Enjoy a nostalgic 55-minute train ride through Sauk County while savoring a classic root beer float. Discover vintage coaches and historic exhibits at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum near North Freedom, WI.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
55 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels as most time is spent seated.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves and operates historic railway equipment primarily from the early 20th century, providing a living history experience of railroading in the Midwest.
Conservation
The museum promotes sustainability by maintaining and restoring historic trains rather than building new infrastructure, reducing environmental impact while educating visitors about transportation history.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Enjoy a nostalgic 55-minute train ride through Sauk County while savoring a classic root beer float. Discover vintage coaches and historic exhibits at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum near North Freedom, WI.
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 to Explore the Museum
Give yourself extra time to tour the museum’s historical train exhibits before your ride starts.
Bring Cash for Souvenirs
The gift shop accepts cash and card, but having cash handy can speed up purchases.
Dress for the Weather
The train has open windows and some outdoor boarding areas—dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Book Tickets in Advance
This popular seasonal train ride often sells out quickly, so reserve your spot ahead of time.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during cooler spring weather and breezes on the train.
spring
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from sun exposure during the summer ride.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture nostalgic views and the scenic countryside along the route.
Comfortable Shoes
Useful for walking around the museum and train boarding areas.