News Summary
Novi, Michigan welcomed model railroad enthusiasts from across the nation for the annual National Model Railroad Association National Convention. Held from July 14-19, the event showcased an impressive variety of model railroad layouts and fostered connections among hobbyists. Attendees enjoyed guided tours led by experts and a special category of layout visits through Trains.com. NMRA President Gordy Robinson also announced upcoming events aimed at enhancing community engagement. This gathering emphasized creativity and innovation in model railroading while providing opportunities for learning, networking, and showcasing talent in the field.
Novi, Michigan served as the host city for the 2025 National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) National Convention, held from July 14-19. This annual event drew hobbyists and enthusiasts from across the nation, showcasing a vast array of model railroad layouts and providing opportunities for learning and networking.
Model Railroader Editor Eric White spearheaded a guided tour that highlighted numerous impressive model railroads during the convention. Attendees enjoyed a diverse collection of layouts, ranging from highly detailed designs to family-oriented themes. Some of the standout layouts included:
- Steve Smith’s HO scale freelanced Sierra Valley & Harbor Junction
- Dan Lewis’s N scale Milwaukee Road North Montana Line
- Mike Burgett’s operations-focused HO scale Chesapeake & Ohio Clifton Forge Division
- Brook and Jay Qualman’s family-inspired HO scale Michigan Lines
- Ken Chick’s N scale Danforth, Hadley & Northern
- Jim Talbot’s HO scale Wheeling & Lake Erie
- Rick Lecki’s expansive HO scale UP Fallen Flags
- The Blissfield Model Railroad Club’s C&O operations in HO scale
- Brooks Stover’s compact S scale Buffalo Creek & Gauley
For attendees looking for more extensive tours, the convention featured a special category called “Layout Visits,” available through Trains.com Video, showcasing additional HO and O scale layouts.
A key highlight was NMRA President Gordy Robinson’s announcement regarding the upcoming Trainfest 2025 event, scheduled for November 1 and 2 in downtown Milwaukee. Robinson outlined the NMRA’s objectives for the event, including new attractions to bolster engagement within the model railroading community.
During the convention, attendees had ample opportunities to participate in various hobby events, share knowledge, and experience firsthand the passion for model railroading. The gathering not only highlighted existing projects but also inspired participants to innovate in their own practices.
The NMRA National Convention is a significant occasion for model railroad enthusiasts, offering a platform to connect with like-minded individuals and showcase creative work. It emphasizes the art and engineering behind model railroads, with layouts that often reflect real-life railroads or incorporate imaginative themes.
Moreover, the event provided a unique atmosphere for hobbyists to meet vendors, learn about new products, and participate in workshops focused on different aspects of model railroading. With advancements in technology and design, such workshops are essential for enthusiasts seeking to enhance their skills.
Trains.com continues to play an important role in the community by providing updates and exclusive content related to NMRA events and model railroading in general. This support allows hobbyists to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the industry.
The NMRA National Convention not only serves as a celebration of model railroading but also as a source of inspiration for future generations of modelers. With gatherings such as these, the community remains vibrant and dedicated to preserving the rich tradition of model railroading.
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Additional Resources
- Trains.com: NMRA National Convention Layout Visits
- Wikipedia: Model Railroading
- Trains.com: Interview with NMRA President Gordy Robinson
- Google Search: Model Railroading News
- Trains.com: 2025 NMRA National Convention Overview
- Google Scholar: Model Railroading
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Model Railroad
- Google News: NMRA Convention
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
