Hidden away in an industrial park location east of the Palomar Airport exit, this speciality collection of miniature working engines celebrates the craftsmen (and a few craftswomen) who have produced these unique pieces. In addition to engines, there are remarkable tiny dueling pistols and rifles that really fire, models of iconic structures and doll houses that would rate a high price in anyreal estate market aimed at extremely tiny families. The staff docents are friendly and knowledgeable and the demonstrations, conducted three times a day, rate ohhs and ash as engines the size barely the size of one's hand fire away with working pistons and cams. No entrance fee; donations accepted.
hubby & I spent about 2 hours, he's an engineer and woodworker. Lots of miniature engines that work. Excellent place to take kids to learn about science & physics. Staff were VERY passionate, helpful & interesting. Great way to spend an afternoon in a non-tourist kind of way.
We were totally overwhelmed with the collection, both the quality and the quantity. We arrived late in the day, just before closing, so had to hurray through the displays. In addition to all of the mechanical miniatures, we were especially surprised and delighted to find a model of the Cyclone Racer, the rollercoaster which I rode when I was a child in Long Beach, California. A person could easily spend hours studying each of the items.Of course, the feature attraction, the Duesenberg, is just magical..unbelievable.
My kids and I spent a couple hours checking out all the models in this museum - we even got to go in the back for a tour of some of engines they are working on. Great way to see some amazing models and spend a fun afternoon.
We really enjoyed visiting this museum. My favorite thing was the fully working Duesenberg I think it's 1/26" scale, beautiful. Also the working model guns, some so small I don't know how you could load them. I had never seen a revolver that had a handle which made it into a shot gun (correct?). Anyway, the engineering of all the motors and models they have is worth seeing. They have a fully operational workshop in the back which has tours every couple of hours. Visit their website for more info: www.CraftsmanshipMuseum.com. Admission is free although it's nice to leave a donation
I was so amazed at the perfection of all the plethora of works here. Amazing time and effort people have spent on these works.
I took my 70 year-old uncle there and could not drag him away! A great place for guys, probably not so much for gals.
Miniature mechanical operating mechanisms. Excellent docents -very well informed. Boring if you do not like mechanical things.
Lots of different types of models,planes,trains,boats etc-Even architectural gems made of matchsticks-Dont miss the tour of the back area
I was quite impressed with this museum. Very interesting stuff inside. When you are in the area make sure you take time to go check it out. One of a kind museum.