Celebrate the holiday season with a scenic 55-minute train ride through Sauk County, filled with festive music, decorations, and treats. Discover historic trains and seasonal magic at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom, Wisconsin.
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
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages and abilities.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves historic steam and diesel locomotives, showcasing railroading heritage dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
The museum emphasizes sustainable heritage preservation through maintaining vintage equipment and educating visitors on responsible travel.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Celebrate the holiday season with a scenic 55-minute train ride through Sauk County, filled with festive music, decorations, and treats. Discover historic trains and seasonal magic at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom, Wisconsin.
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 Tickets Early
This popular holiday experience often sells out quickly, so secure your tickets well in advance.
Arrive Early for Museum Access
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before departure to explore the museum exhibits before your train ride.
Dress Warmly
Train cars can be chilly despite heating; layering ensures comfort throughout the ride.
Check Accessibility Options
The museum and train offer assistance for guests with mobility needs—contact ahead to arrange support.
Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable in potentially chilly train cars and outdoors.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture holiday decorations, scenic views, and unique moments during the ride.
Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking around the museum exhibits and boarding the train.
Small Backpack
Carry essentials like water, extra layers, and personal items with ease.