Great Midwest Train Show

I'm planning on bringing the kids to this show on April 1st in Wheaton, Illinois.

Has anyone on here visited before and how is the "N" scale selection.

I just entered the hobby and for whatever reason I've been stocking up on locomotives (6 so far) and haven't picked a piece of rolling stock yet. So that's what I'm looking to pick-up.

Thanks,
Chris

 

Some months it's good, some months not so much. The best times are when someone is there in "flea market" mode, selling a personal collection. Otherwise (and usually) it's regular dealers that are there every month. There are a couple of regulars that have significant "N" product, the best probably being Grayland Station. Lately he's been in the main building, towards the right side as you walk in. The other one (the name escapes me) is in building #2 by the concessions.

Hope that helps,
Pete

 

I always go to the Great west Train show. I think they are the same orginazation. Here in Denver at least, there has always been a lot of N scale layouts. last time I was there, only about 6 vendors were selling N scale. But they had big selections. Most vendors were HO, and O. Regardless, I believe you will have a good time with the kids.

 

Thanks. This is addicting to say the least. I just ordered another locomotive (UP Chicago Northwestern Heritage) and have 2 additional on pre-order. My wife is gonna kill me.

 

Try one of their hot dogs back in the second building. There might be some N scale back there too. Mmmm

If you are getting addicted to N scale, you are normal. If you are worried about aquiring too much N scale, then do not go to the show. Then again, if she is going to kill you anyways, go to the show and buy lots!

 

When I lived in the area, I went just about every month. As people have mentioned, there are the "usual suspects" there but sometimes I found that just scouring the tables found me some real gems in unlikely places. Just to let you know, for new items, I usually did better price wise from my online hobby shop (OHS) who also happens to be a Trainboard advertiser.

Andy
Tetsu Uma

 

I find that having a second job eliminates DEATH! I get what I want when I want. As long as I take her out once in a while, I'm still breathing! LOL

 

Lol..... Yeah I had one of those and it made all the difference in the world. However we are fortunate and in good secure professions..... there's disposable income for toys.

 

How about posting pics of the things you get at the train show?

 

Will do.... the shows April 1st

 

Wheaton is hit or miss. It's better in November and December. N scale is tough to find there, as it's really geared toward HO and Lionel/O scale. It's worth the visit though, especially if you know what you're looking for and the market value of stuff.