2027 Model Train Show
Lincoln Square · 100 West High St · Urbana, Illinois
April 3–4, 2027
Free Admission
Flyers and Forms
Show Flyer (PDF) Half-Page Show Flyer (PDF) Vendor or Layout Application (PDF)
Send forms to: 105 E Benham St, Tolono, IL 61880
Featuring
“Make and Take” Activity
Modelers of all ages are invited to construct a model railroad car which is compatible with the Brio wooden track system. Model train cars include a steam locomotive, locomotive tender, gondola, boxcar, tank car, and caboose. Selection is limited to availability during the Lincoln Square Train Show. NMRA Illinois Terminal Division instructors will be available to assist with construction of the model. Participants under the age of 18 are required to be accompanied by an adult during construction. Participation in the activity is free. However, donations used to support the activity are accepted.
Operating Layouts
Enjoy the train show featuring operating layouts in G, HO, and N scales, including a layout where the public can make the train move as it switches cars on the layout.
Vendors
The train show features numerous vendors selling new and used items in G, O, HO, and N scales:
- Model train sets, locomotives and cars
- Track and switches
- Electronic equipment to operate the trains and accessories
- Model semi-trucks and trailers, pickup trucks and cars
- Kits for building structures and houses
- Scenery materials to build the scenic landscape along the railroad
- Railroad-related photographs and books
Interested in selling or displaying? See Vendors & Layouts.
Information Booths
The NMRA booth has information about model railroading. Historical groups can provide information about the history of railroads located in Central Illinois:
- Monticello Railway Museum
- Illinois Traction Society
- Danville Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society
- Chicago and Eastern Illinois Railroad Historical Society
- Champaign, Havana and Western Railroad Historical Society
4th Annual Urbana Free-Mo Open (UFO)
Starting at noon on Saturday. Join the host Free-Mo group, the illustrious Illini Railroad Club, other local Free-Mo enthusiasts and folks like you as we seek to fill up a 150′ × 40′ hall with Free-Mo modules and operations!
- Saturday Free-Mo hours: noon to 8 pm
- Sunday hours: 9 am to 4 pm
- Registration is free!
The Venue
Lincoln Square has free parking and is wheelchair accessible.
Refreshments on site
- Hilton's Hotel Royer should be open
- Common Ground Food Co-op deli, on the east side through the diagonal hallway near the east entrance
- Lazy Daisy Diner & Café
- Patricio’s Pizza & More
- JM’s Texas Craft BBQ (coming later this year/early 2026)
Refreshments off site
- Baldarotta’s Porketta & Sicilian Sausage will deliver
Show Contact
Brought to you by the Illinois Terminal Division of the National Model Railroad Association.
For information, contact Mike Lehman, Lincoln Square Train Show Coordinator.
