NMRA National Convention — Scenic City Express

The NMRA National Convention is the pinnacle of American model railroading events. Held in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 2026 under the "Scenic City Express" banner, this week-long gathering brings together the hobby's finest modelers, educators, and enthusiasts. The convention features dozens of clinics taught by master modelers covering every aspect of the hobby from scenery to electronics. The NMRA Contest showcases the best models in the country competing for national recognition. Layout tours take attendees into private homes to see spectacular model railroads. The National Train Show opens the event to the public with a massive vendor hall and operating layouts. Prototype tours visit real railroad facilities. For serious modelers, there is no more important event on the calendar.