National Model Railroad Association
The National Model Railroad Association, Inc. advances the global-scale model railroading community through education, advocacy, standards, and social interaction.
The National Model Railroad Association, a 501(c)(3) not not-for-profit educational organization, was founded at the first National Convention over Labor Day Weekend, 1935. The initial goal was to develop standards for scale model railroad equipment to facilitate interchangeability and operation of equipment between modelers, clubs, and others.
Today, the NMRA is a worldwide organization, with over 16,000 active members, associates, families, and clubs dedicated to the hobby of scale model railroading in all its facets, supporting a hobby of many diverse interests that all relate to the greater world of trains and railroads.
Gulf Coast Model Railroad
Gulf Coast Model Railroad & Hobby Shop is Sarasota’s #1 model train and railroad accessories store. We specialize in HO and N scale locomotives, buildings, rolling stock, track, scenery supplies, scratch building supplies, and model railroad accessories. In Addition, we buy and sell model railroad equipment, and provide train appraisals and repairs. We also offer items for consignment.
Sarasota Toy Museum
The Sarasota Toy Museum promises a nostalgic journey with its impressive model railroad and vast collection of vintage toys. Owned by Richard Pierson, the museum features a professionally built HO scale train layout by David Frary, showcasing seasonal transitions and over 28,000 handmade trees. Additionally, the museum will display a diverse array of antique toys, from cap guns and tin toys to vintage lunch boxes and Star Wars collectibles. The museum aims to offer an engaging experience for all visitors, especially those with disabilities, who will enjoy free admission.
Florida Railroad Museum
The Florida Railroad Museum, Inc. was founded as The Florida Gulf Coast Railroad Museum with the stated goal of preserving Florida’s railroad history. Over the years, the Museum has acquired and preserved rolling stock and equipment to operate for the public’s enjoyment. We hope our visitors appreciate the sights and sounds of Florida railroading as it existed in the 1940s and 1950s.The Museum is a Non-Profit Organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.