Sip hot chocolate in a vintage coach as holiday music accompanies a rural evening rail ride
55 minutes
Train ride, hot chocolate, museum
Settle into a restored early-1900s coach for a festive ride through rural Sauk County. Seasonal decorations and music set the scene as North Pole elves serve hot chocolate, a cookie, and holiday candies at your seat.
Your ticket also includes time to explore the Mid-Continent Railway Museum's display buildings and outdoor collection of historic rail equipment before or after the ride.
Cancel up to 14 days before the event for a refund minus a 25% processing and handling fee. Booking convenience fees are non-refundable. Within 14 days, if the train is sold out and your reservation is resold, you will receive a refund minus a 25% processing and handling fee.
Product ID: 8W2FWM
No. Santa is not scheduled to appear on this train.
Dress in layers. Onboard temperatures can vary by up to 20 degrees, and the museum display buildings are unheated. Dress warmly for outdoor and museum exploration.
Arrive early to view the outdoor exhibits before sunset, as outdoor museum lighting is limited.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum depot, E8948 Museum Road, North Freedom, WI 53951
This museum pulls in serious praise from train enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, with volunteers consistently earning recognition for their knowledge and enthusiasm. The restored rolling stock collection is impressive, housed in large sheds with everything from passenger cars to unique pieces like the historic fish car. Most guests appreciate the hour-long train rides through the countryside, though a few found the pace slower than expected and the route less scenic than anticipated. The experience can feel a bit confusing for first-timers trying to navigate what's included and where they can explore independently. Some visitors had trouble figuring out the self-guided museum portions or found viewing the trains from ground level limiting since you can't enter many cars. However, those who engaged with the volunteer-led tours and cab rides (book ahead, only one rider per excursion) came away genuinely impressed. The gift shop stands out for offering actual railroadiana collectibles rather than typical tourist merchandise. If you're into railroad history, the volunteers' dedication and the quality of restoration work make this worth the visit.
Absolutely phenomenal place! Great displays and artifacts, plus an awesome gift shop.
Terry Mattox
September 2, 2026
Absolutely phenomenal place! Great displays and artifacts, plus an awesome gift shop.
Terry Mattox
September 2, 2026
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