November 12, 2025
What:
Train lovers rejoice: the Model Railroad Show rolls back into Richmond in the final weekend of November. For the 48th year, the Science Museum of Virginia is heading down the track to a three-day celebration of model train displays and train-themed programming in its building that served as a train station for nearly 60 years.
The Science Museum's Model Railroad Show is one of the largest annual gatherings of private hobbyists in the state. The event features an entire room full of elaborate displays with intricate landscapes and miniature cities created by members of Virginia-based model railroad clubs.
This year's event welcomes eight setups—some returning favorites and some new to the Model Railroad Show—in scaled sizes HO, N and O. Plus, there is a LEGO display! From Star Wars characters to UFOs abducting cows, guests never know what special scenes they will see.
Back by popular demand, guests can also watch a blacksmith use a hammer and anvil similar to ones used to make locomotive engine parts like those on the train cars displayed at the Science Museum. Some guests will even get the chance to help forge. Educators will offer a new train physics demo throughout the weekend and “The Forge” will feature the fan-favorite, hands-on collaborative train scene build.
Guests can also see a giant screen film or astronomy show in The Dome, including two new features, “Arctic: Our Frozen Planet" and “Encounters in the Milky Way.”
The Model Railroad Show is sponsored by Sabel Systems and CSX.
Who:
Guests of all ages will enjoy seeing what the model railroaders have added to their displays since last year’s Model Railroad Show. With so much happening, who wouldn't choo-choo-choose to come?
When:
The Model Railroad Show takes place from November 28–30. The room with the model trains opens at 8:30 a.m. for Science Museum members and 9:30 a.m. for the general public. The last ticket will be sold at 4:15 p.m.
The Science Museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Activities take place throughout the day. Guests should check the daily schedule for exact times.
Why:
This special event has all the bells and whistles. Celebrating nearly five decades as a holiday tradition, the Model Railroad Show delights, surprises and allows families to make memories. There’s plenty of science mixed in, too.
How:
All Science Museum and Model Railroad Show activities are included with admission except features in The Dome. Giant screen films and astronomy shows can be added to admission for just $5 per person; members can use a Dome pass. Each feature is limited to 250 guests and seating is first come, first served.
To control the flow of traffic, the Science Museum is offering timed tickets for the Model Railroad Show. All guests, including members, are encouraged to reserve tickets on the Science Museum’s website before the event to secure their top choice of Model Railroad Show entry time.
Where:
Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220