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Celebrate the holidays on a festive train ride through Duluth, Minnesota. Choose a fresh Christmas tree and enjoy live music in a vintage dome car for a memorable seasonal experience.
Celebrate the holidays on a festive train ride through Duluth, Minnesota. Choose a fresh Christmas tree and enjoy live music in a vintage dome car for a memorable seasonal experience.
Book with North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum · Duluth, Minnesota
Experience the magic of the holiday season aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad's Christmas Tree Train in Duluth, Minnesota. This exclusive First Class Dome Car ride combines nostalgic train travel with festive cheer, making it a perfect family outing. As you journey through scenic landscapes toward Knife River, enjoy live holiday music while soaking in the cozy ambiance of the beautifully restored dome car. Upon arrival, select your very own fresh-cut Christmas tree from a charming lot beside the historic depot, creating a special keepsake to remember the day. The event offers a unique combination of holiday tradition, beautiful winter scenery, and the comfort of a warm, vintage train car. Whether you're a local or visiting Duluth for the season, this train ride promises joyful moments and lasting memories wrapped in the glow of holiday lights and the crisp Minnesota air. It’s a delightful way to celebrate with loved ones and embrace the season’s spirit in a one-of-a-kind setting.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking involved when selecting a tree.
Yes, the experience is family-friendly and perfect for children of all ages.
Reservations can be made online through the North Shore Scenic Railroad website or via FareHarbor booking links.
The ticket includes the train ride; Christmas trees are purchased separately at Knife River.
The train runs in most weather conditions; check the railroad’s cancellation policy for severe weather updates.
Light refreshments may be available, but it’s recommended to check ahead and bring snacks if needed.
The railroad offers some accessibility accommodations; contact them directly to discuss specific needs.
The North Shore Scenic Railroad operates vintage trains on historic routes dating back to the early 20th century connecting Duluth and nearby communities.
The railroad emphasizes sustainable tourism by maintaining historic equipment and partnering with local organizations to protect the Lake Superior shoreline.
North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum operates heritage train excursions and a railroad museum in Duluth, Minnesota. The railroad runs narrated and scenic trips along the Lake Superior North Shore aboard vintage passenger equipment, including coach seating and an exclusive First Class Dome Car on the Duluth Zephyr. Signature rides include day outings to Two Harbors, steam-powered trips with historic locomotive #332, seasonal fall color tours, and short family-friendly holiday trains such as the Christmas City Express and the Christmas Tree Train. Special-event trains include adults-only offerings like the Terror Train costume party and the October Beer Tasting Train, plus a farmhouse-style Grandmas Marathon Viewing Train that follows the race route. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum on site preserves local rail history with exhibits, historic cars, and interpretive displays. Museum admission can be added to train tickets at a combo rate discount, offering a half-price museum pass when purchased during ticket checkout or pickup. The railroad's public schedule includes both coach-class and First Class Dome Car experiences, and many trips feature lakeshore views, narrated routes, and visits to restored depots like Knife River. As a featured Duluth attraction, the North Shore Scenic Railroad provides documented train operations, scheduled seasonal events, and museum access that appeal to families, railfans, and visitors seeking North Shore scenery. Trip options, clear ticket policies, and partnerships with the Lake Superior Railroad Museum support reliable visitor experiences and educational value. Seasonal departures and special-event trains run with advance online ticketing for select trips.
Book with North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum