THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Hop aboard the Pumpkin Express for a scenic train ride and pumpkin picking adventure near Minneapolis. Perfect for families seeking seasonal fun and historical charm.
Hop aboard the Pumpkin Express for a scenic train ride and pumpkin picking adventure near Minneapolis. Perfect for families seeking seasonal fun and historical charm.
Book with Minnesota Transportation Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Minnesota Transportation Museum · Saint Paul, Minnesota
The Pumpkin Express offers a charming family outing that combines vintage train travel with seasonal pumpkin picking near Osceola, Minnesota. Departing from the historic 1884 Dresser Depot, this 25-minute scenic ride takes visitors through scenic Minnesota farmland, creating a nostalgic atmosphere perfect for all ages. The journey itself feels like a step back in time, with vintage train cars providing an authentic experience. Once at the pumpkin patch, kids can select their own pumpkins, making it a delightful hands-on activity. The event is packed with entertainment, including lively music, fun games, and a festive hayride that rounds out the day. Attendees can enjoy tasty treats and explore the depot’s rich history, immersing themselves in the stories of the past while reveling in seasonal fun. The Pumpkin Express is more than just a ride—it’s a treasured local tradition that celebrates community and harvest time, making it a standout activity in the area. Whether you're chasing the perfect pumpkin or just aiming for a fun-filled afternoon with family, this trip offers a compelling mix of history, nature, and seasonal joy. Located conveniently near the Twin Cities, this excursion is a fantastic way to indulge in fall festivities without straying too far from urban comforts. The mix of scenic train rides and farm-fresh pumpkins makes Pumpkin Express a must-visit for families seeking a memorable outdoor adventure in Minnesota.
easy.
0.5–1 hour.
Suitable for all ages and mobility levels
Yes, ample parking is available at the Dresser Depot and surrounding areas.
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed, but there are concessions available at the site.
Pets are not permitted on the train, but well-behaved dogs may be allowed on the farm grounds.
The train ride itself lasts approximately 25 minutes, with extra time for pumpkin picking and activities.
Yes, the train cars and depot are wheelchair accessible.
Fall weekends during daylight hours provide the most vibrant experience.
The Dresser Depot dates back to the late 1800s and played a pivotal role in Minnesota’s logging and transportation history.
Efforts are made to maintain the farm’s natural environment, with minimal impact practices and seasonal cleanup.
Minnesota Transportation Museum preserves and operates historic railroad equipment and runs scenic, themed train trips out of Osceola, Wisconsin. The museum operates vintage passenger cars, hosts narrated excursions through the St. Croix River Valley, and manages special events including family rides, seasonal festivals, and educational programs. Trains run from Osceola to destinations such as Dresser and feature experiences like the Pizza Train, Wine or Beer Tasting, Pumpkin Express, Fall Colors Train, and Dresser Lunch Train. The organization also offers admission to the Jackson Street Roundhouse in St. Paul, where visitors can explore interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes tours, and over fifty vintage train cars. Volunteers and knowledgeable hosts lead onboard storytelling, historical interpretation, and guest services that emphasize safety, accessibility, and authentic railroad heritage. The museum maintains and operates one of the last functioning turntables in the country, used during special events and roundhouse demonstrations. Educational programs include hands-on activities for children — highlighted by Tots & Trains — and living-history opportunities such as Railroad Reality Days. Facility amenities include historic depots in Osceola and Dresser, volunteer-guided tours, seasonal food and beverage pairings, and community-oriented events like Oktoberfest and Haunted Roundhouse. The museum partners with local vendors for locally sourced food on themed trains and relies on volunteer staff and preservation specialists for restoration and operations. Visitors can expect curated, schedule-based rides, family-friendly programming, and authentic historic equipment that showcases regional railroad history. Ticketed events follow set schedules and ticketing information is available on the museum's official website and box office locations.
Book with Minnesota Transportation Museum