We love the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show. That’s probably no surprise, seeing how we’re a railroad-themed B&B, but it’s worth saying:
This show is a great time. In fact, we make an annual pilgrimage there to connect with some of our favorite people and organizations. And, of course, we always grab a picture or two. Here’s one from 2024!
We’re heading back there in a few days, and we couldn’t be more excited. If you’re considering a trip to Massachusetts to join us at thousands of other railfans, here’s everything you should know:
Table of Contents
The Amherst Railroad Hobby Show FAQ
What is the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
How do you get tickets for the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
What Is the Amherst Railway Society?
When is the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
Where is the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
Who attends the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
How many people go to the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
Enjoy Railroad Fun All Year Long
The Amherst Railroad Hobby Show FAQ
What is the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
The Amherst Railroad Hobby Show is an award-winning railroad-themed trade show featuring model railroads, historical preservation societies, travel agencies, art, photography, videos, books, and more across 350,000 square feet in four buildings.
It is the largest annual railroad-themed trade show in North America!
Hosted by the Amherst Railway Society, the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show aims to raise money to support railroad-related nonprofit organizations and projects throughout the country.
Related Reading: The 5 Best Model Train Shows To Attend Soon
How do you get tickets for the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
Tickets are generally available in three options:
- Online purchase through the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show website.
- One-day pass available at the gate.
- Two-day pass available at the gate.
What Is the Amherst Railway Society?
The Amherst Railway Society is a Palmer, MA-based organization dedicated to spreading the love and excitement of railroads and model railroad hobbies.
The Society started off as a small group of University of Massachusetts students in the 1950s, and it has since grown to include modelers, photographers, historians, train riders, and more.
When is the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
The Amherst Railroad Hobby Show is normally scheduled for the end of January each year.
For 2026, the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show is held:
- Saturday, January 24th from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday, January 25th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Check the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show website for future dates and times.
Where is the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
The Amherst Railroad Hobby Show is held at the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in West Springfield, MA.
The address for the expo fairgrounds is 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089.
Who attends the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
We do! Of course, you’ll also find:
- Railfans and railroad lovers
- Photographers
- Artists
- Historians
- Modelers
- Casual fans
Download the 2026 exhibitor list to learn more.
How many people go to the Amherst Railroad Hobby Show?
A record-setting 27,535 people attended in 2025. In 2024, more than 17,000 people attended the Saturday events, which marked a single-day record.
Enjoy Railroad Fun All Year Long
The fun doesn’t have to stop when the fairgrounds close their gates at the end of the show.
Join us in Cresson, PA! Our cozy bed and breakfast overlooks Norfolk Southern’s busy mainline and sits only a few minutes from the world-famous Horseshoe Curve.
Book a room today!