*This is a sponsored article.
If your kids light up every time they see a train, The Train Depot at Stony Point is absolutely their spot. Located at Stony Point Fashion Park (next to the Discovery Center), this space feels like stepping into a miniature rail world full of movement, sound, and nostalgia. Kids get to watch model trains chug along in the most mesmerizing way.
Who Runs the Train Depot?
The Train Depot is run by the Virginia Train Collectors Association (VTCA), a nonprofit organization based in Richmond dedicated to preserving and promoting the hobby of model railroading. This hidden gem is:
All volunteer-run: The layouts, wiring, scenery, and operations are created and maintained by passionate volunteers.
Community-focused: Their mission is to share the joy of trains with kids, families, and anyone who loves watching tiny worlds come to life.
Nonprofit: Support goes directly toward maintaining layouts, expanding displays, and keeping open houses free and accessible.
What to Expect
When Macaroni KID families walk through the doors, here’s what they’ll find:
Nine operating train layouts
Different Model Train Sizes and Styles, including:
- Garden (G) scale
- O gauge
- S gauge
- HO scale
A Kid’s Zone
Hands-on areas where children can:
- Watch trains up close
- Explore interactive elements
- Sometimes help “run” parts of the layout under supervision
Interactive Experiences
Trains weaving through tunnels, over bridges and past tiny towns. Kids can follow their favorite engine around the track and discover new details every time.
Seasonal Theme Displays
Special scenes for holidays and commemorations (like military appreciation, Americana themes, and more) keep repeat visits exciting.
Hours
Open houses are typically on select weekends (often Saturdays), and hours can vary. The Train Depot will open once a month this summer:
- June 13th - Stars & Stripes
- July 18th- All Aboard America
- August 15th- The Homecoming Express
How Families Can Support The Train Depot
Because this space is powered by a nonprofit and volunteers, every bit of support matters. Here are easy ways Macaroni KID readers can help:
- Visit open houses
- Bring the kids, grandparents, and friends.
- Admission is FREE!
- Spread the word
- Share photos and videos on social media.
- Tag The Train Depot and Stony Point Fashion Park.
- Add it to your “things to do with kids in Richmond” list when talking to other parents.
- Become a member of VTCA
- Adults who love trains can join the Virginia Train Collectors Association. Kids ages 18 and under can join for FREE!
- Membership supports the layouts, events, and educational outreach.
- Volunteer your time or skills
- Love model trains, building scenery, or working with kids?
- VTCA welcomes volunteers to help operate trains, maintain layouts, and host open houses.
- Donate
- Financial contributions help with repairs, new layouts, and keeping the space family-friendly and free to visit.
Our Visit to The Train Depot
My 11‑year‑old railfan and I had the chance to visit The Train Depot last weekend during their open house and the Train & Toy Show & Sale. I was blown away by how many train layouts filled the space. The miniature towns, the variety of trains, and all the tiny details were incredible. What I loved most was seeing generations of railfans connecting through their shared love of trains. The volunteers were so friendly and knowledgeable, and my son was thrilled to visit The Train Depot for a second time. He’s already asking when we can go back again. I highly recommend visiting The Train Depot. Make it a fun experience by pairing a visit with lunch at Stony Point, a walk around the mall, or a movie from CinéBistro. It will be well worth the time!
