Where Community, Craftsmanship, and Model Railroading Come Together
Tucked inside the rolling landscape of Fairview Park in Costa Mesa, the Orange County Model Engineers (OCME) is home to one of Southern California’s most unique and engaging attractions—miniature trains of all types and kinds that you can ride.
But we’re more than just a train ride.
We’re a community of builders, operators, historians, and enthusiasts dedicated to preserving the rich legacy of railroading while sharing it with the public in a fun, hands-on way.
FOR THE PUBLIC: COME RIDE THE TRAINS
Looking for something memorable, affordable, and family-friendly?
We offer free train rides to the public on the third full weekend of every month, from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
No tickets. No reservations. Just show up and enjoy the ride.
Climb aboard our miniature trains and take a journey through scenic Fairview Park on nearly a mile of track, complete with bridges, curves, and the charm of real railroad operation—just in a smaller scale.
What to Expect:
- 🚆 Free rides for all ages (please see height requirements)
- 🌳 A beautiful park setting with plenty of space to explore
- 👨🔧 Friendly members happy to answer questions
- 📸 A unique, photo-worthy experience you won’t find anywhere else
Whether it’s your first visit or a returning tradition, every ride is powered by members who love sharing the magic of trains and the railroad.
FOR ENTHUSIASTS: JOIN THE HOBBY
Ever thought about running your own train?
OCME is a club built by people who love railroading—not just watching it, but building, maintaining, and operating it. Our members come from all backgrounds, united by a shared passion for craftsmanship, engineering, and community.
As a Member, You Can:
- 🔧 Build and operate your own live steam, gasolines, or electric trains
- 🏗️ Help construct and maintain our railroad
- 📚 Learn about railroad history and model engineering
- 🤝 Connect with a passionate, welcoming community
- 🎉 Participate in events, meets, fun runs and operating days
Whether you’re an experienced machinist or just getting started, there’s a place for you here. Visit our MEMBERSHIP PAGE for more information
OUR MISSION
We exist to preserve and share the history of railroading and model engineering, while providing meaningful, hands-on experiences for both our members and the public. And through our amazing partnership with the City of Costa Mesa, we want to teach, engage and educate about Fairview Park, its history, and its amazing flora and fauna.
Through our monthly public runs, we open our doors to the community—offering free access to something educational, interactive, and unforgettable. While also providing tours to hobby groups, school groups, scouts and more! Ask about our behind-the-scenes tours! and find out about the natural and engineering wonders available in Costa Mesa!
At OCME we believe railroading isn’t just history. It’s something you should be able to experience.
BUILT BY MEMBERS
Every foot of track, every train you ride, and every smiling face you see is powered by our amazing members. With more than 40 years as a 501c3 organization, our club is dedicated to the long-term education and enjoyment of the nearly five miles of track we maintain in a truly unique Southern California environment.
Our members donate their time, skills, and passion to keep the railroad running—not just for themselves, but for the thousands of visitors who join us each year.
📍 PLAN YOUR VISIT
- Location: 2480 Placentia Ave, Costa Mesa, CA (Directions)
- Public Run Days: Third full weekend of every month
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Cost: Free (donations are always appreciated and help to keep the trains running)
COME FOR THE RIDE. STAY FOR THE COMMUNITY.
Whether you’re here for a fun day in the park or looking to dive into the world of live steam railroading, Orange County Model Engineers welcomes you.
All aboard.
The Mackerel Flats Gift Shop provides an opportunity to donate to the organization as well as to purchase train sets, plush toys, T-shirts, and other fun keepsakes. Like all other operations at Goathill Junction, the gift shop is maintained and operated by OCME members.