Ride vintage locomotives and step into Wisconsin’s railroading history at Mid-Continent Railway Museum. Seasonal and special event trains offer hands-on heritage rides for all ages.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes to 1 hour ride plus optional museum tours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves a collection of historic railroad equipment mainly from the mid-20th century, emphasizing preservation and education on regional railroading.
Conservation
The museum practices sustainable restoration by reusing original materials whenever possible and educating visitors on the importance of preserving industrial heritage.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Ride vintage locomotives and step into Wisconsin’s railroading history at Mid-Continent Railway Museum. Seasonal and special event trains offer hands-on heritage rides for all ages.
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.
Book Seasonal Rides Early
Popular themed trains like the Santa Express and Autumn Color sell out fast—reserve your seat ahead of time.
Arrive Prepared for Weather
Train rides expose you to the elements; dress in layers and bring sun protection in summer or warm gear in fall.
Accessibility Options Available
Most train rides and museum facilities are handicap accessible—contact the museum ahead for specific accommodations.
Allow Time for Museum and Tours
Plan at least 1–2 hours in addition to your train ride to tour indoor exhibits and the engine house.
Layered Clothing
Adapt to fluctuating temperatures both on the open train and in museum spaces.
all
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for exposed outdoor waiting areas and train cars.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the historic trains and scenic railroad surroundings throughout the year.
all
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during warmer months while waiting for your train or walking the grounds.
summer