As testimony to the enormous interest that model trains generate, many museums throughout the world are dedicated to displaying the enormous variety of models that have been manufactured over a period of more than 100 years.

A search of Google will reveal the huge number of museums dedicated to this wonderful hobby. While some museums have specialised in a particular brand of model train, others have concentrated on trains of special significance to a particular region, country or continent.

As an example, the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum in North Carolina boasts the largest collection of Lionel ™  model trains in the world. Overall, there are over 1,000 Lionel™ engines, rolling stock cars and accessory items on display that make up the Pre-War (1901–1942) and Post-War (1945–1969) eras. In addition, over 2,500 Lionel™ engines, rolling stock/passenger cars and accessories from the Modern era (1970 to present) are on display throughout the museum or operating on layout.

This vast collection of rolling stock built by one company, is a definitive display of the skill and attention to detail that one of the world’s largest model train manufacturers has always achieved.  This collection dates back to 1918 and features such classics as the 1934 Blue Comet Passenger set and the more recent Joshua Lionel Cowen Challenger steam locomotives. Who hasn’t, in their childhood, wanted to own one of these masterpieces? Imagine having the opportunity to spend countless hours wandering around this museum, completely surrounded by Lionel ™ trains.

This museum offers even more than just a static display. Covering half the size of a basketball court, there are now 2 track layouts featuring  G-gauge, Lionel Standard gauge, O scale and HO all operating simultaneously. What is different is that you (or the kid in you) and the kids can push buttons and operate the trains and over 20 accessory items.

Have you ever dreamed of having a toy train? How about playing with one on a huge layout with many trains running at the same time, people playing and working, a waterfall taller than you, loud whistles, flashing lights, dark tunnels and big bridges? Well, here is your chance at the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum.

It is perhaps unfair to highlight just one model train museum as there are so many more that are just as impressive. However, the object here is just to draw people’s attention to the fact that these museums do exist. If they ever have the opportunity to visit one, even if they are not already passionate model train lovers, there is always the possibility that the sheer excitement of operating the trains could convert them to this amazing hobby.