Enjoy a crisp autumn afternoon aboard a restored early-1900s train with spiked apple cider and donuts. Discover why Harvest Happy Hour in North Freedom, Wisconsin is the perfect fall outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
55 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most physical conditions; minimal walking and easy boarding steps required.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves historic railway equipment and artifacts from early 20th-century railroading in Wisconsin.
Conservation
The museum actively promotes sustainable tourism by maintaining the restored coaches and preserving the surrounding natural landscape.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Enjoy a crisp autumn afternoon aboard a restored early-1900s train with spiked apple cider and donuts. Discover why Harvest Happy Hour in North Freedom, Wisconsin is the perfect fall outing.
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.
Arrive Early to Explore the Museum
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your ride to explore the museum exhibits without feeling rushed.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can vary on the train and outdoors, so wearing layers helps keep you comfortable throughout the ride.
Moderate Mobility Required
The train cars have steps to board, so be prepared for modest physical effort and mobility considerations.
No Outside Food or Drink Permitted
Enjoy the included cider and donut onboard, as outside food and beverages are not allowed during the ride.
Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable as temperatures vary during the ride and outside exploration.
fall
Comfortable Shoes
Helpful for walking around the museum and boarding the train safely.
Compact Camera or Smartphone
Perfect for capturing the beautiful fall foliage and vintage train details.
Light Rain Jacket
Protects you from unexpected showers during spring months.
spring