Step aboard the Santa Express in North Freedom, Wisconsin, for a festive 55-minute train ride with Santa himself. Enjoy holiday magic in early 1900s coaches and make lasting Christmas memories.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
55 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, including children and seniors.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves a collection of early 20th-century railroad equipment critical to Wisconsin's transportation heritage.
Conservation
The museum emphasizes sustainable practices by restoring and maintaining historic railcars, extending their life and limiting waste.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Step aboard the Santa Express in North Freedom, Wisconsin, for a festive 55-minute train ride with Santa himself. Enjoy holiday magic in early 1900s coaches and make lasting Christmas memories.
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 Secure Seating
Trains fill up quickly during the holiday season, so plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for the best seating options.
Dress Warmly for the Train Ride
Though the cars are steam heated, temperatures can drop while boarding and during outdoor wait times—dress in layered clothing for comfort.
Plan for Limited Parking
Parking at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum can be limited during peak holiday times; consider carpooling or arriving early to avoid hassle.
Bring a Camera for Memorable Photos
Capture the beautifully decorated coaches and your family’s visit with Santa, but be mindful of other guests when taking pictures onboard.
Warm Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable during outdoor waiting and travel on the heated but vintage train cars.
winter
Comfortable Footwear
Helpful for walking around the museum grounds before or after your train ride.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture festive moments and charming historic train cars throughout your visit.
Small Backpack or Bag
Convenient for carrying gifts, snacks, and extra clothing layers.