CoolTrains and Hobbies — Local services in West Hempfield Township

I wanted to get my 10-year-old son into modeling. The last model that I put together was 30+ years ago. After some web research, I came to find that a lot has changed, at least with regard to paints. Acrylics are apparently now the big thing, for a number of reasons. Based on my web search, I found what I thought I needed and then began the hunt for a local store that sold the individual paints that I wanted... vs. going online and buying pre-fab kits that have 15 paints that I don't need, and 2 that I do. Also, I needed some guidance, as I'd never worked with acrylics before (having grown up in the age of Testor's enamels). I passed by CoolTrains Toys & Hobbies for well over at least a decade on my way home from work. I was always curious about what was in the store, but never had an opportunity to go in, as they keep very limited hours. I'm glad I went in, and I now understand why they keep such limited hours. After striking up a conversation with the owner (Ted) about how I need to consider re-approaching modeling, I discovered that the one, very knowledgeable, shopkeeper (i.e., Ted) runs the entire store... pretty much solely because he has a passion, mainly for trains, but really for models of all sorts. He took the time (a solid 15 minutes) to walk my son and I through acrylics and cross referenced the colors that we'd need for a Shelby Mustang model, which we purchased at a big box store, unaware that CoolTrains Toys & Hobbies carried such a massive supply of model trains, cars (including the Shelby we bought at another store for more), trucks, ships, tanks, jeeps, planes, big rigs... etc. (from all major manufacturers). Ted recommended all kinds of accessories (no pressure to buy at all) and gave us some free magazines that he said would help get me in touch with the current modeling goings on. The store has everything that you could possibly need for build, fitment, and finish... and, if they don't, Ted is willing to order it for you. Other reviewers posted photos, and, while helpful, they barely did the store justice. Even those I posted are limited. This store has so much packed into a relatively small space (there's even a clearance section in the back of the store) that you wouldn't believe it until you saw it. My son was awestruck. What was supposed to be a 15-minute visit turned into a solid hour and a half.. with my son not wanting to leave, as he couldn't believe all the models in the store. While the majority of the store is geared toward model trains of all shapes, sizes, quality, and cost (I wish I could tell you what they are, but I know nothing about model trains)... there is a great deal for all types of modelers. CoolTrains Toys & Hobbies truly seems to have it all... and what they don't have Ted will get for you. When you go in, expect a no-hassle small-town experience from a knowledgeable shopkeeper who's willing to spend what little time he has with folks, passing on his passion for models. Also, please be patient with the owner if he's busy. I saw another reviewer noting that they didn't get the customer service they expected. We're conditioned to big-box store experiences where you might have a ton of employees but truly only one or two of them (who are usually slammed, because they are the few who have the answers), can help you. It might make you feel warm and fuzzy (i.e., acknowledged), but what help are you really getting? There's literally one gentleman running CoolTrains Toys & Hobbies. He does the very best that he can and provides a truly customized customer service experience... listening to your needs and addressing them to the best of his ability. If he's busy, take a breath, peruse the store's wares. You just might be pleasantly surprised at the wonders that CoolTrains Toys & Hobbies offers. I know that my son and I both were... and, we'll definitely be back. Give CoolTrains Toys & Hobbies a chance. While the store has limited hours, it's well worth the experience... just make sure to call ahead to see if the store owner is in....

I love this store and never walk out empty handed. The employees are really friendly, helpful, and cool to talk hobby stuff with. I believe everyone should try a hobby and have one .... unfortunately we're in a day and age where having a hobby seem like a lost leisure activity. I've personally witnessed the loss of countless Hobby stores of various types over time but thankfully we have Cool Trains here to serve our needs. If you want to get into model railroading, model vehicle building, scenery or diorama building, model rocketry, etc then this is the store to go to in the region. Bonus points for the random used train stuff they often buy and resell. You never know what used train goodies you'll find. I also enjoy building model WW2 planes and they literally have everything you would ever need to put the perfect finishing touches for an authentic look on your models. check the store out and...

After spending a couple of hours sightseeing and visiting a number of Train Stores.

Kit Dwight decided to remain in the car reading and let me go in to peruse the shop shy of an hour.

With help from one of the employees who also happens to be model train repairman and font of knowledge we carried my purchases.

Purchase consisted of 0 Gauge FasTrack pieces, numerous 027 Metal Track pieces and the big score.

Two Electric Train Sets.

1950's Louis Marx's Electric Steam Train Set for $79.

Lionel Sante Fe FasTrack Electric Train Set for $159. "A $140 savings as a previous used set."

All together, only...