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San Diego Model Railroad Museum, San Diego

4.4
#5 of 32 in Museums in San Diego
Specialty Museum Museum
One of the largest venues of its kind in the world, San Diego Model Railroad Museum features a number of scale model railorads and layouts. The four clubs that created and maintain these exhibits are the San Diego Model Railroad Association, La Mesa Model Railroad Club, San Diego Society of N-Scale, and San Diego 3-Railers. Children adore the hands-on "Lionel type" layouts at the museum's toy train gallery. Since opening in 1982, almost 3 million visitors have spent time learning and playing at this interactive and informative museum. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to San Diego Model Railroad Museum by using our San Diego itinerary planner.
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Reviews
TripAdvisor Traveler Rating
408 reviews
Google
4.5
  • My husband is a railroad engineer so he really enjoyed himself in here. Admission was donation so bonus! Quite intricate detail of the retro era cityscape for the model railway.  more »
  • All ages but kids love it as some have never seen a model train. The exhibits are endless and complete with volunteer guides and context as they are models of California rail.  more »
  • Lots of people my age grew up with model trains somewhere among our toys and many of us never lost our love of these wonderful little electric trains. The model train museum is run by people who love ...  more »
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Google
  • Beautiful museum. One can spend 2 hours here. They have different exhibits for different types of train tracks. My toddler loves Thomas and the friends exhibition. Staff was friendly and answered the questions. And museum visit is free for San Diego county residents on first Tuesday of the month.
  • I never knew this place existed, took my two year old and he was absolutely fascinated! I enjoyed it as well. If you're into this kind of thing you could probably spend the whole day here. But a good way to kill an hour or two otherwise.
  • The museum was clean and organized. All of the staff was friendly and happy to answer any question from kids or adults. The different types and styles of model trains were visible and on display. It was enjoyable for kids of all ages
  • Fun filled place for young kids and train enthusiasts. Brings up good memories of younger days.
  • Great layout. Different sections for different sized model trains. They have children friendly events and a separate room for toddlers to play with wooden railroads. They are constantly expanding different sections with new tracks and scenery. Many hobbyists operating trains and love sharing tips. Very friendly environment. Note: they open from 11 to 5 on weekends.
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Where to stay in San Diego

Offering accommodations at a wide range of price levels, San Diego is one of the easiest cities to stay in, regardless of whether you're simply passing through or hanging around for a long vacation. If you don't mind splurging, book your stay at a luxury downtown hotel or a lavish bayside resort. You can also rent a spacious private cottage within walking distance of the city's popular beaches. For a more affordable alternative, try a family-friendly hostel or quaint inn in a quiet residential area.
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