Hop aboard a vintage 1924 wooden caboose and enjoy a scenic 55-minute ride through Wisconsin’s countryside. Discover railroading history and explore fascinating restored trains at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
55 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves climbing a few steps to enter the caboose.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves one of the most extensive collections of historic railcars and locomotives in the Midwest, offering a window into early 20th-century railroading.
Conservation
The museum actively engages in sustainable preservation by maintaining historic equipment and promoting environmentally responsible tourism practices.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Hop aboard a vintage 1924 wooden caboose and enjoy a scenic 55-minute ride through Wisconsin’s countryside. Discover railroading history and explore fascinating restored trains at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom, Wisconsin, preserves and presents historic railroad equipment and operates authentic train experiences for visitors. The museum offers a range of guided and self-guided activities including Engine House & Domtar 1001 Interactive Tour, Vintage Rail Car Tours, and rides aboard an ALCO S-1 locomotive (MCRY #7).
Seasonal and themed trips include Harvest Flyer, Harvest Happy Hour, Root Beer Float Flyer, Pizza Limited, Autumn Color - Coach Train, Holiday Night Cap, and Group Trains that require reservations. Visitors can tour the Engine House and Car Shop, see award-winning restorations, and take walking tours of historic railcars not normally open to the public.
Several experiences include onboard refreshments such as hot apple cider, donuts, root beer floats, or pizza served during the 55-minute scenic rides through rural Sauk County. The MCRY #7 cab rides provide an up-close locomotive experience accompanied by an engineer on the run between North Freedom and Quartzite Lake.
The museum displays restored early-1900s coach cars, steel coaches, and other rolling stock alongside interpretive exhibits that document regional rail history. Programming combines hands-on tours, guided narration, and curated restorations to create educational outings for families, rail enthusiasts, and groups. Ticketed events and train schedules are published on-site seasonally.
Location
North Freedom, WI
Located in Sauk County
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Guided tours and themed rides
Typical Ride
55 minutes
Scenic short excursions
Group Bookings
Reservations required
Private group train reservations available
Reserve seats for seasonal rides, vintage car tours, or group trains and experience historic railroading in Sauk County.
Arrive Early for the Museum Tour
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your ride to explore the museum exhibits and catch extra insights from museum staff.
Dress for the Weather
The caboose is wooden and offers open windows; bring layers to stay comfortable during cooler or variable weather.
Bring a Camera
The cupola provides fantastic vantage points for photos, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the views.
Limited Accessibility
The climb into the caboose involves steps and narrow passageways, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Layered Clothing
Adjust to changing temperatures inside and outside the caboose by dressing in layers.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture scenic views and historic railcars during your ride and museum visit.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat help protect you on sunny summer days.
summer
Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for walking around the museum grounds and climbing into the caboose.