Experience Grandma’s Marathon in a new way aboard a scenic railroad train. Watch elite runners race past while enjoying comfortable seats, great food, and stunning views from Duluth.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
This experience requires minimal physical exertion, suitable for all fitness levels as most time is spent seated onboard the train.
Wildlife
History
The North Shore Scenic Railroad runs on historic rail lines that contributed to Duluth's development as a major port and industrial hub.
Conservation
Efforts are made to maintain the natural lakeshore environment and reduce rail-related impacts through sustainable tourism practices.
North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Experience Grandma’s Marathon in a new way aboard a scenic railroad train. Watch elite runners race past while enjoying comfortable seats, great food, and stunning views from Duluth.
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
The viewing train is popular and fills quickly during marathon weekend, so reserve your spot well in advance.
Dress in Layers
Minnesota weather can change rapidly, especially near Lake Superior; layering ensures comfort throughout the day.
Bring Binoculars
To get a closer view of runners and marathon details from the train, binoculars come in handy.
Arrive Early at Canal Park
Finish line viewing spots fill fast—arriving early secures a great vantage point of the marathon’s first finishers.
Layered Clothing
To adjust easily to variable temperatures during the spring marathon weekend.
spring
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from prolonged sun exposure during the summer train ride and marathon.
summer
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting runners and details from a distance along the train route.
Comfortable Footwear
Recommended for walking around stations and Canal Park before and after the train ride.