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If you have a train-loving kiddo—or you’re a lifelong hobbyist yourself—the Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club is one of those hidden gems that surprises almost everyone who visits. It’s friendly, fascinating, and full of intricate model train layouts that kids and adults can watch for ages.
Below you’ll find everything you need to know before you go, plus helpful tips and FAQs for families.
🚂 If you’re raising a train enthusiast, check out our Train Lover’s Guide to Milwaukee — a roundup of the best train experiences in southeastern Wisconsin.
Quick Overview for Families
- Free admission (suggested $2 donation)
- Large, detailed Lionel train layouts
- Best for: kids who love trains, grandparents + grandkids outings, hobbyists
- Open Oct–Apr on weekends and select nights
- Located in New Berlin
What Is the Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club?
The Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the classic Lionel model railroading tradition. Inside, you’ll find a huge operating layout, historic trains, interactive displays, and friendly club members who love answering questions.
It’s a relaxed, low-key outing that’s perfect for families, especially during the colder months.
Location, Hours & Admission
📍 Address:
2721 South Calhoun Road, New Berlin (in the rear of Parkland Plaza)
Tip: The entrance can be a little tricky to spot since the club sits behind Parkland Plaza. Parking is plentiful, but it’s helpful to pull up directions ahead of time so you know exactly where to enter.
Hours (October–April):
- Fridays: 1–9 PM
- Weekends: 1–5 PM
- First Wednesday of most months
Admission: Free with a suggested $2 donation per person.
Weather Note: Closed during significant snowfall. Call 262-754-9900 before you go.
What You’ll See Inside
- A massive operating Lionel train layout with multiple lines running at once
- Buttons kids can push to activate buildings or features
- Vintage Lionel engines and cars
- Miniature towns, tunnels, bridges, and scenes set in different eras
- Club members running trains and happy to explain the setup
The detail is stunning, and trains run often so kids stay engaged.
Highlights of the Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club
Hands-On Fun for Kids
Children can operate smaller train setups, and both kids and adults love pressing the buttons that bring the miniature scenes to life – from spinning merry-go-rounds to twinkling streetlights and animated buildings.
Toy Train Layouts
The highlight of the club is its large, detailed toy-train layout, designed to showcase different eras, landscapes, and classic Lionel styles. There’s always something moving, glowing, or surprising you, which keeps young visitors especially engaged.
Festival Days & Open House Events
Beyond regular hours, the Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club hosts several special events throughout the year, including an annual Open House and the popular Festival of Trains. These days offer an expanded experience with extra layouts, demonstrations, and hands-on displays for all ages.
Is the Milwaukee Lionel Railroad Club Good for Kids?
Absolutely. It’s great for:
- Toddlers and preschoolers who love watching trains
- School-age kids interested in how things work
- Grandparent outings
- Cold-weather afternoons
The space is stroller-friendly, and visits typically last 30–60 minutes.
Tips for Visiting
- Go right at opening on weekends if you want a quieter visit.
- Bring a few dollars for the donation box.
- Photos are encouraged—kids love seeing themselves next to the layouts.
What Our Readers Say
Here’s a recent message from one of our Instagram followers:
Other Train-Themed Things To Do Near Milwaukee
If you want to keep the train fun going, families also love:
- East Troy Electric Railroad — ride a historic electric trolley
- The Hop Streetcar — free to ride in Downtown Milwaukee
- Imagination Station — Local train-themed playground
- Annual Train Show at the Domes
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
