Date: May 9-10, 2025
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 Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo!

Get ready to embark on a journey like no other as the Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo 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: Artwork & paintings, shirts, hoodies and hats.Be sure to get your official “Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo shirt 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:

• Columbus Garden Railway Society
• Large Scale Live
• Lakeshore Garden Railway Club
• Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
• Susquehanna Valley Garden Railway Society (fully landscaped garden railroad with live plants)

You may see the current list of vendors, exhibitors and clubs by visiting our website HERE.

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. To sign up to enter the contest visit our website HERE.

Engaging Demonstrations and Workshops: Several clinics/workshops to help Improve your skills. More details to come!

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 “Making Trains Fun” clinics where kids get to use their imagination to build custom flat car loads as well as paint and decorate a building. Best of all the kids get to keep what they build/decorate! That means they’ll be going home with their own g gauge building and/or g gauge flat car with load! Sign up info for the kids clinics coming soon!

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. We have had Items donated from multiple manufacturers and individuals. So many actually that we will be doing a giveaway every hour on the hour both days of the show! 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.

So unless you already have, start planning your visit now. The Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo 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 a full list of vendors, exhibitors and clubs HERE. 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 Great Lakes Large Scale Train Expo, it’s going to be GREAT seeing you there!