Is the train accessible for passengers with mobility needs?

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.

Are restrooms available on board?

Yes, restrooms are located on the concession car and possibly one other car, with the concession car restroom being accessible.

Can I get off the train mid-ride to visit nearby towns?

No, the train does not allow passengers to disembark until the ride is complete at the Osceola station.

Where can I park if I’m driving to Osceola for the trip?

There is ample parking next to and below the Osceola depot.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on the train?

Small coolers are allowed, but the Oktoberfest package includes a tasting menu and drinks. Alcohol sales are available on board.

How long is the Oktoberfest train ride?

The trip lasts approximately 90 minutes, covering about 20 miles round trip along the St. Croix River.

Oktoberfest Train Journey with Minnesota Transportation Museum

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.

About Minnesota Transportation Museum

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.