Model Railroad Show

All aboard and full steam ahead!

Everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving weekend tradition is rolling back into town. We guarantee this special event has all the bells and whistles!

The 47th Annual Model Railroad Show offers science enthusiasts and train lovers of all ages the opportunity to enjoy the discovery process while making memories. And where better to host a model train show than in a former train station!?

Featuring an entire room full of elaborate train displays created by private hobbyists from across the state, the Model Railroad Show showcases scaled locomotives riding through intricate landscapes and miniature cities. This year's event features nine displays—some returning favorites and some new to the Model Railroad Show—in sizes HO, N and O. Plus, there's a LEGO display! From Star Wars characters to UFOs abducting cows, you just never know what special scenes you'll see in each display.

Back by popular demand, and for an even longer period this year, 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!

Educators will offer steam engine demos throughout the weekend and The Forge will feature the fan-favorite, hands-on collaborative train scene build. Plus, guests can chat with a model railroad hobbyist and watch him decorate some display accents.

Plus, new this year, we're showing three episodes of Dinosaur Train rotating throughout the day in the Barbara Thalhimer Theater. We're also turning the RF&P Forum (the former dining room of Broad Street Station) into an interactive family train yard where future engineers can play with a variety of train sets and make their own conductors hat.

With all this happening, who wouldn't choo-choo-choose to come!?

Registration Information

The Model Railroad Show takes place for three days from November 29–December 1.

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.

The room with the model trains opens at 8:30 a.m. for 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.–5 p.m.

All Model Railroad Show activities are included with admission. Tickets are non-refundable, and may not be transferred and resold.