Next Stop: Fun! The Interactive Train Climber is Ready!
- jlopez5380
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
Located inside The Roundhouse, a brand new 10,000-square-foot indoor facility at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale, Arizona, this one-of-a-kind indoor
play structure invites visitors into a larger-than-life adventure aboard a towering custom built
train climber. Inspired by the historic Magma Arizona Railroad Engine #6-a 1907 Baldwin steam locomotive that ran for 54 years—the grand steam engine and tender car offer an immersive, multi-level climbing and interactive experience unlike any other.
Interactive Play Is Central!
In this three-story, over 26 ft-tall climber, children can
ascend through various levels of the structure, including a dramatic netted “smoke plume” that rises above the engine like a giant, climbable cloud. This netting area includes a maze with woven pathways where kids can climb up, through, and around in a high-flying exploration zone.
Key Features
Three full-sized interactive Hamster
Wheels, acting as the train’s wheels, that kids can walk inside to make the wheels spin like a real locomotive in motion.
Three hand-cranked Spinning Wheels
invite kids to get the spokes turning.
The wheels trigger surprising train
sound effects—like whistles and rhythmic “chugga-chugga” noises—when kids work together to get them spinning.
An imaginative “Coal Machine” ball
machine, where kids turn a crank to
activate an auger that lifts black balls
(“coal”) onto a winding overhead track
connecting the engine to the tender car and back again.
Three Engine Control Panels with
interactive knobs, lights, and dials that
simulate the experience of driving a
steam locomotive. Two are located on the upper levels, with a fully accessible panel on the ground floor for ADA inclusion.
The Toddler Area, located at the back of the tender car, is a thoughtfully designed space for younger children
It's Almost Time!
This highly anticipated project marks an exciting milestone for us at Creative Machines. Our team has been hard at work in Scottsdale, making sure every nut, bolt and screw are in the right place. With every element of the climber being custom-crafted.
With its unique scale, historic inspiration,
and custom design, this indoor train
climber stands as a bold and playful
tribute to railroad history—and delivers an
unforgettable adventure for young visitors
to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, scheduled to open in July 2025.
Stay up-to-date on this project by following us online! Check out the full process of this build on our Instagram.
So next time you're in Arizona, don't forget to stop by and see this marvel for yourself.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a train lover, or just looking for a fun-family activity - it's something you won't want to miss!
About Creative Machines
At Creative Machines, we believe that the key to successful projects lies in effective collaboration with our clients and their communities. Our highly effective hands-on engagement process allows us to fully understand our client's needs, goals, and vision, and also work closely with their community as we design and create the artwork installation that they will know and love for many years to come. With our process, we ensure that our clients are involved in every step of the way, from ideation to final product delivery, resulting in a final product that not only meets but exceeds their expectations. We are committed to delivering innovative, high-quality, and engaging experiences that bring your ideas to life.
Questions?
Our experienced team of artists, architects, project managers, engineers, and fabricators are waiting to hear from you. Whether you have questions, are requesting a quote, or need information about a custom interactive experience, we want to hear from you!
published on June 23, 2025
© Creative Machines
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