Ride a Christmas Train, Then Enjoy a Christmas-Themed View for a Holly Jolly Minnesota Adventure

What's your favorite part about spending the holidays in Minnesota? Do you enjoy embracing all that the season has to offer in the way of festive activities, holiday lights, and family-friendly outings? Well, you're in luck, because we've got the perfect holiday itinerary lined up. Head to Duluth this holiday season, and there you'll find all the ingredients for the perfect Minnesota holiday adventure, including a holiday-themed train courtesy of the North Star Scenic Railroad, a waterfront hotel, and the North Star State's premier holiday lights attraction.

The North Shore Scenic Railroad is one of the—if not the—most popular tourist train operators in Minnesota. Every year, the railroad hosts a holiday celebration called Christmas City Express. Your excursion begins at the historic Duluth Depot. The celebration includes an unforgettable reading of a Christmas City Express story and live music by carolers. After the performance, take some time to explore the train museum, which the railroad decks out for the holidays.

Of course, the real excitement starts when the conductor calls, "All aboard!" You'll ride behind the light-bedazzled locomotive, enjoying cookies, cocoa, and Christmas carols, as it takes you on a short trip along Lake Superior. It's a 30-minute ride, which is perfect for little ones in your crew. Visit the North Shore Scenic Railroad website for more information, including train schedules, and to purchase tickets.

After your winter train ride excursion, we recommend staying at the Pier B Resort Hotel, which is located right on the harbor. Not only is it waterfront, but Pier B also happens to be right next door to Bentleyville and its display of 5 million holiday lights.

Book in advance to ensure a Bentleyville view, and be sure to ask about available packages. You’ll even have a festive view of the holiday splendor when dining at Silos, Pier B’s in-house restaurant. Pier B embraces its location and treats its guests to a variety of holiday festivities, mindful of the backdrop that Bentleyville USA provides. Bonfires and s’mores are always a popular way to enjoy the view, along with a crackling fire and a delicious sweet treat.

Bentleyville USA is literally located just across the dock from the resort. It's within easy walking distance, or, if you prefer, Pier B offers wagon rides that will take you right up to the entrance. In fact, you could even take a North Shore Scenic Railroad train to Bentleyville USA.

When you head to Duluth and Bentleyville USA, don't forget that they tend to be busy during the holiday season, so be sure to plan your adventure in advance. There may not be a better way to celebrate Christmas in Minnesota. Do you have a favorite winter destination in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Be sure to share your favorite places to go and things to do for the holidays in Minnesota on our Nomination page.

If you're ready to start planning your own holiday adventures in Minnesota, head over to Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner and see where it takes you.