Some of the outside exhibits decorated for the holidays.
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Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

4.8
·1k reviews·Gulfport, United States

A captivating model railroad museum offering immersive train rides, intricate displays, outdoor fun, and a playground for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Some of the outside exhibits decorated for the holidays.

Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A captivating model railroad museum offering immersive train rides, intricate displays, outdoor fun, and a playground for all ages.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"This place is awesome! It's like the Tartis, bigger on the inside."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Cash for Rides

Coin machines are available for the pedal trains and mini rides. Essential for little ones!

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, from exhibits to the playground. Wear comfy shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Immersive Train Ride Experience

Immersive Train Ride Experience

Step into a miniature world with visuals that make you feel like you're on a tiny train. A truly unique start to your visit!

Intricate Model Train Displays

Intricate Model Train Displays

Dozens of detailed layouts showcasing different eras and regions of American railroading. A feast for the eyes!

Outdoor Rides and Playground

Outdoor Rides and Playground

Enjoy pedal trains, a miniature train ride, and a high-quality indoor playground for kids of all ages. Fun for everyone!

Interactive Art Exhibit

Interactive Art Exhibit

Design your own train on paper and bring it to life on an animated screen. A creative and engaging experience!

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Planning Your Visit

Plan for a Full Day of Fun

Don't underestimate the size! What looks compact from the outside is surprisingly expansive inside. Visitors rave about the immersive experience, so allocate ample time, especially if you have kids. The new location is much larger than the old one, offering a full day of exploration and activities for all ages. Reddit

Embrace the Interactive Experience

This isn't just a static display; it's an adventure! Many exhibits feature 'I Spy' games, interactive buttons, and even a train with a camera you can watch from a control booth. Kids will love the mini train rides and the indoor playground. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday light events
Why
Magical festive displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

"When the brothers found out that the local train club had lost its location, they stepped in to help. Over the years, what began as the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum grew and moved to progressively larger locations. In June of 2023, they opened in the current space on Pass Road and renamed it the Traintastic Museum." -Dale Irvin writes in Country Roads 🚂 Read the full story using the l...
playcoastalms
31 likes • 827 views

🎯 Bring Cash for Rides

Coin machines are available for the pedal trains and mini rides. Essential for little ones! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, from exhibits to the playground. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

A holiday lights event at TrainTastic, a model railroad museum located on the Mississippi Coast, is now open for the season. Here's what we saw at the event. To read more, check out sunherald.com. #news #mscoast #events #holiday #holidaylights #christmas #thingstodo #mississippi #trains #modeltrains
sunheraldbiloxi
199 likes • 4.5K views
In honor of #NationalVolunteerMonth, we want to recognize the hard work and dedication that the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Club puts in every day to make TrainTastic what it is. The magic that happens at the museum would not exist without each and every one of you. ❤️🚂
traintasticmuseum
13 likes • 456 views

📱 Don't Miss the Camera Train

Watching the train with a camera from the control booth is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is much bigger than it appears. Plan for a full day of fun! Reddit

Living my “Lots and Lots of Trains” dream! 🚂 Definitely check out the model railroad museum in Gulfport! We had so much fun seeing their model train exhibits, riding the mini train, and browsing their vast collection of Lego sets! 🛤️ #trains #allaboard #choochoo #mississippicoastmodelrailroadmuseum #mcmrm #modeltrains #gulfportmississippi
ericamailove
33 likes • 812 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Cash for Rides

Coin machines are available for the pedal trains and mini rides. Essential for little ones! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, from exhibits to the playground. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

📱 Don't Miss the Camera Train

Watching the train with a camera from the control booth is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is much bigger than it appears. Plan for a full day of fun! Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

The theming and displays are incredibly creative. Perfect for photos! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise TrainTastic for its expansive and immersive experience, far exceeding expectations for its size. The museum is lauded as a fantastic family outing with engaging activities for all ages, from intricate model train displays to outdoor rides and a great playground. The friendly staff and creative theming contribute to a highly recommended and memorable visit.

"My family had an INCREDIBLE time!

Initially, I felt that the price was too high given that we had been to their old location and it only took about an hour and a half to see everything. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they have VASTly expanded at their new location. It is huge and took most of the day.

The atmosphere gets a 10 out of 10! The decorations and theming is so creative and fun. I don't even care for trains but they caught my interest.

There were things for all ages, PERFECT for families like mine with kids ranging in age from toddlers to preteens.

The museum starts with an immersive train ride experience with visuals from a train within the museum giving the illusion that you're of miniature scale. Then, there's a small model railroad history section. Next up was a wide variety and array of model train displays. The museum has done a great job making it interactive with I spy set ups for several displays, buttons to interact with the displays, interspersed children's train sets and legos, as well as tunnels into the middle of the displays. Our favorite part was the train with a camera that you can watch from a control booth. We all got a kick out of it, it's a must see feature. Next we went outside and enjoyed the swing, peddal trains, and train ride. These rides were my kids' favorite. Next we went to the indoor playground area which was very nice. The climbing equipment was high quality and offered a variety of ways to climb great for children of different sizes and abilities. The party rooms with cute storefront facades can be seen from here. They have 2 quarter machines and a very convenient coin machine so be sure to bring cash if your kids are small enough to want to ride. They also had a play area perfect for babies with padding that was gated in. There's also a picnic area. Next we played in the caboose, dining car, cargo mover, and engine play areas. In the middle are the restrooms. There's a great expanse of stalls, family restrooms, and even a nursing room. The facilities were all very clean and well kept. Next we played in the greatroom. They had a fun green screen train set up, train set building area (that was mostly empty when we were there), a replica of the coast, and a REALLY fun interactive art exhibit. There you design your own train on paper and bring it to life on the animated screen. Lastly, we visited the "STEAM" room. This was the only disappointing part for my family. The staff kept getting us they had games in there, but we found none 🤷‍♀️. There was just some coloring pages and building toy sets. The gift shop on your way out was really great! The prices weren't as bad as I had expected.

Overall, HIGHLY recommend! Guranteed to have a GREAT time!"

Hope Saucier

"This place is awesome! It's like the Tartis, bigger on the inside. Driving up to it, you think there's not much to it but once inside the fun begins.
My grandsons love trains and this place delivers. There are model trains, Lego trains, Thomas trains, riding trains!
There is an "I spy" activity to find different things in the train set ups. My daughter and I had a great time doing it.
There is a big open play area for big kids and a soft play area for tiny tots, with other activities for children all around.
I highly recommend this place for kids and adults."

Demetria Jackson

"This a great little hidden gem for anyone who has even the slightest interest in model railroading. Several displays with running trains. It's self guides but there are plenty of the staff to answer questions and provide detailed info on the displays. Well worth the modest entrance fee. There are things to do for the Littles in your group too."

Stevan Bull

What People Like

Expansive and immersive exhibits
Interactive elements for kids
Outdoor rides and playground

What People Dislike

STEAM room lacked activities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on Pass Road in Gulfport, Mississippi. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. TikTok

Information on public transportation options to the museum can be limited. Driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the Gulfport MS train museum. Reddit

The museum is designed to be explored sequentially, starting with the immersive ride and moving through the various exhibits. Staff are available to guide you. Reddit

Gulfport offers several attractions, including beaches and other family-friendly spots, making it a great destination for a day trip. Instagram

The museum is located at [Insert Address if available]. Use GPS for precise directions to the Gulfport model train museum. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific prices can vary, reviews suggest the entrance fee is modest and well worth the experience, especially considering the expanded offerings at the new location. Reddit

It's advisable to check the museum's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on purchasing tickets, especially for special events. Instagram

Information on discounts for the train museum Gulfport MS is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring directly with the museum. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, particularly for special events like holiday lights. It's recommended to check the museum's official channels for current hours. Instagram

For general visits, advance booking might not be strictly necessary, but for popular events or peak times, it's a good idea to secure your tickets early. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore elaborate model train displays, ride a miniature train, enjoy an indoor playground, participate in interactive exhibits, and design your own train art. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! It's perfect for families with kids of all ages, featuring interactive elements, play areas, and rides. InstagramReddit

Yes, many displays have 'I Spy' games, buttons to press, and even a train with a camera you can monitor. Reddit

The museum boasts clean and well-maintained restrooms, including family restrooms and a nursing room, plus a picnic area. Reddit

Yes, there's an immersive train ride experience at the start, and outdoor pedal trains and a miniature train ride. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full-service restaurant, there is a picnic area available for visitors who wish to bring their own food. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy it in the designated picnic area. Reddit

There are quarter machines for small treats, so bringing some cash is recommended for snacks. Reddit

Gulfport offers a variety of restaurants and eateries close to the museum, ranging from casual to sit-down dining. Instagram

The museum does not appear to have a dedicated cafe, but the picnic area and nearby dining options provide alternatives. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed, and the intricate displays and creative theming make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

The elaborate model train layouts, the interactive art exhibit, and the outdoor train rides offer excellent photo opportunities. Instagram

Video recording is typically permitted, allowing you to capture the movement of the trains and the overall atmosphere. Instagram

While generally permitted, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disrupt the displays or other guests. Reddit

Expect detailed shots of miniature landscapes, bustling train scenes, and fun family moments, especially with the interactive elements. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

TrainTastic is a paradise for families. The museum offers a fantastic blend of educational and entertaining activities for all ages. From the initial immersive train ride to the 'I Spy' games on the model train displays, there's constant engagement. Reddit The outdoor pedal trains and miniature train rides are a huge hit, as is the high-quality indoor playground with a separate soft play area for babies. Reddit Don't forget to bring cash for the quarter machines for extra fun! Reddit

🚂 Train Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for trains, TrainTastic is a must-visit. The museum boasts elaborate model train displays showcasing different eras and regions of American railroading, with impressive craftsmanship. Reddit The staff are knowledgeable and happy to share details about the intricate layouts. Reddit The sheer scale of the exhibits and the dedication evident in each display will undoubtedly impress any railfan. Reddit

🎨 Creative Explorers

Beyond the trains, TrainTastic offers a unique interactive art exhibit where you can design your own train and see it come to life on an animated screen. Reddit This creative outlet is a refreshing addition to the museum experience, appealing to those who enjoy hands-on artistic activities. The overall theming and creative displays also provide ample inspiration for budding artists. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution of TrainTastic

The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum, now known as TrainTastic Museum, has a rich history of growth and dedication. Initially established by the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Club, the museum has moved to progressively larger locations over the years. The current space on Pass Road in Gulfport, opened in June 2023, represents a significant expansion, allowing for more elaborate displays and a wider range of activities. TikTok This evolution is a testament to the passion of the volunteers and the community's support for this unique attraction. TikTok

The museum's journey highlights the commitment of its founders and members. What began as a local club's passion project has blossomed into a significant regional attraction. The move to the larger facility has enabled them to create a more immersive and comprehensive experience for visitors of all ages, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination on the Mississippi Coast. Reddit

An Immersive Experience for All Ages

TrainTastic is far more than just a collection of model trains; it's an immersive adventure designed to engage visitors from toddlers to adults. The experience begins with a unique train ride that gives the illusion of being miniature scale, setting the tone for the wonders to come. Reddit Following this, guests can explore a history section before diving into a vast array of model train displays. These exhibits are thoughtfully designed with interactive elements like 'I Spy' setups and buttons to activate features, making them engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

Beyond the intricate model layouts, TrainTastic offers a variety of other attractions. An outdoor area features pedal trains and a miniature train ride, which are often a highlight for children. Reddit For even more fun, there's a high-quality indoor playground with diverse climbing equipment suitable for different ages and abilities. The museum also includes a dedicated soft play area for babies, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have a safe and enjoyable space. Reddit The interactive art exhibit, where visitors can design their own trains to appear on an animated screen, adds a creative and modern touch to the experience. Reddit

Community and Volunteer Spirit

The success and magic of TrainTastic are largely attributed to the dedication of its volunteers. The Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Club plays a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the museum's exhibits and overall experience. TikTok This strong volunteer base ensures that the museum remains a vibrant and dynamic attraction, constantly evolving and offering new delights to visitors. Reddit

Visitors frequently praise the friendliness and enthusiasm of the staff and volunteers. Their willingness to share knowledge and engage with guests significantly enhances the overall visit. Reddit This community-driven approach creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making TrainTastic a true gem for families and train enthusiasts alike. TikTokReddit

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