Every community is built on the dedication and bravery of first responders. Firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and healthcare workers are the people who show up first when emergencies happen, often putting themselves at risk to keep others safe.
On Saturday, September 6, TrainTastic Model Railroad Museum in Gulfport is honoring these everyday heroes with First Responders Appreciation Day & Touch-a-Truck – a family-friendly event filled with gratitude, hands-on fun, and plenty of trains.
Touch-a-Truck: Get Up Close with Emergency Vehicles
From 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, TrainTastic’s parking lot will transform into an open-air showcase of the vehicles first responders use every day. Families can climb aboard fire trucks, explore police cars, and peek inside ambulances. Kids will love the chance to see sirens, lights, and equipment up close while parents can connect with local first responders in a relaxed, friendly setting.
This portion of the event is completely free and open to the public, making it an easy choice for anyone looking for fun things to do in Gulfport on a Saturday morning.
Free Admission for First Responders
As a way of saying thank you, TrainTastic is offering free admission all day to first responders with valid ID. From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, first responders can explore the museum’s 50,000 square feet of interactive train exhibits, ride-on trains, LEGO displays, and STEAM-focused learning spaces at no cost.
Families of first responders will also receive a special discounted group rate:
- Adults: $14
- Kids: $10
It’s a chance to enjoy an affordable day together while celebrating the people who serve our community.
A Full Day of Family Fun
Beyond the morning Touch-a-Truck event, families can spend the entire day inside the museum. TrainTastic’s admission is good for the full day, so you can explore the model train layouts in the morning, step out for lunch, and return in the afternoon for more hands-on fun.
Exhibits include:
- Interactive model train displays in 14 different gauges
- Buttons that make horns sound and boats move across miniature harbors
- A STEAM lab with creative, science-based activities
- A play zone designed for kids 12 and under
- LEGO builds and seasonal exhibits
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to make a full day out of your visit.
Why This Event Matters
First Responders Appreciation Day isn’t just about free admission. It’s about reminding families and kids of the people who protect our community every day. By combining education, play, and gratitude, TrainTastic is creating a space where families can connect with local heroes while making lasting memories.
Plan Your Visit
- Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
- Touch-a-Truck: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Free and open to the public)
- Museum Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Regular admission; free for first responders with ID; discounted rates for families)
- Location: TrainTastic, Gulfport, MS
Bring the family to TrainTastic on September 6 for a day filled with trains, trucks, and community pride. Celebrate the brave men and women who keep us safe while enjoying one of the top attractions in Gulfport.
🎟️ Contact us for more info!
