Adventure Brief
Enjoy an elegant dining experience combined with a thrilling murder mystery aboard the Murder Mystery Express in Duluth, Minnesota. Solve the crime while gazing at stunning views on the scenic North Shore.
3–4 hours
easy
From $132.50
Enjoy an elegant dining experience combined with a thrilling murder mystery aboard the Murder Mystery Express in Duluth, Minnesota. Solve the crime while gazing at stunning views on the scenic North Shore.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness requirements; suitable for all adults who can enjoy sitting for an extended duration.
Wildlife
History
The North Shore Scenic Railroad preserves a historic rail line connecting Duluth with the scenic towns along Lake Superior’s shore, celebrating the region’s transportation heritage.
Conservation
The railroad and museum actively promote sustainable tourism practices to protect the natural beauty of the North Shore and minimize environmental impact.
North Shore Scenic Railroad & Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Enjoy an elegant dining experience combined with a thrilling murder mystery aboard the Murder Mystery Express in Duluth, Minnesota. Solve the crime while gazing at stunning views on the scenic North Shore.
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 to Secure Seats
This popular event often sells out quickly, so reserve your tickets well in advance to guarantee your spot.
Dress Smart Casual
The event’s elegant atmosphere calls for smart casual attire, balancing comfort with style.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in smoothly and explore the train cars.
Allergy and Dietary Options Available
Contact the company in advance if you have dietary restrictions; they work to accommodate most needs.
Smart Casual Outfit
Dressing smart casual suits the elegant atmosphere of the train and dinner.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Spring evenings can be cool, so layering is recommended for comfort.
spring
Warm Coat and Gloves
Cooler fall temperatures call for warm outerwear during boarding or after the trip.
fall
Camera or Smartphone
Capture panoramic views from the dome car and memorable moments during the event.