We love a great model train show.
And, look, we’ll admit it: We have a basement full of model trains and displays that have been meticulously detailed by hand over hours of hard work (and a few beers with close friends).
Model trains aren’t just a fun, relaxing hobby. They’re a source of warm, friendly community for railfans all over the world.
That’s why model train conventions are so important. They’re an opportunity for all of us to connect over our shared passion and dive deeper into such a wonderful pastime.
5 Model Train Shows To Keep An Eye On
There are plenty of incredible model train shows and conventions every year—as long as you know where to look.
Here are some of the biggest and best annual conventions in the US:
1. The Great Train Show & World’s Greatest Hobby On Tour
Both the Great Train Show and the World’s Greatest Hobby On Tour are produced by TrainShow.com, an organization that promotes itself as The Best Place to Find Great Train Shows In America.
What truly makes the Great Train Show so exciting (aside from the obvious) is its frequency. Between October 2025 and March 2026, the Great Train Show booked 22 different venues from multi-day events in western and midwestern USA—from California to Ohio.
This traveling train show often features 250+ tables of trains for sale and 12 huge operating model train displays (one is even 3,500 square feet!).
Although the Great Train Show isn’t very active on social media, we did find this display video from 2016 through Watch Train Videos:
Visit the Great Train Show website to learn more about their upcoming shows and ticket pricing!
2. Lionel Collectors Club of America’s Model Train Conventions
Lionel has a special place in the hearts of many railfans around the United States, and it’s even more popular within the Lionel Collector’s Club of America.
The LCCA was first established in 1970, and while there are plenty of reasons to follow them, one of the biggest is their annual model train conventions. Each year, the LCCA clears the final week of July to host a major event.
But the Club also offers special events throughout the year, which gives attendees even more opportunities to see their beloved model trains in action. Some of these shows even include plans and automobiles for an extra burst of fun!
3. The National Train Show & NMRA National Convention
The National Train Show was established in 1988 by the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA), and it has since become a beloved annual addition to the NMRA National Model Railroad Convention.
Each year, the NMRA aims to create “A Convention Like No Other,” and you’ll regularly find:
- NMRA model contest and showcase
- Banquet dinners
- Clinics
- Prototype tours
- Yard sales of new and used equipment
- And much, much more
It’s always an exciting event for both railfans and curious members of the public! Be sure to check the full list of NMRA conventions for future opportunities.
4. The Railroad Hobby Show
It’s hard to overstate just how big the Amherst Railway Society’s Railroad Hobby Show really is. Each year, this can’t-miss event covers 350,000 square feet, making this massive exhibit packed with model railroads, railroad art, railroad photography, railroad artifacts, and more.
We love this show so much, we’ve even exhibited in the past:
5. Great Scale Model Train and Railroad Collectors Shows
The Great Scale Model Train and Railroad Collectors Shows are exciting destinations for buyers, sellers, and visitors eager to discover immersive, exquisite layouts designed by skilled modelers.
These shows encourage a family atmosphere and plenty of photography to spread the joy of model railroading and share the inspiration of a truly wonderful track design.
And if your schedule is hard to wrangle, here’s the best part: The Great Scale Model Train Show is held three times a year—which means there’s always another one coming up soon!
Where to Find Even More Train Shows
TrainShows.net does exactly what its name suggests: It aggregates some of the coolest, most exciting upcoming train shows from all over the country.
There, you can learn about modest one-day shows in small towns like Martinsburg, WV, and large, multi-day conventions in major cities like Sacramento, CA.
Check out its Train Show Calendar for a full list of upcoming shows closest to you!
Where to Stay During Your Next Model Train Show
We have the perfect location to stay on your way to your next model train convention (or on your next Pennsylvania road trip)! Our railroad-themed bed and breakfast is less then four hours away from some of the region’s biggest cities, including:
- Pittsburgh
- Philadelphia
- Baltimore
- Washington, DC
- Columbus
- Cleveland
- Erie
- Buffalo
The best part: Our front porch overlooks the busy Norfolk Southern railroad main line, ensuring you’ll get up-close, picture-perfect views of the passing trains! Book your room today!
