parties and events, and eventually, an old style fun house to give it the feel of a nostalgic Cincinnati amusement park.
Don’s dream was simple: make it about the history of railroading, have it be interactive and for all ages. In early 2007, construction began, which was led by Larry Koehl, the Greater Cincinnati Garden Railway Club, Miami Valley Club, and other volunteers. They planned the train display area and began to lay track, construct mountains and build miniatures. After a hectic year of construction, EnterTRAINment Junction opened in August of 2008.
To develop and create a world class museum, Don enlisted the help of Dan and Ruth Britt of Hamilton, OH. They were able to take mountains of information to create interactive and educational displays that are enjoyed by all.
EnterTRAINment Junction continues to be a dream come true for the whole family – from children to railroad aficionados. Don continually upgrades the attraction with new additions including new structures and train controls.
Timeline:
- 2007: Construction began
- August 2008: EnterTRAINment Junction opens!
- October 2009: Hobby Shop opens
- March 2010: Kid’s area expansion
- June 2010: New outdoor kid’s train ride opens
- March 2011: Grand opening of A-Maze-N Funhouse: The Greatest FunHouse on Earth
- March 2012: New funhouse walkthrough – Crazy Caper
- June 2013: Phase 2 of train display completed on the mezzanine which includes amazing replica of Cincinnati’s Coney Island
- 2014-2015: Additions in the Imagination Junction kid’s play area with 20% expansion
- 2015: Escape the Room Challenge Opens
- 2016: Complete redesign of the computer train control systems began
- 2019: Addition of It’s a Marbleous Life: The World’s Most Complete Collection of Marbles!
- 2020: Expansion of the kids climbing structure.
- 2020: Escape the Room Challenge closes.
- 2022: Addition of the World’s Largest Collection of Thomas & Friends Memorabilia.
- 2024: Looking to retire, Don began looking for someone to purchase the business in 2022. Sadly, after 2 years with no takers, it was announced in June that EnterTRAINment Junction would be closing in January of 2025.