Join an exclusive guided tour at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum’s Engine House in North Freedom, Wisconsin. Get up close with the Domtar 1001 steam engine and uncover the intricate history of railway restoration.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves standing and walking on flat surfaces without strenuous activity.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves the Wisconsin Valley Railroad heritage, showcasing vital railway technology from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Conservation
The museum actively maintains and restores locomotives using environmentally conscious practices to reduce impact and preserve historic rail equipment for future generations.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Join an exclusive guided tour at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum’s Engine House in North Freedom, Wisconsin. Get up close with the Domtar 1001 steam engine and uncover the intricate history of railway restoration.
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.
Reserve Early for the Stars & Stripes Event
This tour is only available during the special Stars & Stripes event and spots fill quickly, so book your tour well in advance.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
You’ll be on your feet for about 2 hours exploring the engine house, so sturdy, comfortable shoes will enhance your experience.
Bring a Light Jacket
Engine houses can be cool and drafty inside, even in summer, so a light jacket or sweater is a good idea.
Follow Safety Instructions Carefully
For your safety and preservation of the locomotives, always follow your guide’s instructions and avoid touching restricted areas.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support and comfort during the guided walking tour inside the engine house.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Helpful for cooler temperatures inside the engine house during spring and other cooler seasons.
spring
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during warmer weather and outdoor portions of the visit.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture unique details of historic locomotives and scenic museum grounds.