Iowa City Train Show 2026

Public collector show with dealers, displays and hobby activities.

By Convention & Expo Magazine · Planning guide · Listing facts checked 2026-10-10

At a glance

When: Oct 18, 2026
Where: Johnson County Fairgrounds
4261 Oak Crest Hill Rd SE, Iowa City, IA 52246
Iowa City, IA
Who can attend: Open to the public
Admission: Paid admission. Check the organizer for current prices and fees.
Organizer: Hawkeye Model Railroad Club

Official show information & tickets ↗

Before you book

Public adult admission $5; children twelve and under and Scouts in uniform free. Show occupies Buildings B and C.

Check the official page for current prices, availability, registration deadlines and what each pass includes. A general entry pass may not cover every activity. Price and professional eligibility are separate: free registration can still require industry credentials.

Dates, hours and access

2026-10-18 · Johnson County Fairgrounds · Hours not confirmed · America/Chicago · Public attendance period

Announced attendance dates are listed with their access rules. Hours are shown only when confirmed. Check the organizer for pass-specific access and changes.

Decide what you want to play, trade or buy

Make a short wish list with preferred editions, condition and a spending ceiling. Bring a checklist for a collection rather than relying on memory. For playable activities, check the organizer’s schedule for any registration deadline or separately ticketed tournament.

Inspect before agreeing to a purchase

Ask the seller to describe condition and what is included. For cards and other collectibles, compare the item with its label and ask for a clear receipt. Store purchases in suitable sleeves, boxes or a protective case.

Leave time for discovery

Walk the floor once before committing your full budget, then return to priority vendors. Ask permission before handling displays, and check the event’s rules for attendee-to-attendee trading.

Getting there and moving around

Your listed destination is Johnson County Fairgrounds in Iowa City, IA. Confirm the correct building, entrance, parking, public transport and accessibility arrangements with the venue and organizer. Large venues may host several unrelated events on the same day. Allow time for check-in and walking from the entrance to your first stop.

Open directions ↗ · Explore the venue →

Your show-day checklist

Keep your admission confirmation and any required identification available.
Check the organizer’s current opening hours and pass-specific entry.
Review bag, personal-item, photography and re-entry rules.
Save the program or floor plan and choose your first three priorities.
Plan transport home and keep notes for useful follow-up.

Official sources and updates

Event facts come from the magazine’s reviewed directory record, checked 2026-10-10. Planning suggestions are editorial guidance; this guide is not a firsthand review or the organizer’s official program.

Dates, guests, policies and schedules can change. Use the organizer’s current information when making your final plans.

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