Train lovers find ‘World’s Greatest Hobby’ at San Diego Model Railroad Museum

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum captivates visitors with its vast 27,000-square-foot display of model trains and intricate landscapes.

SAN DIEGO — The San Diego Model Railroad Museum, located in Balboa Park, is drawing train enthusiasts and families alike as the largest facility of its kind in North America. Spanning 27,000 square feet, the museum features an impressive array of model trains, intricate landscapes, and interactive displays.

The expansive layout includes as many as 50 trains running simultaneously on three miles of track. Visitors can observe detailed recreations of various landscapes, including the Carrizo Gorge, complete with miniature buildings, vehicles, and animated scenes.

“This is the world’s greatest hobby,” said Mike Thornhill.

Young visitors, Evan and Blake, expressed their excitement about the trains’ capabilities. 

“I just think it’s cool that they can pull so many cars at the same time,” one of the boys remarked.

The museum’s attention to detail extends to the model trains themselves, with some featuring realistic graffiti created by artists to enhance authenticity. Jerry Jackson, a former railroad professional, shared his enthusiasm for the exhibits.

“I’m a kid again, do you know what I mean?” Jackson said.

Lew Dominy, another museum representative, explained the historical significance of the displays and highlighted the level of interactivity and realism in the exhibits.

“Most of these buildings are animated. The McDonald’s, you can place an order, get a hamburger for a buck,” he said.

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and students. Children 12 and under can enter for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

For train enthusiasts and families looking for an engaging attraction in San Diego, the Model Railroad Museum offers a unique and immersive experience that brings the wonder of trains to life in miniature scale. For more information, click here.