2026 Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering

Name: 2026 Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering
Start: 2026-05-13T09:30:00-04:00
End: 2026-05-17T16:00:00-04:00
Location: Metroplex Expo Center, 1620 Motor Inn Dr, Girard, Ohio

Schedule

Wed, 13 May, 2026 at 09:30 am to Sun, 17 May, 2026 at 04:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

Metroplex Expo Center, 1620 Motor Inn Dr, Girard, Ohio | Girard, OH

Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering
Date: May 13-17, 2026
See website for schedule
Location: Girard, Ohio
Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo
Date: May 15-16, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM (9:30 AM if you buy your tickets online) to 4:00 PM Both Days
Venue: Metroplex Expo Center, Girard, OH
Discover the world of Large Scale Trains at the 2026 Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering!
Get ready to embark on a journey like no other as the Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering rolls into town! This is your golden ticket to dive deep into the world of large-scale model trains which includes everything from G gauge up to 7.5” gauge ride on trains. Whether you're a seasoned Large Scale railroader, a curious novice, or a family looking for a day filled with fun and learning, the expo promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
What To Expect At The Expo
Trains, Trains, Trains: The expo will feature G gauge trains all the way up to 7.5" gauge ride on trains and accessories for sale from a multitude of vendors. Many that have traveled from multiple states away!
Railroad Themed Items: Art work, shirts, hoodies and hats. Be sure to get your official “Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering shirts as well!
Exhibitors: Hobbyists showing custom models they’ve completed, static club displays and manufactures showing new products they have available.
Operating G Gauge Displays/Layouts: See a multitude of operating large scale displays/layouts from G to 7.5" Gauge.
Modeling Contest: This is the opportunity for you, the modeler to show your best work, current project or anything that you are proud of. Three categories to enter, Custom Locomotives, Rolling Stock and Structures. Each category will have a 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize! Please keep in mind this contest is for fun and the winners will be picked by the expo attendees.
Engaging Demonstrations and Workshops: Several clinics/workshops to help Improve your skills.
Kids Activities: Kids can get hands on with multiple interactive displays. Learn how to operate a g gauge locomotive, learn how cars are switched and sorted on the g gauge switching puzzle plus several clinics where kids get to use their imagination to build, paint and decorate. Best of all the kids get to keep what they build/decorate!
Exclusive Expo Merchandise: Take a piece of the expo home with you by visiting our merchandise booth. Get an exclusive show shirt and more!
Door Prizes: There will be some exciting prizes to be won throughout the event. Drawings will be held every hour on the hour both days of the Expo! There’s nothing additional to purchase to be eligible for the giveaways as each ticket holder is automatically entered.
Food and Refreshments: No need to leave the show to get reenergized as there will be plenty to eat and drink on-site.
What To Expect At The Gathering
Two days of self guided tours of local garden railroads
Visits to sever 7.5" gauge railroads
Opening ice cream social
Banquet at the Historic B&O Station
So unless you already have, start planning your visit now. The Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering is a family-friendly event with something for everyone. Kids will love the interactive displays and clinics designed for them.. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy shopping, interacting, sharing experiences, swap tips, and make/continue lasting friendships within the vibrant community of Large Scale Train Hobbyists. The Expo is easily accessible with ample parking and accommodations nearby. Check out our website for nearby accommodations, directions, and MORE. Whether you're coming from near or far, we strive to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Don't miss out on this spectacular event! Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, friends, and get ready for an event you’ll never forget. The 2026 Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo & Midwest Garden Railroad Gathering, it’s going to be GREAT seeing everyone GATHERED there!
Buy your tickets online and get the following perks:
Advance Entry: Skip the ticket line.
Early Entry: Enter the Expo at 9:30 AM instead of 10:00 AM if you buy your tickets at the door
More Chances To Win Door Prizes: Double your chances to win!
Please note Tickets available at the door will be cash only.