Adventure brief
Homeschool STEM Day
Homeschool students can engage in monthly STEM-packed adventures at TrainTastic! Railroad Museum in Gulfport. Discover hands-on projects, interactive exhibits, and outdoor train rides that bring science and engineering to life.
Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, TrainTastic! Railroad Museum offers a hands-on gateway to STEM learning designed for homeschool students and families looking for a dynamic blend of education and outdoor fun. This unique specialty museum provides an interactive experience centered around trains and engineering, merging science, technology, engineering, art, and math into an engaging S.T.E.A.M. curriculum. Every first Wednesday of the month, homeschoolers are invited to dive into the TrainTastic! Homeschool STEM Day.
The adventure begins in the S.T.E.A.M. lab, where students tackle creative, hands-on projects that link theory to real-world applications in locomotive mechanics and design principles. From there, visitors take a guided tour of the museum’s extensive model railroad exhibits, showcasing intricate miniature landscapes and historical railway artifacts that chronicle the evolution of rail transport in the Gulf Coast region. Beyond the indoors, the outdoor train ride delivers a scenic loop around the property, giving a tangible sense of movement and operation in a fun, accessible way that appeals to all ages.
Adjacent to this, PlayVille Station offers an indoor climber and slides providing a safe and energetic space for kids to burn off steam. TrainTastic! stands out in Gulfport as a family-oriented destination geared toward enriching education through physical, tactile learning and play. Its combination of carefully curated exhibits, STEM-focused programming, and active play areas creates a well-rounded experience uncommon in local museums.
Perfect for homeschool groups or families wanting to spark curiosity about technology and engineering outdoors, this museum blends learning with recreation in a way that’s firmly grounded in the local community and its heritage. Whether you're a local or visiting the area, TrainTastic! Railroad Museum's Homeschool STEM Day is a standout choice for engaging young minds with practical science fundamentals amid the subtle charm of Mississippi's coastal environment.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for the S.T.E.A.M. Labessential
Plan to get to TrainTastic! before the scheduled activities begin at 10:30 AM to enjoy hands-on projects fully.
- 02Dress for Active Playinfo
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for climbing and sliding at PlayVille Station after indoor activities.
- 03Bring a Water Bottleinfo
Stay hydrated during your visit, especially if you plan to spend time outside on the train ride and playground.
- 04Check Monthly Event Datesessential
These homeschool days occur on the first Wednesday of each month—verify dates ahead of time to secure a spot.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable shoes
Supportive footwear helps with walking through the museum and climbing at PlayVille Station.
EssentialWater bottle
Keeping hydrated during indoor and outdoor activities is important, especially in warmer months.
summer|spring|fallEssentialLight jacket
A layer for cooler days or rainy weather keeps kids comfortable throughout the visit.
fall|winter|springNotebook and pencil
Useful for taking notes during STEM lab lessons and sketching ideas from the exhibits.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Miniature Gulfport landmarks within the model railroad displays, Quiet picnic spots under large shade trees on museum grounds
Local fauna
Local songbirds frequenting the outdoor areas, Squirrels often spotted near the playground
Historic heritage
Railroads played a critical role in Gulfport’s development as a coastal city, with TrainTastic! preserving this legacy through detailed exhibits.
Mindful exploration
TrainTastic! promotes environmental stewardship by incorporating sustainable practices in their operations and encouraging responsible outdoor play.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the outdoor train for moving shots, Inside the museum capturing intricate model details, PlayVille Station showing active play scenes
- Subjects
- Miniature model trains, Children engaged in S.T.E.A.M activities, Colorful playground equipment
- Best times
- Late morning, Golden hour, Cloudy afternoons for soft light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Who can attend Homeschool STEM Day?
This event is designed specifically for homeschool students and their families, welcoming all ages interested in S.T.E.A.M.
Is pre-registration required for the Homeschool STEM Day?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve spots ahead, as space can be limited on the first Wednesday of each month.
What is included in the admission price?
Admission includes access to the S.T.E.A.M lab, museum tours, outdoor train rides, and PlayVille Station activities.
Are adults required to pay for admission?
Chaperones are charged $14.00, while students pay $10.00 each.
Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
Parts of the museum are accessible, but please contact TrainTastic! directly regarding specific accommodations.
What time do the scheduled lessons begin?
Lessons in the S.T.E.A.M lab start promptly at 10:30 AM on the designated day.