Model Railroad Show

Everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving weekend tradition is rolling back into town. Where better to host a model train show than in a former train station?

The 49th Annual Model Railroad Show presented by Dominion Energy is bringing a full weekend of trains, science, making and discovery to the Science Museum of Virginia. Train lovers, science enthusiasts and curious minds of all ages will experience the wonder of railroading.

At the heart of the weekend is 10,000 square feet of elaborate model railroad displays created by private hobbyists from across Virginia. Watch scaled locomotives wind through intricate landscapes and miniature cities, then explore even more train-inspired experiences throughout the Science Museum.

Outside in the TrainYard, watch—or work with!—a blacksmith in action and check out our recently restored railcars. Inside, enjoy our train science demo, collaborative train scene build or hands-on play stations for younger guests. Next, head to The Dome for a giant screen film or astronomy show, including fan-favorites T. REX and Arctic: Our Frozen Planet.

This year’s event features special offerings for adults. On Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., local artisan Blackbyrd Goods will be on site creating custom and monogrammed leather items, such as belts and wallets. Plus, on Saturday at 1:30 p.m., local rail experts will present a talk on the future of trains in Virginia.