Union Station’s Prized Model Train Gallery Completes Major Renovation

Model Trains have been a part of the Union Station tradition for nearly 20 years. After millions of visitors and millions of scale miles traveled, our Model Train Gallery needed and deserved a major makeover . . . and that’s exactly what has happened.

Along with the total reimagination of the massive space came an expansion to include a dedicated history gallery highlighting vintage images of Union Station and an overview of railroading in America.

Guests within the history gallery are able to view through a stunningly recreated Union Station south façade (featuring our three iconic arched windows) and into the main model train layouts.

Initial public reaction and appreciation have been overwhelming. With more trains, vintage railroad artifacts, motion graphic projections and history elements, dwell time has grown and interaction with volunteers is substantial. (In total, 45 volunteers provided over 7,600 hours to this magical model train experience in 2018 alone.) 

As is widely acknowledged, model railroading invites fans of every age to involve themselves in electronics, computers, puzzles, artistry and extreme detail. The hobby teaches so much and brings people from every walk of life together. 

At Union Station, we run all six train scales and focus on intricate and engaging visual experiences, including a complete Union Station yards recreation. 

There will always be something new to see when visiting the model railroad gallery. That’s the beauty in this hobby. There’s always one more building, one more crossing, one more mountainside and tree to plant. It’s a hobby and past-time as big as your imagination . . . and it wouldn’t be possible at Union Station without a fascinated public, dedicated volunteers and generous donors. 

Opportunities to support our Model Train Gallery range from gifts-in-kind to full gallery naming rights. If supporting this timeless hobby and iconic Union Station location is important to you, please contact Christy D. Nitsche at [email protected] ■

From On Track Magazine – Winter 2019