Posted in Wisconsin
August 16, 2019
7 Wisconsin Train Rides That Belong On Your Bucket List
There are tons of places in Wisconsin to soak up some railroad history. But one of the best has got to be the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. In addition to several static displays, the museum offers a variety of train rides. And with rides focusing on everything from fall foliage to beer and wine, there really is something for everyone. Take a look:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The perfect way to do some leaf-peeping, this train meanders through the rural Sauk County countryside. During the 55-minute ride, you’ll enjoy great views of the surrounding foliage from the comfort of restored vintage passenger cars. Autumn Color Weekend is scheduled for October 11, 12, and 13, 2019. For more information, click here.
Hop aboard this train and enjoy some hops, along with beautiful vistas. The fun begins at 1:00 p.m. on October 5th, 2019. After leaving the station, the train travels through the valley below Baraboo Bluffs – all while passengers sample crisp cool microbrews. The $45 fare includes beer and snacks. Also, non-alcoholic beverages can be substituted for non-beer drinkers or individuals under age 21. For more information, click here.
Make this year’s visit to the pumpkin patch extra special with a ride on the Pumpkin Special. The seasonal ride takes passengers straight to Quartzite Lake, where pumpkins are ready for picking. The 7-mile round trip should take about 55 minutes; however, could take longer depending on the crowd size. This year’s Pumpkin Special will be held on October 19 and 20, 2019. The train departs at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. each day. For more information, click here.
Get into the spirit of the season with a ride aboard Santa Express. Every minute of the 55-minute train ride is full of festive fun, which includes a visit from Santa and his elves and lots of Christmas carols. Santa Express trains operate as scheduled regardless of weather conditions. But don’t worry; you’ll be nice and cozy since all cars are kept warm using the centuries-old tradition of steam heating or coal-fired stoves, just like at the North Pole. Santa Express is scheduled for November 30 - December 1, 2019 and December 7 - 8, 2019. The train departs at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. each day. For more information, click here.
Held on select nights throughout the year, this train offers passengers the chance to enjoy a gourmet meal in an unforgettable setting. Watch beautiful scenery whiz by as you nosh on a 5-course meal prepared by Bauman’s Meats and Catering of Markesan. Departing from the North Freedom Depot, the ride lasts about 2.5 hours. For more information, click here.
Pair your love of wines with a ride aboard Mid-Continent’s First Class car fleet for an unforgettable adventure. The ride through rural Sauk County lasts about 1 – 1.5 hours. Along the way, passengers will be treated to wine samples from local wineries along with pairings. The train departs from North Freedom on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 5:30 p.m. For more information, click here.
A tasty adventure for the entire family, the Pizza Train uses the same cars as the Elegant Dinner Train but features a menu that younger passengers will enjoy. And just to be clear, we’re talking about pizza. The Pizza Train is held three times a year. For 2019, the remaining dates are August 24th and September 14th. For more information, click here.
To learn more, call (608) 522-4261. You can also visit the Mid-Continent Railway Museum website or Facebook page.
Address: E8948 Museum Road, North Freedom, WI, 53951
This isn’t the only place for train-related fun. Read about another here.
