All Aboard at Taylors Mill

For Bob Rayle, model trains have been part of life since he was eight years old. What started as a hobby became something much more in 2010, when he and a group of fellow enthusiasts formed a nonprofit called Mini World of Trains. After a few location changes, they landed in Taylors Mill and opened the doors to Model Trains Station in December 2017 with just two displays. Today, they have 14.

And these aren’t your average train sets. The displays feature a range of scales—from tiny T and Z scale trains up to wide gauge layouts—meticulously detailed and carefully maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers. Model Trains Station operates as a nonprofit and that philosophy has kept the experience welcoming, creative, and full of heart.

Teaching, Giving, and Growing

The Model Trains Station is more than just fun—it’s educational and community-focused, too. Each year, they welcome between 10,000 and 12,000 visitors and offer lessons in train safety, design, and construction. They give back to other nonprofits, train others in building model displays, and create an accessible, hands-on environment for all ages.

Want to learn? Just stop by. Volunteers are always welcome to join the crew. Whether you're five or 75, there's something magical about watching a miniature locomotive chug past tiny trees, buildings, and towns.

Keep the Wonder Going

With every volunteer hour and donation, this team is keeping the love of model railroading alive in the Upstate—and making sure the next generation can experience the wonder, too.

So next time you find yourself at Taylors Mill, stop by and see what you’ve been missing. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Find them at: 250 Mill St, BL1250, Taylors, SC 29687 and see watch this video from Taylors Mill’s Instagram on where to find it.

These stories shine a light on what makes Taylors special. Help us keep telling them—and supporting the people and places behind them.