Adventure Brief
Treat Dad to a scenic train ride and BBQ feast this Father’s Day in Duluth. Enjoy Famous Dave’s ribs and chicken while cruising the North Shore aboard a vintage Dining Car.
1.25–2.5 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Treat Dad to a scenic train ride and BBQ feast this Father’s Day in Duluth. Enjoy Famous Dave’s ribs and chicken while cruising the North Shore aboard a vintage Dining Car.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.25–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required as this is a seated train experience suitable for all ages.
Wildlife
History
The North Shore Scenic Railroad operates vintage railcars that reflect Duluth's rich railroad heritage dating back to the early 20th century.
Conservation
The railroad supports sustainable tourism by preserving historic rail infrastructure and promoting responsible enjoyment of natural landscapes.
North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Treat Dad to a scenic train ride and BBQ feast this Father’s Day in Duluth. Enjoy Famous Dave’s ribs and chicken while cruising the North Shore aboard a vintage Dining Car.
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.
Location
Duluth, MN
On the Lake Superior North Shore
Experiences
10 train trips
Coach, Dome, and steam options
Museum Combo
Half-price pass
Add at checkout or ticket pickup
Special Events
Holiday & seasonal trains
Includes Christmas, beer tasting, Terror Train
Book coach seats, First Class Dome Car, or special-event trains — add a half-price museum pass when purchasing tickets.
Book Early
Spaces fill up quickly for Father’s Day trips, so reserve your seat well in advance to secure your spot.
Dress for Comfort
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing as the temperature can vary during the train ride.
Arrive Early
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to enjoy the museum exhibits and boarding process without rushing.
Bring a Camera
Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning lakeside views and memorable moments aboard the train.
Light Jacket
Spring temperatures can be cool onboard or during stops, making a jacket handy.
spring
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from bright sunlight during the daytime train ride.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the scenic views and memorable moments along the North Shore.
Comfortable Footwear
Wear shoes suitable for walking at the train station and around the museum.