April 25 & 26, 2025
RailFest is a celebration of model train enthusiasts who rally to show off their large scale model trains. The event includes live entertainment, exhibits and vendors. The event takes place inside the fully restored 1932 train depot and continues out to the Garden of Steam located adjacent to the 5 acre railyard. Weather permitting, caboose rides are offered each day at regularly scheduled intervals on the Harborside Express. A family event, hours are: Saturday, April 26, 10 am – 5 pm, and Sunday, April 27, 10 am – 5 pm.
Model train builders from across the nation center the event with their large moving displays. Event admission is Members $15; Non- Member Adults, $20; Seniors and active military $12; Kids 14 and under, $10; 2 & Under Free. All proceeds benefit the educational programs at the Galveston Railroad Museum.
RailFest 2025 is promoted through an aggressive marketing campaign that includes TV, radio and print ads, and social media targeting the regional community. Concessions are provided in the Whistlestop Café offering adult beverages and light meals. We anticipate approximately 1,500 visitors to the event each day.
Ranked among the top 5 railroad museums in the nation, the Center for Transportation and Commerce features one of a kind restored historic trains, interactive railcar exhibits, art and museum store with commemorative merchandise, and ongoing railroad related films in the auditorium. Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Galveston anchoring the Strand, The Galveston Railroad Museum, home to one of the few Rail Hotels in the country, hosts more than 200,000 tourists, cruise ship passengers and regional visitors annually. The museum is supported by membership, grants, contributions, admission, and special events.
