Celebrating 90 Years of Model Railroads!
October 28, 2025 – February 22, 2026
Welcome to the World of Trains
For 90 years, the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) has been the “mothership” of the model railroading community. Founded to support both the hobby and industry of model railroading, the NMRA has grown into a global fellowship of enthusiasts united by their passion for the world’s best hobby.
Arizona Division: A Hub for Train Enthusiasts
The Arizona Division is the largest division in the NMRA’s Pacific Southwest Region (PSR) in terms of membership. Covering the entire state, any NMRA member who lists Arizona as their residence automatically becomes part of the division. With many winter visitors, Arizona attracts numerous guest members during the season.
A simple loop of track under the Christmas tree is where many people fall in love with model trains. But for some hobbyists, the fun doesn’t stop there. In real life, railroads move freight and passengers according to complex schedules — and model railroaders bring that same realism to their layouts through operations. In this video, discover how groups of model railroaders get together to “operate” their layouts just like real train crews — switching cars, following timetables, and solving logistical puzzles. It’s part play, part problem-solving, and all about bringing miniature railroading to life.
A Collaborative Celebration
This unique exhibit is the result of a collaboration between The Arizona Division of the NMRA and the following organizations:
They’ve joined forces to bring the public a temporary railroad exhibit at the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures in Tucson.
Meet Modelers & Join the Fun at Events
Attend Rails in the Garden – March 7 & 8, 2026
Join the Tucson Garden Railway Society for a free self-guided tour of 10 large G-scale garden railways across the Tucson area.
Date & Time: March 7 & 8, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Explore beautifully crafted gardens and impressive model trains at your own pace. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Tucson’s finest garden railways in action!
