Today’s post is written by Kristin Marks, a.k.a. cBus Mom . She writes a blog by the same name , which she created to offer suggestions and reviews of kid-friendly activities in Central Ohio.

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Huntington Holiday Train at the Columbus Metropolitan Library
by Kristin Marks, cBus Mom

To the left of the mountain is green Percy!

Do not miss the Huntington Holiday Train set up at the Columbus Metropolitan Main Library. I took my 2 year-old Thomas-aholic and we were both mesmerized for almost an hour. Thomas with Annie and Clarabell and Percy with those mischievous freight cars, along with a few other trains, run the the tracks through a replica of a town in Germany.

Teased by a train track crossing sign in the atrium, patrons get the real surprise when they walk into the library. The Huntington Holiday Train is a pleasant shock the first time you lay eyes on it – it is so big and beautifully crafted. My son actually gasped, his eyes almost popped out of his head, and his smile reached from ear to ear. I think I got major mommy points…especially when he saw Thomas for the first time. The display is so beautiful and magical. Snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, miniature people selling wares or playing in streets, detailed buildings made of wood, and lots of train tracks offer a step into another world. (more…)

It’s that time of the year when we tend to take a look back. When I reflect on what the past year and half has meant to Columbus, I’m reminded that this is a city with much to celebrate.

We’re number one. A lot.

I’m not just saying that, either. There’s proof:

Excitement abounded when COSI was named #1 science center in the country by Parents Magazine .

Shortly after that, Columbus was named #1 sports town in the U.S. by Scarborough Sports Marketing.

We love sports, but we also love books. The Columbus Metropolitan Library was ranked #1 library in the nation by Hennen’s American Public Library Rating (it’s been in the top four every year since 1999).

That was followed by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium being named #1 zoo in America by USA Travel Guide .

Then, E. Gordon Gee, president of The Ohio State University , was named #1 college president by Time Magazine .

And most recently, Huntington Park was named Ballpark of the Year by Baseballpark Digest (and, the park received the same distinction from BaseballParks.com back in August).

We’re on a roll, Columbus. Who will be honored next?