Attractions: Shows, Museums & Exhibits
The Western New York Railway Historical Society – Buffalo, NY
The Western New York Railway Historical Society is one of New York’s largest independent railroad history organizations dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich railroading heritage of the Western New York region. The society publishes historical research, maintains archives and artifacts, and hosts events and activities that celebrate the area’s railroad legacy for members and the public.
Medina Railroad Museum – Medina, NY
The Medina Railroad Museum is housed in one of the largest standing wooden freight depots in the United States and preserves the rich railroading history of Western New York. The museum features extensive exhibits, railroad artifacts, and one of the largest public model train layouts in the region, offering an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
National Toy Train Museum – Strasburg, PA
Explore one of the world’s most comprehensive toy train collections. With hands-on exhibits and an extensive reference library, this museum is a must-visit for kids and collectors alike.
Eastern Division: York Train Fair – York, PA
A legendary event held twice a year, where thousands gather for the largest and most iconic toy train show in the country, hosted by the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association.
Model Train Clubs & Organizations
Edgerton Model Railroad Club – Rochester, NY
The Edgerton Model Railroad Club operates one of the nation’s longest-running public model railroad displays, featuring four detailed O-scale layouts representing Rochester, New York, through all four seasons. Originally established in 1950, the club continues to preserve this historic exhibit at the Edgerton Recreation Center, offering free tours for visitors of all ages.
FCTT HiRailers – Rochester, NY
FCTT HiRailers (Flower City Tinplate Trackers) is a not-for-profit modular Hi-Rail model train club based in Rochester, New York. The club builds and displays fully scenicked O-gauge layouts and participates in shows and events that bring model railroading excitement to members and the public.
Train Collectors Association (TCA) – Ronks, PA
The TCA promotes the appreciation and preservation of tinplate toy trains through research, education, fellowship, and outreach, establishing collecting standards and inspiring future generations.
Train Collectors Society (TCS) – United Kingdom
Founded in 1979 and based in the UK, the TCS connects enthusiasts worldwide with an interest in collecting and the rich history of toy and model trains.
Discussion Groups & Listservs
TCA Toy Trains Mailing List (TTML)
The official TCA-sponsored mailing list, where members and the public can engage in discussions, share expertise, and deepen their knowledge of toy train history and collecting.
TCA Members Yahoo Group
An honest and respectful forum fostering lifelong learning and camaraderie in model railroading for members around the world.
General Interest Train Resources
RailServe.com
The Internet’s most comprehensive railroad directory with over 17,000 links to train-related websites: travel, model railroading, railfan guides, industry resources, and more.
Model Railroads & Freight Cars
Packed with general model railroading info and how-to guides, including downloadable PDFs.
Model Train Prices
A global comparison engine for model train products from 986 shops—covering everything from rolling stock and scenery to parts and electronics.
Railroads in Texas – Fort Worth and Beyond
A historical overview of how railroads shaped transportation and development in Texas.
TrainDR
Focused on American Flyer Trains, this site includes diagrams, manuals, and high-quality reference materials, with plans to expand into Lionel and others.
Toy Train Software
Inventory Express
Created by METCA VP Jeffery Corrick, this user-friendly software is designed to help collectors catalog and manage their toy train collections with ease.
SCARM (Simple Computer Aided Railway Modeller)
Free and powerful layout design software with access to over 205 track libraries. Plan your dream layout and preview it in 3D with a single click.
Upstate NY Chapter Member Sites
Chuck’s Train Room – North Collins, NY
Chuck’s Train Room has been buying and selling Lionel trains and related hobby items since 1978, offering a selection of post-war, modern, and collectible trains for enthusiasts. The shop also supports local events like the Sanborn Fire Hall train shows and serves as a hub for model railroading activity in the region.