San Diego Model Railroad Museum: North America's Largest Indoor Layouts
Spanning 27,000 square feet in the basement of the Casa de Balboa building, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum is the largest operating indoor model railway museum in North America.
Visit on your scheduleDec 1 – Feb 28 · 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Tuesday–Sunday (closed Mondays); 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Extended weekend hours
San Diego Model Railroad Museum (Casa de Balboa)1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 · 1.3 mi approx. from San DiegoDirections
All ages; push-button interactive train controls ideal for toddlers and young kids; elevator accessible
From $14$14 adults; $7 youth ages 6–11; free for children under 6; Balboa Park Explorer pass accepted
About this adventure
Children are enthralled by four enormous scale train layouts depicting historic California railroad lines, complete with miniature trestles, tunnels, glowing city streetlamps, and chugging freight trains. The interactive 'Toy Train Gallery' allows toddlers to press buttons to control model trains, sound whistles, and operate track switches. The museum provides elevator access, wide aisles, and a dedicated stroller parking area.
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