Model-train enthusiasts put countless hours into creating and enjoying model-train displays. Layouts range from the simple--a track and train--to the elaborate--re-creations of natural areas, historic landmarks or city landscapes. Children are always welcome, and the entire family will have an opportunity to work some of the models at model-train shows in New York.
The Greater Buffalo Train and Toy Show is held annually in late November at the Agri Center on the Hamburg, New York, fairgrounds. Parking is free. Hundreds of vendors sell collectible toys, holiday goodies, dolls, toy trains and train books and videos. Check out the model-train layouts of the Niagara Frontier Live Steamers, NOME's HO and N gauge layouts, WNY Garden Railway's G scale layout and the Circus Train Display. Spectators are encouraged to operate the layouts and play with the trains. Admission, as of 2010, was $7 for those over 12 and free for 12 and younger.
Greater Buffalo Train and Toy Show
Agri-Center
5820 South Park Ave.
Hamburg, NY 14075
716-743-0945
trainweb.org
The Great New York State Model Train Fair is among the biggest model-train shows in the northeastern United States. The fair is held at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse and features free parking, free admission for children under 5 and complimentary shuttle buses that travel back and forth between each of the display buildings and parking lots. The fairgrounds have several restrooms, an ATM and stroller/wheelchair/electric scooter rentals. Check out the goods being sold by some 100 vendors, from model-train paraphernalia and gifts to more than 30 model-train layouts. The fairgrounds provide overnight camping facilities; the fee, as of 2010, for spaces with electricity was $25 per night. Some hotels in the area offer discounts to those attending the fair. Admission to the fair, as of 2010, was $9 for adults; at two-day pass was $13.
The Great New York State Model Train Fair
581 State Fair Blvd.
Syracuse, NY 13209
modeltrainfair.com
Bring your kids to the Christmas Train Exhibit at the New York Botanical Garden. The models recreate more than 140 New York landmarks, including the original Penn Station, Statue of Liberty and Yankee Stadium. Watch the trains weave their way through the cityscape, over bridges, through tunnels and waterfalls. New York Botanical Garden has on-site parking and is accessible by public transportation. Additional activities include the Gingerbread Adventures outdoor maze, puppet shows and, in the evening, Christmas carols. The show is open from Thanksgiving Day through early January.
New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
200th St. and Kazimiroff Boulevard
Bronx, NY 10458
718-817-8681
nybg.org
