OK folks. In reference to Chip’s (Spacemouse) dilemma when visiting Northern Virginia, I’m starting a thread of local hobby/train shops that are worth visiting if someone is in the area. Let’s keep this on the positive side and avoid those who are not worth the trip.
Please add to the list, and I will compile the whole thing. If this works out, we’ll put the information on a web site somewhere where the list can be added to, changed, etc as times change.
This is NOT an advertising mechanism, but rather a list of recommendations for people who are venturing out and want to stop by a quality shop.
Here is my initial contribution and a few comments. In no particular order:
Northern California (Bay Area)
Just Trains, Concord, CA. Closed Mondays. As the name says, exclusively trains. Decent selection, prices around retail, very friendly and helpful staff. Mostly HO, some N and large scale. Store has an HO layout running its entire length (90+ feet). www.just-trains.com
The Train Shop, Santa Clara, CA. Closed Mondays. Exclusively trains. Great selection, prices generally lower than retail, friendly and very helpful staff. Sometimes very busy. Mostly HO, some N and large scale. Good book selection. Usually has a decent brass selection, and also stock a lot of parts. No web site, unfortunately.
Colorado
Custom Railway Supply, Colorado Springs. Exclusively trains. Good selection, mostly HO with some N and some larger scales. Manufacturer some brass stampings that are sold elsewhere. Staff is friendly and helpful. No web site that I know of.
Sunbird Train Mart, Colorado Springs. Exclusively trains. Good selection, mostly HO with a decent N selection. Staff is friendly and helpful. A couple of layouts in the store, possibly to demonstrate products/techniques. Open 7 days a week. www.sunbirdtrainmart.com
Caboose Hobbies</