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Ride the rails along Wisconsin’s St. Croix River with the Minnesota Transportation Museum’s Oktoberfest train trip—90 minutes of rolling craft beer and cheese tastings against a scenic river backdrop. A unique way to celebrate autumn with friends or family.
Ride the rails along Wisconsin’s St. Croix River with the Minnesota Transportation Museum’s Oktoberfest train trip—90 minutes of rolling craft beer and cheese tastings against a scenic river backdrop. A unique way to celebrate autumn with friends or family.
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Operated by Minnesota Transportation Museum · Osceola, Wisconsin
Just across the border in Osceola, Wisconsin, the Minnesota Transportation Museum presents a unique twist on both history and local flavor with its Oktoberfest train experience. This 90-minute journey aboard vintage first-class cars glides along the St. Croix River, where shimmering water and forested bluffs carve a stunning natural corridor. The St. Croix Valley is known for its mix of rugged sandstone cliffs and lush northern hardwood forests, creating a dramatic backdrop that shifts beautifully with the seasons.
What sets this trip apart is its combination of scenic rail travel and a curated craft beer and cheese tasting. Travelers settle into comfortable seats as a friendly host guides the experience, introducing five locally brewed beer selections paired carefully with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, and complementary bites. It’s not just a ride—it’s a rolling social gathering, filled with conversation and laughter, perfect for groups of friends or families looking to savor the harvest season in style.
The train departs promptly from Osceola’s historic depot, a small town that maintains a strong connection to its river and rail heritage. While the rolling hills and meandering river offer a peaceful escape, the train itself provides modern comforts paired with nostalgic charm, making each car a cozy venue to unwind and enjoy.
This Oktoberfest service is a standout for the region, blending cultural celebration with accessible adventure. It's an ideal option for those who want to unplug from routine without leaving behind quality and conviviality. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a food lover, or a nature admirer, the Minnesota Transportation Museum’s Oktoberfest journey offers a fresh way to experience the St. Croix Valley’s scenic and culinary riches.
easy.
1.5 hours.
No special fitness needed; guests remain seated during the ride and tasting.
The Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway has a wheelchair lift for boarding, but car interiors and passageways have narrow doorways and uneven floors. Assistance is available—contact the ticket agent for help.
Yes, restrooms are located on the concession car and possibly one other car, with the concession car restroom being accessible.
No, the train does not allow passengers to disembark until the ride is complete at the Osceola station.
There is ample parking next to and below the Osceola depot.
Small coolers are allowed, but the Oktoberfest package includes a tasting menu and drinks. Alcohol sales are available on board.
The trip lasts approximately 90 minutes, covering about 20 miles round trip along the St. Croix River.
The St. Croix Valley was historically a key trade and transportation corridor, with railroads playing a central role in regional development since the late 19th century.
Efforts along the St. Croix River aim to preserve water quality and native species, maintaining the ecological health visitors can appreciate during train travels.
Minnesota Transportation Museum preserves and operates historic railroad equipment and runs scenic, themed train trips out of Osceola, Wisconsin. The museum operates vintage passenger cars, hosts narrated excursions through the St. Croix River Valley, and manages special events including family rides, seasonal festivals, and educational programs. Trains run from Osceola to destinations such as Dresser and feature experiences like the Pizza Train, Wine or Beer Tasting, Pumpkin Express, Fall Colors Train, and Dresser Lunch Train. The organization also offers admission to the Jackson Street Roundhouse in St. Paul, where visitors can explore interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes tours, and over fifty vintage train cars. Volunteers and knowledgeable hosts lead onboard storytelling, historical interpretation, and guest services that emphasize safety, accessibility, and authentic railroad heritage. The museum maintains and operates one of the last functioning turntables in the country, used during special events and roundhouse demonstrations. Educational programs include hands-on activities for children — highlighted by Tots & Trains — and living-history opportunities such as Railroad Reality Days. Facility amenities include historic depots in Osceola and Dresser, volunteer-guided tours, seasonal food and beverage pairings, and community-oriented events like Oktoberfest and Haunted Roundhouse. The museum partners with local vendors for locally sourced food on themed trains and relies on volunteer staff and preservation specialists for restoration and operations. Visitors can expect curated, schedule-based rides, family-friendly programming, and authentic historic equipment that showcases regional railroad history. Ticketed events follow set schedules and ticketing information is available on the museum's official website and box office locations.
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