Travel Thursdays: We Bet You Didn’t Know There Was A Miniature City In Washington State.

by Sherri Adams

Washington State is full of exciting destinations for adventure seekers. Whether you enjoy exploring the great outdoors or learning something new at one of our many museums, the Evergreen State has plenty to offer. Although you’re probably familiar with our state’s major cities, we’d be willing to bet you might not know a miniature city in Washington is nestled inside the Washington State History Museum.The Washington State History Museum is located at 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402.

Steve Morgan, via Wkipedia Commons

Inside the museum’s historic brick exterior, you’ll find the largest model railroad on permanent display in Washington.

Built and maintained by Puget Sound Model Railroad Engineers, the display features familiar Washington State landmarks.

Puget Sound Model Railroad Engineers

Look closely and see how many of those landmarks you can pick out. Mount Rainier towers over the miniature village, featuring replicas of Union Station, Stampede Pass tunnel, Almond Roca Factory, and Puyallup’s Meeker Mansion.

Meticulous attention to detail makes this thoughtfully curated exhibit a visitor favorite.

Washington State Historical Society

With a theme of Washington in the 1950s, you’ll notice train cars and equipment representing Union Pacific, Northern Pacific, Milwaukee Road, and Great Northern Railroads.

Washington State History Museum/Facebook

Construction on the 1700-square-foot display began in 1996 and continues to evolve with the addition of new scenery.

EHBTexas/Trip Advisor

Truly a work of art, the railroad exhibit is a fully functioning display of city life in Tacoma in the ’50s.

During the holiday season, the History Museum is transformed into a world of model trains.

EHBTexas/Trip Advisor

From late December through early January, model train clubs descend on the museum for an annual Model Train Festival. Model train enthusiasts set up elaborate displays throughout the museum in a lively celebration that delights visitors young and old.

Visit the exhibit on the museum’s fifth floor Tuesdays through Sundays.

Washington State History Museum/Facebook

Tickets for entrance to the train display and all museum exhibits can be purchased in person on the Washington State History Museum website.

The Washinton State History Museum’s model train exhibit is an educational glimpse into city life in the 1950s that we’re certain you’ll love. Visit the Washington State History Museum website for more details and special events.

Have you visited the Washington State History Museum? What did you think of the miniature train exhibit? Let us know in the comments.

Address: Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA

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Feature Photo Credit: Flickr

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