Experience an authentic ride aboard a historic 1944 ALCO S-1 locomotive with the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. Travel scenic Wisconsin rails and explore fascinating exhibits.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness requirements; suitable for all ages with some walking around museum grounds.
Wildlife
History
The ALCO S-1 locomotive MCRY #7 represents classic mid-20th century diesel engines used extensively in American railroads during the 1940s and 1950s.
Conservation
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum promotes sustainable tourism by preserving historic rail equipment and encouraging responsible visitation practices.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Experience an authentic ride aboard a historic 1944 ALCO S-1 locomotive with the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. Travel scenic Wisconsin rails and explore fascinating exhibits.
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.
Arrive Early for Museum Tours
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your ride to explore the museum exhibits and historic train cars.
Wear Comfortable Close-Toed Shoes
You’ll be walking on gravel and around train cars, so sturdy shoes will keep you safe and comfortable.
Bring Layers for Changing Weather
The cab can get warm from the engine heat, but outdoor areas may be cooler, so dress in layers.
Reserve Your Private Ride in Advance
Private rides are limited and popular, so book ahead to secure your preferred date and time.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sturdy shoes help navigate uneven surfaces around trains and museum grounds.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during cool spring mornings or breezes near the lake.
spring
Sunscreen
Protects skin during sunny summer outings around the tracks and museum.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture unique photos of the locomotive, trains, and scenic views.