With over 27,000 square feet of tracks, trestles, and trains, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum is a world of wonder for kids and kids-at-heart. The museum is the only accredited model railroad museum in the country, and one of the nation’s largest hubs celebrating the artistry, craftsmanship, and imagination behind model railroading. Four fascinating layouts are based on actual historic railway lines, while the fantastical Toy Train Gallery is sure to spark smiles.
The museum is OPEN Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. The museum is located on the lower level of the Casa De Balboa building, next to the Prado Restaurant and across from the lily pond in Balboa Park. Admission is available at the door, but online tickets are available and encouraged. A variety of measures, including face covering requirements, physical distancing, and hand sanitizer stations, are in place to ensure guest safety.
An array of digital content, including virtual exhibits, can be found at www.sdmrm.org.
Current & Upcoming Exhibitions
In-Person Exhibits
The Carolwood Pacific: Walt’s Magical Railroad – Created in partnership with the Griffith Park-based Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn, the exhibit tells the story of Walt Disney’s love of the railroad and how this lifelong passion influenced some of his best-known works.
Virtual Exhibits
75 Years of Thomas – Learn about the inspiration and origins of Thomas the Tank Engine, a little blue locomotive loved across the world!
Iron Women – For years, women have been the unsung heroes of the railroad, pioneering innovation with less recognition than their male counterparts. Discover the important contributions of women throughout railroad history!
Visit San Diego Model Railroad Museum
Address:
1649 El Prado
San Diego, CA
92101
Phone:
(619) 696-0199
Hours:
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Website:
1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA
