Looking for the ideal holiday gift for the train enthusiast in your life? We’ve got you covered with this curated list of unique and exciting items from the Trains.com store. This year’s guide features a fantastic array of products sure to make any railfan or modeler happy.
1. Model Railroader 2026 Calendar
Stay on track with a year full of stunning model railroad photography. The 2026 calendar features Rod Stewart’s spectacular layout, perfect for keeping tabs on important dates.
Enjoy 12 spectacular layouts encompassing a range of scales, locations, and railroads.
In addition, the calendar also includes a bonus section featuring “10 household items you can use in model railroading.” Several well-known modelers shared some of their favorite tips that you can use on your layout or around your workbench.
2. Great Model Railroads 2026
See the best layouts of the year and get ahead of the curve for your modeling plans in 2026.
Great Model Railroads 2026 features longtime Model Railroader contributor Gerry Leone’s most recent version of his famous Bona Vista model railroad, several features from contributing editor Lou Sassi, and modeling in HO, HOn3, and N scales.
Dive deep into the world of model railroads with this special issue packed with nearly 90 photos and how-to tips, perfect for the DIY modeler in your life. Explore track plans and layout stories that inspire.
3. Test Track with Rerailer – HO Scale, Code 83
The 36-inch HO scale test track from GoodDealsDCC lets you program decoders, conduct routine maintenance, and handle other tasks with ease. Built from sturdy, non-warping PVC and equipped with Code 83 rail, soldered joiners, and a built-in rerailer, it stays moisture-resistant and reliable. Foam bumpers, soft padded feet that won’t scratch surfaces, and pre-wired connectors complete the design, making it fully compatible with both DC and DCC systems.
4. Canadian National Family Tree Throw Blanket
This throw blanket features the family tree of Canadian National, the railroad that experienced the most expansion in the past two and a half decades. Exclusively from Trains magazine.
Wrap yourself in the history of Canadian National, the railroad that has seen the greatest growth over the last 25 years, with this exclusive throw blanket from Trains magazine. Crafted from 100% polyester with a luxurious silk-touch finish, it showcases vibrant printing on one side and a crisp white reverse. Hypoallergenic, flame-retardant, and fully machine-washable, this blanket is sourced from China and made on demand just for you—helping minimize overproduction while ensuring each order is thoughtfully fulfilled.
5. Amtrak’s History Through Its Equipment
Explore Amtrak’s dramatic evolution through its rolling stock in Amtrak’s History Through Its Equipment, penned by renowned rail historian and author Brian Solomon. This engaging volume charts the company’s journey from its early days relying on secondhand “Heritage Fleet” coaches and vintage diesels to the high-speed Acela expresses and innovative Siemens trains shaping modern U.S. passenger rail.
Brimming with striking full-color images and detailed analysis, it’s essential reading for rail enthusiasts, model railroaders, and train lovers alike. Trace the turbulent 1970s, the reliability brought by the F40PH and GE Genesis locomotives, and the forward-looking ALC42 and Venture series heralding a greener era. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just discovering the rails, this book offers a vivid, authoritative account of Amtrak’s enduring legacy.
6. Lights, Camera, Lionel Trains! A Photo History of an American Icon
This award-winning book is a visual journey through the cultural impact of Lionel electric trains in 20th century America.
Lights, Camera, Lionel Trains! A Photo History of an American Icon presents 100 photo essays showcasing how these iconic toys became intertwined with American life, from childhood play to celebrity nostalgia.
7. Great Scale Modeling 25-Year Archive DVD-ROM
For the first time ever, 25 years of Great Scale Modeling special issues are available on one DVD-ROM.
Check out more than 2,500 stunning models from around the world, including models from Pat Hawkey, Shep Paine, Dan Jayne, Roy Sorenson, Paul Boyer, and more.
Get inspiration and ideas from the biggest modeling shows and contests in the U.S. along with the recent reader builds, portfolios from master modelers, modeling tips and tricks, and how-to articles.
Easily search each issue, view, zoom in, and bookmark every informative article on your computer.
8. Arduino Projects
In Arduino Projects, authors Paul and David Bradt demonstrate how affordable Arduino and Raspberry Pi microcontrollers can manage sound, lighting, and crossing signals, as well as everything from simple to sophisticated signaling setups. Integrating these boards with the free, open-source Java Model Railroad Interface (JMRI) software opens up a ton of possibilities. This book covers the essentials of programming and deploying Arduino and Raspberry Pi units, techniques for animating crossing flashers and other illumination effects, strategies for linking Arduinos to detection software to track trains and monitor their progress, and a wealth of additional ideas and applications.
9. Union Pacific Family Tree Pint Glass
This pint glass features the family tree of the Union Pacific railroad, which dates back to the original transcontinental railroad. Exclusively from Trains magazine.
10. Excel Self-Healing Cutting Mat- 12″ X 18″
This self-healing cutting mat is the perfect safe surface for using cutting tools on any of your modeling parts or other projects. The grid is calibrated with one-inch patterns, as well as commonly used angles and arcs. Phthalate free and absorbs cuts from a hobby knife, it helps protect the surfaces around your work area to keep them cut free. Made from PVC.
Make this holiday season extra special for the railfan or modeler on your list with these carefully selected gifts, and don’t forget to check out the huge selection of gear, memorabilia, books, and more at shop.trains.com.
