Reviewed by: Cecilia Wood
Magic of Model Trains is back, November 19 + more holiday events to enjoy
Reading time: 4 minutes
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As the holidays roll in, so does Birmingham’s most exciting and beloved exhibit—the Magic of Model Trains at McWane Science Center. Read on for details on this must-see experience beginning November 19, plus what else is in store this holiday season at Birmingham’s favorite science museum.
Magic of Model Trains—Nov. 1-Jan. 2023
Do you hear that sound? It’s the nostalgic clickety clack of the Magic of Model Trains. Yep, this extraordinary exhibit returns to McWane on November 19 and you’ll want to ensure you’re first to the train stop to check it out.
Back for its 17th consecutive year, the Magic of Model Trains takes viewers of all ages on a thrilling journey of wonder and discover. Here are the top reasons this delightful exhibit will entertain you and the family:
- It’s created by The Wrecking Crew Model Railroad Club—a group of model train enthusiasts who designed and built all elements of the exhibit.
- The exhibit features over a dozen unique displays with model trains in every shape and size.
- Each train track is designed to scale with meticulous detail. Discover a miniature, true-to-life city with everything from covered bridges to downtown storefronts and people waiting for a train. Look closely, maybe you’ll see a tiny version of yourself!
- All trains included in the exhibit really work! You can even slide into the conductor’s seat and operate some of the trains.
Event Details
What: Magic of Model Trains
When: November 19-January 2023
Where: McWane Science Center, 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Cost: Included in general admission to McWane
Tickets
Superhero Science Day—Nov. 12
Super speed. Incredible strength. The ability to fly. If you could have one superpower, what would you choose?
On Saturday, November 12, head to McWane for hands-on superhero science programming in its Adventure Halls, then stick around to watch Marvel’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at the IMAX Dome Theater.
Event Details
What: Superhero Science Day
When: Saturday, November 12 | 10AM-5PM
Where: McWane Science Center, 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Cost: Superhero Science Day – Event cost included in general admission to McWane | IMAX tickets sold separately
Tickets
Bonus viewings of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at the IMAX Dome Theater:
- Pre-release screenings: Thursday, November 10 | 7:30PM
- Daily screenings: Begin November 11 | 1:30PM, 4:30PM + 7:30PM
Turkey Science—Nov 23 + 25
Think turkeys only say “gobble gobble”? Guess again! During this scientific feast, you’ll learn all about Thanksgiving’s prized bird, the turkey.
Event Details
What: Turkey Science
When: Wednesday, November 23 + Friday, November 25 | 9AM-5PM
Where: McWane Science Center, 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Cost: Included in general admission to McWane
Tickets
Wallace & Gromit™ and Shaun the Sheep: Shear Genius!—Now-Jan. 2023
Great news—McWane’s recent exhibit Wallace & Gromit™ and Shaun the Sheep: Sheer Genius! is still open, and ewe won’t want to miss it. This special STEM-based exhibit opened in August and has been a hit among kids and adults alike. Here are some of the fun activities you take take part in when you visit:
- Blast off in Wallace’s rocket.
- Experiment with iconic inventions in Wallace’s workshop.
- Create stop motion animation.
- Learn about the history and people behind the Wallace & Gromit films, plus see miniature film props.
Want a closer look? See our journey through the exhibit here.
Event Details
What: Wallace & Gromit™ and Shaun the Sheep: Shear Genius
When: Now-January 2023
Where: McWane Science Center, 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Cost: Included in general admission to McWane
Tickets
This Giving Tuesday, think “Power of $10”
The holidays are a time for giving and with your support, McWane can help underserved populations with the Power of $10—a special fund set aside to help pay for the cost of serving children typically underrepresented in science centers—especially those from low-income homes and disadvantaged communities. This Giving Tuesday (November 29), remember the Power of $10 and help provide youths access to McWane.
For more fun at McWane, visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
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