San Diego Model Railroad Museum
San Diego Model railroad museum
Located in Balboa Park
Hours: Wednesday - Sunday from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Resident Free Thursday January 8, 2026.
Balboa Park Parking Update
Beginning January 5, 2026, the Balboa Park Cultural District will transition to paid parking as part of a new City of San Diego program. Most parking lots and on-street spaces will be enforced from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, with rates varying by lot and location.
On-street meters: $2.50/hour (up to $10/day)
Parking lots: Daily fees range from approximately $5–$16 depending on proximity to park attractions.
Resident discounts: Verified City of San Diego residents qualify for reduced rates and parking passes (monthly, quarterly, annual).
Free parking options: Some lots offer up to 3 hours free and ADA accessible parking remains free for eligible vehicles.
Tram service: Free tram service will continue to operate throughout the park.
Please plan ahead and consider alternate transportation when visiting. Learn more here: https://www.sandiego.gov/parking/balboapark
Kids 12 and under get into the museum for free with paid adult admission
GET INVOLVED
We rely on generous donations to continue providing programs, family celebrations, and ground breaking exhibits for everyone!
Membership is an excellent way to show your support while enjoying valuable benefits. Join us today, have fun for a whole year!
Share your love for fun and adventure by volunteering! We offer training, flexible hours, discounts, free passes, and more!
what’s online
Events
Education
Our library
Permanent Exhibitions
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is 27,000 square feet of trains, tracks, and trestles in the heart of Balboa Park. Our beloved train museum showcases the history of railroading across Southern California. If you’re looking for fun things to do in San Diego, look no further than SDMRM!
