For years, the same question has followed us everywhere we go. At every train show we attend, with every customer we meet, and in countless emails and messages, it always comes up. Each time it's asked with a little more hope in the voice: "When will you open a physical store?"
Today, we're thrilled to finally give you the answer you've been waiting for.
A Dream Years in the Making
Since we launched Squeaky's Trains & Things in January 2020, we've built an incredible community of model train enthusiasts who've supported us through online orders, train shows, and live chat conversations. Every purchase, every question about decoders, locomotives, getting started in the hobby, troubleshooting layouts, and building your first railroad has helped shape who we are today.
What started as a small family business with big dreams has grown into something we never imagined possible. Through late nights answering customer questions, carefully packing each order with personal touches, and building genuine relationships one conversation at a time, we've created more than just a business - we've built a family of train enthusiasts who share our passion.
Opening a physical store was always part of our vision from the very beginning. But as many of you remember, 2020 had other plans for all of us. What started as a temporary shift to online-only operations became an incredible journey of growth and connection that we never could have imagined. Every challenge taught us something new, every obstacle made us stronger, and every milestone brought us closer to this moment.
Through it all, you've been there with us - celebrating our successes, supporting us through difficulties, and constantly asking that one question that kept our dream alive. Your unwavering faith in our vision has been the driving force behind everything we do.
The Big Announcement
Squeaky's Trains & Things is opening our first physical retail location at 1885 Braselton Hwy in Lawrenceville, Georgia!
After years of dreaming, months of planning, and countless conversations with customers who've become friends, we're finally taking this monumental step. This isn't just about having a physical presence - it's about creating a space where you can experience the magic of model railroading in a whole new way.
We're also excited to share that Squeaky's Aquatics will be located in the same building. We launched our aquatics business online this year at squeakysaquatics.com, and now we're bringing both passions under one roof.
Imagine walking through our doors and seeing the trains you've only viewed online displayed right in front of you. Picture getting hands-on help with that tricky decoder installation or having a real conversation about your layout plans with someone who truly understands your passion. Maybe you're showing your grandkids their very first locomotive, watching their eyes light up as they discover the magic you've loved for years. Or perhaps you're testing out that new Digitrax system on our display layout, getting a real feel for how it works before making your decision.
But it's so much more than that. We want you to feel truly welcome the moment you step inside - not as just another customer, but as a valued member of our family. Whether you're browsing for hours, asking detailed questions about a specific product, or simply stopping by to share stories about your latest project, you'll always be treated with genuine care and respect.
Our vision is to create an environment where you feel completely at home. Maybe you'll find yourself sipping a coffee while contemplating your next purchase, or your partner might discover the peaceful aquatics section, watching the gentle movement of fish and browsing hobby magazines while you explore the latest locomotive arrivals. Perhaps you're taking your time examining every detail of a structure kit, knowing there's no pressure and no rush.
We believe that exceptional experiences come from genuine care, attention to detail, and treating every person who walks through our doors like they matter - because you do. Even if you're just browsing, seeking advice, or simply want to talk trains with someone who shares your enthusiasm, we're here for you. Your passion is our passion, and that connection is worth more than any sale.
We can't wait to meet each and every one of you in person, to share stories about your layouts, and to help you discover new aspects of this incredible hobby we all love.
What You Can Expect
We believe in creating magical experiences through exceptional service and genuine connections. Our store is designed to be a welcoming destination where service, stories, and your comfort take center stage - where every interaction feels special and memorable.
Our new location will feature:
- Full Model Train Showcase: Browse our complete selection of HO and N scale trains, plus all the scenery, decoders, and hobby supplies you love
- In-Person Expert Help: Get face-to-face assistance with decoder installations, troubleshooting, and project planning from team members who go above and beyond
- Hands-On Experience: Touch and examine products before you buy, especially helpful for those detailed structure kits and rolling stock
- Personal Service: The same attention and train expertise you've come to expect from Squeaky's, now available in person with that extra touch of care
- Competitive Pricing: Our commitment to low prices continues both online and in-person, ensuring you get the best value for your hobby budget
- Welcoming Environment: A comfortable space designed for everyone, including "quiet days" for those with sensory sensitivities
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Take your time, ask questions, and never feel rushed or pressured - we're here to make your visit enjoyable
- Thoughtful Details: From the moment you walk in, you'll notice the little touches that show we care about your experience
- Occasional Events: Special activities and workshops designed to bring our hobby and community together
- Aquatics Section: Quality aquarium supplies and a peaceful space to complement your visit
Important Details
Address: 1885 Braselton Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA
Estimated Opening: October 2025
Current Status: Under construction, not yet open to the public
We're currently in the exciting construction and setup phase, working hard to create a space that truly serves our customers and makes everyone feel at home. While we're not ready to welcome visitors just yet, we'll be sharing updates on our progress and announcing our official grand opening date very soon.
A Personal Thank You & Our Mission
When we first started this journey, opening a physical store felt like an impossible dream. There were moments of doubt, challenges that seemed insurmountable, and voices that questioned whether we could really make it work. But dreams have a funny way of becoming reality when you refuse to give up on them.
As many of you know, I (Squeaky, aka Clayton) am autistic, and this business has always been about more than just selling trains. It's been about proving that when you believe in something deeply enough, when you have a community that supports you, and when your family stands behind your vision even when the path seems uncertain, incredible things can happen.
To my family, who believed in me when this was just a crazy idea, who supported me through every challenge, and who allowed me to chase this dream even when it meant taking risks - thank you. You've been my foundation through it all.
We're committed to making our location welcoming for everyone, including special accommodations for those with sensory sensitivities. This store represents everything this hobby is about: imagination, determination, and like trains themselves, always moving forward no matter what obstacles lie ahead.
Our goal is simple: to create moments of joy and wonder for every person who visits us, just like the best experiences you've ever had. We want you to leave our store not just with great products, but with a smile and a story to share.
Special Recognition
We must extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible partners who believed in us from day one. To George at SoundTraxx, Trevor at Heartland Hobbies, and Eric at Walthers, your extreme support and faith in our vision has been absolutely instrumental in making this dream a reality. And to the many other manufacturers, suppliers, and industry partners who have stood by us through this journey, we are forever grateful.
What's Next?
Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing construction progress photos, store layout details, grand opening celebration plans, special promotions, and store hours!
Don't miss out! Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know about our grand opening details. Newsletter subscribers will receive a special RSVP invitation to our grand opening celebration with exclusive gifts, plus enjoy a 5% discount on your first in-store purchase!
All Aboard for the Next Chapter
This October marks the beginning of an exciting new adventure for Squeaky's Trains & Things. After years of dreaming, planning, and building relationships with amazing customers like you, we're finally ready to open our doors at 1885 Braselton Hwy in Lawrenceville.
We can't wait to welcome you into our store, help you find exactly what you're looking for, and continue building the friendships that make this hobby so special. The question "When will you open a physical store?" will finally have its answer.
Thank you for riding this journey with us. The best is yet to come!
🚂 All aboard!
The Squeaky's Trains & Things Team
