Hop aboard the Stars & Stripes Special for a festive 55-minute train ride through Wisconsin’s scenic Baraboo Hills. Enjoy historic cars, tasty treats, and family fun at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
55 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and seniors.
Wildlife
History
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum preserves historic rail equipment and celebrates the significance of railroads in the development of Wisconsin.
Conservation
The museum promotes sustainability by maintaining restored railcars and encouraging responsible visitation to protect the natural Baraboo Hills environment.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum
Hop aboard the Stars & Stripes Special for a festive 55-minute train ride through Wisconsin’s scenic Baraboo Hills. Enjoy historic cars, tasty treats, and family fun at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum.
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 Access
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to explore the museum exhibits and get the full experience.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even summer evenings can get cool near the hills and along the tracks; a light jacket keeps you comfortable.
Stay Hydrated
Though snow cones are available, bring water especially for warmer days or after exploring the museum grounds.
Footwear for Uneven Terrain
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around historic train cars and museum grounds that may have gravel or uneven surfaces.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides stability while exploring uneven museum grounds and boarding coaches.
Sunhat or Cap
Protects from sun exposure during outdoor waiting times and scenic views.
summer
Light Jacket
Keeps you warm during cool spring evenings or breezy train rides.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warmer weather excursions.
summer