San Diego Model Railroad Museum: A Miniature World of Railroading
Explore California's railroading history in miniature at Balboa Park's San Diego Model Railroad Museum, the largest of its kind in North America.
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum, located in Balboa Park, is North America's largest indoor model railroad museum, boasting over 27,000 square feet of intricate layouts. It showcases the heritage of railroading with detailed miniature representations of California railroads and offers an engaging experience for all ages.
A brief summary to San Diego Model Railroad Museum
- 1649 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-696-0199
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as Balboa Park can get crowded. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid potential lines.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and intricate model railroad layouts.
- Combine your visit with other Balboa Park attractions, such as the San Diego Zoo or the Fleet Science Center.
- Kids under 12 get in free with a paid adult admission, making it an affordable family outing.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Balboa Park is accessible via the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Several bus routes, including 3, 7, 120, and Rapid 215, serve stops on the east and west sides of the park. From downtown, Rapid 215 connects from Amtrak and COASTER trains at the Santa Fe Depot. Use the PRONTO app for easy payment. A one-way fare is $2.50 and is valid for unlimited transfers within two hours. Youth 18 and under ride free with the Youth Opportunity Pass.
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Walking
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is located in the Casa de Balboa building in Balboa Park, near the Prado Restaurant and across from the Lily Pond. Once you are within Balboa Park, follow the signs to the Casa de Balboa. The museum is on the lower level of the building.
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Driving
Parking in Balboa Park is free, but can be challenging during peak times. Several parking lots are available, including the Alcazar Lot, Organ Pavilion Lot, and Inspiration Point Lot. From Inspiration Point, you can take the free Balboa Park tram to the Plaza de Panama, a short walk from the Casa de Balboa. Paid parking options may be available during special events. Limited 10-minute parking is available near the Plaza for ticket purchase. Electric car charging stations are available in the Fleet Science Center and San Diego Zoo parking lots.
Discover more about San Diego Model Railroad Museum
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