The Milwaukee School of Engineering’s model railroad group sponsors an annual train show at the campus March 5 and 6, and it is a good introduction to model railroading as it features portable layouts in Z, N, HO, S, O (including traction). The large permanent HO layout of the MSOE group is an important part of the show, and there are some vendors, mostly of a swap meet variety.
There is also a large 800ft loop of live steam-sized trains that can be ridden. The cost is free (donations are accepted) and refreshments are available on site. They offer a Steamer Special deal on hotdogs, chips and soda. Here is info:
http://some.groups.msoe.edu/TrainTime/index.shtml
The show is not huge by any means but it is possible to spend a couple of hours there; it is probably perfect for parents with kids who get exhausted by trainfest or other big shows
Right across the street and also on the MSOE campus is their extraordinary art gallery featuring paintings and sculture all of which is on theme of “men at work.” The current special exhibition may be of special interest because it has a focus on great lakes shipping and the Port of Milwaukee in particular, with large color and black and white photos. They also have a gift shop with interesting books for sale. Worth checking out. Admission is charged.
http://www.msoe.edu/about_msoe/manatwork/exhibitions.shtml
Dave Nelson