In this episode of Greeley Business Beat, Michelle Kempema, Executive Director of the Colorado Model Railroad Museum, shares the joyful origin story and remarkable growth of one of the largest model train layouts in the country. Michelle talks about discovering the museum as a single mom, turning a volunteer gig into a thriving nonprofit attraction, and why “educate, inspire, and bring joy” anchors their mission. We explore the museum’s living miniature world (complete with dispatcher chatter and an iSpy game), legendary “blooper” moments (hello, haunted caboose), the power of volunteers, partnerships that keep the museum accessible to locals, and plans to expand with classrooms that teach STEAM skills through hands-on creativity. 

Key Highlights: 

  • [00:02:00] From “Greeley Freight Station” to a Destination
    Michelle explains the name change to Colorado Model Railroad Museum and its status as one of the largest model train layouts in the U.S.—built for a full family visitor experience.

  • [00:03:00] A Joyful Beginning 
    Michelle shares how her family first came to Greeley, the moment she and her daughter discovered the museum, and how volunteering there eventually led her to step into the role of Executive Director and grow the organization into a thriving attraction.

  • [00:06:00] A Miniature World of Wonder
    Michelle describes the immersive visitor experience, from sound-equipped trains and live dispatcher chatter to mountain vistas, tiny scenes filled with stories, and the popular iSpy game that keeps guests engaged for hours.

  • [00:08:23] Powered by Volunteers 
    Around 100 volunteers from across the country keep the museum running, lending their skills to operate trains, maintain the layout, and add whimsical Easter eggs that delight guests of all ages.

  • [00:11:38] Looking Ahead
    Future plans include expanding with classrooms and hands-on programs designed to inspire creativity and teach STEAM skills through the hobby of model railroading. 

Rapid Fire Questions: 

  • Winter or summer? Fall person (but if choosing, “fall-winter”). 

    Coffee or tea? Coffee with lots of creamer.  

    Morning or night? Morning—up at 5 a.m. 

    Favorite place in Greeley (besides the museum)? Downtown dining. Too many favorites to pick one! 

    Favorite thing about Greeley? The people are connected, welcoming, and supportive. 

About the Colorado Model Railroad Museum:
Located in downtown Greeley, the Colorado Model Railroad Museum features a nationally recognized model train layout with live train sounds, dispatcher operations, detailed mountain and town scenes, and interactive touches like an iSpy scavenger hunt. Supported by a dedicated volunteer community and local partnerships, the museum is committed to accessibility, education, and pure wonder for visitors of all ages. 

Learn more: Explore hours, tickets, and programs on the Colorado Model Railroad Museum’s website or at the museum in downtown Greeley.

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The Greeley Business Beat is brought to you by the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative. Learn more about what makes Greeley a vibrant and welcoming community at VisitGreeley.com. 

Thank you for tuning in and stay connected to the heart of Greeley!