Wisconsin’s Best Train Rides for Families (2024)
There’s something magical about train rides that sparks the imagination, especially for kids (and let’s be real, for many of us adults too). Whether it’s the the old railcars, the scenic countryside views, or special events, Wisconsin offers a variety of family-friendly train experiences perfect for making lasting memories.
In this guide, we’re highlighting some of the best scenic train rides across the state for families. From the Pizza Train to the Pumpkin Train and even a Breakfast Train, Wisconsin’s scenic railways are the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family moments.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum (North Freedom, WI)
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum, located in the small town of North Freedom, is a fun way to step back in time. With its collection of vintage train cars and locomotives, you and your family can hop on a relaxing ride through the scenic Baraboo Hills. The train rides are on restored early 1900s railcars, giving you a real taste of what rail travel used to be like.
They also host seasonal events like the Pumpkin Train Ride in the fall and the Santa Express during the holidays. These themed rides make for extra special family memories, so be sure to check their event calendar!
Riverside and Great Northern Railway (Wisconsin Dells, WI)
The train ride follows the original 1850s rail bed, and one of the highlights for many is watching the engine get turned around on the hand-operated roundtable. It’s a 30-minute round trip in a miniature train while enjoying the beautiful Wisconsin countryside and listening to local history. A fun trip for the whole family!
Throughout October, the Riverside and Great Northern Railroad offers families a chance to hop aboard their ‘pumpkin trains’. Every Saturday and Sunday, kids 12 and under will receive a free pumpkin with the purchase of a train ride ticket as part of the pumpkin special. The rides depart hourly from Hyde Park Station, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with each trip lasting about 30 to 45 minutes. For families looking for a fall adventure, this ride is a must!
National Railroad Museum (Green Bay, WI)
Although not a traditional scenic train ride, the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay offers an excellent educational experience. The museum showcases an extensive collection of historic trains, including the famous Big Boy locomotive, and offers unique, hands-on experiences. Kids and adults alike will love the interactive exhibits and short train rides, which loop around the museum grounds for a perfect blend of learning and fun.
Support the Museum’s programs and operations while enjoying a memorable fall adventure with your family by going on “The Great Pumpkin Train“. Tickets are $20 per person and your admission includes a scenic train ride to the pumpkin patch, where you can pick your very own pumpkin to take home.
But that’s just the beginning! With your ticket, you’ll also enjoy indoor live entertainment, balloons by Mischief & Magic, crafts, trick-or-treating around the museum grounds, games for kids of all ages, a balloon animal, and a not-so-scary haunted house. You’ll even get a chance to operate the vintage handcar. Plus, you can explore the museum’s historic trains and interactive exhibits throughout the day.
The Great Pumpkin Train runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and while your ticket reserves your specific train ride time, you’re free to enjoy all other activities at any point during the day. Rain or shine
Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad (Trego, WI)
The Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad in Trego offers its popular Pizza Train, a family favorite each season. Passengers can choose from freshly baked pepperoni, sausage, or cheese pizza, made right in the dining car. The Pizza Train experience includes a personal pizza and a drink. The 2-hour journey takes you through farm fields, deep woods, and along the scenic Namekagon River, with a stop at the Bean Creek Trestle for a memorable outing. A delicious way to combine dinner and adventure!
Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad also offers a Bed & Breakfast Train, in which you board a beautifully restored train, unload your personal belongings, and grab a cocktail before dinner. Start the evening by grabbing a cocktail before enjoying a delicious multi-course meal with appetizers, soup, and a choice of entrees, followed by gourmet dessert.
As you dine, the train leisurely glides through picturesque farm fields, woods, and along the Namekagon River. The night winds down with games, cocktails, or relaxing by the fire at the station patio. Then, retire to your cozy cabin for the night. In the morning, enjoy a continental breakfast followed by a hot meal in the dining car. Check-out is at 10 a.m.
More Fun for Kids:
Timbavati Wildlife (Wisconsin Dells)
My toddler’s first train ride was at Timbavati Wildlife Park, and he couldn’t stop smiling the entire time! It’s a 20-minute ride and takes you through a section of the park with stops where you can feed or view the animals up close. It’s a magical experience for little ones who love animals!
Somewhat pricey, tickets for the train are an additional cost on top of zoo admission—$11.95 for adults (13+) and $9.95 for children (2-12). Animal food is an additional cost. But the joy on your child’s face during the ride? Priceless.
If you’re short on time or just want to experience the train ride, you can purchase a ticket without needing to explore the rest of the park.
Milwaukee County Zoo (Milwaukee)
The best train rides for kids include animals. The Milwaukee Zoo offers a relaxing train ride on the Safari Train, which takes passengers on a loop around the zoo grounds. Admission is $4 plus sales tax for adults and children. Perfect for a day of animals and adventure!
Little Amerricka (Marshall)
Little Amerricka Amusement Park offers a fun, 2-mile train experience that weaves outside the park, through a campground, and past some farm animals for a fun browsing experience! It’s a great mix of amusement park fun and a peaceful train ride!
Henry Vilas Zoo (Madison)
The Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison offers a short but enjoyable train ride that’s perfect for young kids. For just $3 per ticket, the train takes you on a quick 5-minute loop, passing by a few of the zoo’s exhibits. It’s a fun way to get a different view of the animals while giving little ones a brief but memorable train experience during your zoo visit!
So, whether it’s fall foliage, a journey back in time, or a slice of pizza on the rails, these train experiences are a wonderful way to explore Wisconsin with your family this season. All aboard for some unforgettable autumn adventures!
