Other Layouts at the HMR

In addition to our HO main layout, we maintain five additional displays that highlight the depth and variety of model railroading.

Each layout represents a different scale, era, or style of operation. From narrow-gauge industrial lines and early tinplate favorites to modern, highly detailed replicas, we've got it all covered. 

Together, the other 5 scales we have in our building show how the hobby has evolved over the past century, and how different scales change what’s possible. We invite you to explore each one below and discover what makes it unique when you visit us!

N scale trains are built to a 1:160 ratio, meaning one real foot is reduced to just 1/12 of an inch on the model. The scale originated in Europe during the early 1960s and soon spread worldwide because it offered something new: the ability to run realistic-looking trains and full mainline scenery in a very compact space. By the 1970s, N scale had become the second most popular model railroading scale in North America, appealing especially to hobbyists who wanted long trains, sweeping scenery, or realistic operations without needing a large room.

Today, N scale continues to thrive thanks to advances in manufacturing, detailing, and electronics. Modern N scale locomotives feature high-quality mechanisms, sound systems, and fine detailing that rival larger scales, all while preserving the small footprint that makes the scale so flexible.

Our N scale layout is located our lobby, near the workshop entrance. It showcases the strengths of the scale, with a double track mainline run, and scenery that feels expansive despite the small size. The layout has various equipment that highlights how N scale has grown from its modest beginnings into a favorite among serious model railroaders wanting to save space.

G Scale is one of the largest model railroad scales in common use, typically built around a ratio of 1:22.5 for narrow-gauge prototypes (though several closely related scales share the “G scale” label). The scale first rose to prominence in the 1960s and 70s when European manufacturers such as LGB began producing durable, weather-resistant trains designed for outdoor use. This opened the door to an entirely new idea in the hobby: the garden railway.

Because of their large size, G scale trains allow for exceptional detail and rugged construction. They are easy to see, easy to handle, and ideal for younger hobbyists or outdoor displays. Over time, the scale has expanded to include everything from whimsical starter sets to highly detailed, museum-quality models representing railroads from around the world.

Our G scale display layout is located around the ceiling in our lobby! The layout demonstrates the unique appeal of large-scale model railroading while celebrating the joy and creativity that G scale has brought to the hobby. Future plans include a garden layout outdoors, but that is way ahead in our future. 

O Scale trains are built to a 1:48 ratio, meaning one-quarter of an inch on the model equals one foot on the real train. The scale was first introduced in the 1920s by the European manufacturer Märklin, who called it “Zero Gauge” to distinguish it from the larger and more expensive “Number 1 Gauge” that was common at the time. American manufacturers soon adopted Zero Gauge for their more affordable toy train lines, while still producing the larger premium-priced trains for wealthier buyers.

When the Great Depression hit in the 1930s, the market for high-end toy trains collapsed. Zero Gauge, now renamed O Gauge, became the standard toy train size in the United States thanks to its balance of realism, size, and price. Over the decades, O Gauge trains have remained closely associated with the Lionel brand, which helped make toy trains a beloved part of American childhood for generations.

Our O Scale layout is located beneath the eastern side of the HO layout, right near the entrance to the layout room. It features a dog-bone-style outer loop for continuous running, along with a separate inner track reserved for operating accessories. A small yard at the northern end provides additional switching and storage. The layout includes a mix of vintage and modern Lionel equipment, showcasing how the scale has evolved over time. Controllers are positioned along the aisle so children (With adult supervision!)  can operate the accessories and enjoy a hands-on experience with O-gauge railroading.

S-scale trains are built to a 1:64 ratio, meaning three-sixteenths of an inch on the model equals one foot on a real train. The scale first appeared in the 1930's through the Cleveland Model Supply Company, but it truly gained momentum in 1937 when A.C. Gilbert adopted it for the American Flyer line after purchasing the brand from its original Chicago-based owner. Gilbert wanted his trains to stand apart, and the slightly smaller S-scale allowed him to produce models that were better proportioned and more realistic than many of the larger trains of the era.

Early American Flyer models operated on three-rail track, but following World War II Gilbert introduced “realistic” two-rail track to the line. This innovation became a major selling point during the friendly rivalry with Lionel through the 1950s and 60s. Although American Flyer production ended in 1967 with the bankruptcy of the A.C. Gilbert Company (and the brand name eventually landed with Lionel) S-scale modeling never disappeared. It continued through dedicated collectors and modern manufacturers such as American Models, MTH, and ScaleTrains, all of whom have helped the scale thrive into the present day.

Our S Scale display layout is located beneath the western aisle of the HO layout. It features a dog-bone style mainline with a passing siding and a compact industrial yard at the south end, allowing for both continuous running and small-scale switching operations. Unlike the original American Flyer trains, which used AC power, our layout runs on simple DC control. This lets us operate both classic and modern S-scale locomotives. Along the layout you’ll also find several interactive accessories with push-buttons so younger visitors (and the young at heart!) can take part in the action.

On30 is a narrow-gauge modeling scale where O Scale trains (1:48 ratio) run on standard HO Scale track. The 16.5 mm track spacing represents real-world 30-inch (2½-foot) gauge railroads, which were commonly used in mining, logging, industrial service, and rugged or lightly populated areas where standard-gauge railroads weren’t practical.

Although O Scale narrow-gauge modeling has existed for decades, On30 became especially popular in the early 2000s when manufacturers such as Bachmann introduced affordable ready-to-run locomotives and rolling stock. This brought narrow-gauge modeling to a wider audience, combining the larger size and detail of O Scale with the tighter curves and compact layouts made possible by HO-gauge track.

The appeal of On30 lies in its personality and presence. Trains are larger and easier to see than HO or N, yet the narrow-gauge proportions give them a charming, work-worn character. The equipment often reflects small-scale and industrial railroading, short trains, lighter track, and dramatic scenery.

Our On30 layout is located beneath the southern aisle of the HO layout. It features compact narrow-gauge track arrangements, a small station with a water tower, and detailed scenic areas that capture the spirit of small-town logging and industrial railroading. At this time, the layout is primarily a static display.