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I am sure that many of us remember model trains, model cars, model airplanes, and other such toys that could be found in almost any toy store. Today, those toys aren’t as popular as they used to be and could even be considered vintage, but for many of us, the memories live on. Commerce Michigan has taken this piece of history one step farther, and is actually home to the world’s largest O-scale model train layout. The size of their models are 1:48, meaning for every 1” on their model, it represents 48” in real life. While there are some smaller models that are larger than this one, Chi-town Union Station boasts having the biggest and the best of the O-scale.

This two-rail track complete with running trains also boasts the world’s longest model train. In 2010, the successfully ran a model train on one of their permanent indoor tracks that measured 1,112.06 feet long, complete with 1205 cars and 26 locomotives. Total weight of this monstrous model was close to 1400 pounds, that’s over ½ a ton! This train navigated successfully over a track that consisted of hills, curves, and bridges.

Chi-town Union got its start from a private collection that was quickly outgrowing its home at the time. This collection took over 30 years to organize, and moved to its 10,000-square foot warehouse in 1999, where it finally had the room to expand to what its owner always wanted it to be. The space as designed for spectators, and much of the laid track is actually out view, so visitors are always surprised at which point a train might pop up. No Commerce tutor, was needed for this one, most of it operates under computers, with 30-35 trains moving via this method. The collections crown jewel is Chi-town Union station, for which the display got its name. It’s comprised of the seven major stations found in downtown Chicago back when travel by train was the thing to do. Dozens of scale model trains designed to look exactly like the luxury cars of the past come in and out of the station and predesignated times, all coordinated by a computer system.

You can think of the setup as an elaborate dance, everything balanced perfectly to put on a great show for those watching. If you happen to have a spare moment after meeting with your Commerce tutor, it might be interesting to stop by and see this unique display.