Events

Juniper Junction

Explore a captivating world of large-scale trains and buildings.

Content Detail

Visit on Saturday, February 15, to see the opening of Juniper Junction—a new, large-scale model train display at the Arboretum’s Firefly Pavilion. After the opening event, Juniper Junction will close for winter weather conditions and will reopen the following week on Saturday, February 22, through Sunday, March 2. Entrance to Juniper Junction is included with Arboretum general admission.

Large-scale model railroading displays like Juniper Junction use trains that are significantly larger than standard model railroading. Also called “garden railroads,” large-scale model railroads offer a captivating landscape for viewers of all ages to enjoy.

Children will be immersed in a world of trains and buildings built to their scale, while adults admire the true-to-life details and expert craftsmanship.

Juniper Junction is assembled and run in partnership with the LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago.

Event Details

Juniper Junction will be open on Saturday, February 15, and from Saturday, February 22, through Sunday, March 2, 2025.

The exhibition will be located in the Firefly Pavilion, an indoor-outdoor event space on the Arboretum’s East Side. Please dress for the weather.

Please note that Juniper Junction may close due to inclement weather to ensure the safety of train operators and volunteers.

Refreshments will be available to purchase at the Ginkgo Restaurant and the Ginkgo Café, both located in the Visitor Center.

Ticket Details

Entrance to Juniper Junction is included with Arboretum admission.

Guests may visit the exhibition anytime from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. No advance registration is required.

LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago

The LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago is an association of enthusiasts dedicated to promoting the hobby of large-scale indoor and outdoor railroading and fostering dialog among large-scale railroaders.

Food Options

Refreshments are available to purchase at the Ginkgo Restaurant and the Ginkgo Café, both located in the Visitor Center.

The Ginkgo Restaurant is open Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Bakery items, salads, and sandwiches may be purchased at the Ginkgo Café from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Espresso beverages, hot tea, and drip coffee are also available at the café.

Map

The Firefly Pavilion can be reached from Parking Lot 1 via paved, accessible paths.

From Parking Lot 1, approach the Visitor Center and pass through the breezeway into Arbor Court. Continue straight into The Gerard T. Donnelly Grand Garden and across the central plaza. Exit The Grand Garden and turn left onto a paved path. Take the next right onto another paved path, which will bring you to the east entrance of the Firefly Pavilion.

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