5 Family-Friendly Wisconsin Train Rides

The blast of the whistle, the thunder of the engine, the sweeping views of land rolling by – the sights and sounds of a Wisconsin train excursion are a thrill for young and old alike. A visit to the railroad museum means getting up close and personal with impressive locomotives, and promises a unique and exciting experience for the whole family.

Rail travel has long been a part of our state’s history, and these Wisconsin railways are bringing that fascinating story to life with hands-on activities, displays, and rides on their historic trains. All aboard!

Camp Five Museum & Lumberjack Steam Train – Laona

Take a step back in time with a ride on this old fashioned steam train. Complete with two passenger cars, and open-air observation car, and three cabooses, the Lumberjack Steam Train shuttles passengers back to the late 1800’s.

Hop off at Camp 5, the site of a Northwoods logging camp of centuries past. Explore historic buildings and original barns, then step inside the Logging Museum and Blacksmith Shop for a closer look at the camp’s antique artifacts.

Little Falls Railroad and Doll Museum – Sparta

With plenty of hands-on activities, train rides, and opportunities for play, the Little Falls Railroad is the perfect place for a day of fun with your little conductors. Children can explore and play on a 40-foot “pretend” train, then climb aboard the real thing and see the view from the back of a full-size caboose.

A large playground, museum, children’s train ride, and toddler tricycle trail round up a full day of excitement. And be sure to check out the Garden Railroad, where model trains weave through miniature versions of Sparta, Cataract, and Tunnel City!

Mining Museum & Rollo Jamison Museums – Platteville

Immerse your family in the magnificent history of mining by taking a tour underground to experience the daily lives of miners. The Lead Mine Tour guides visitors through the depths of an 1800’s era mine, and continues above ground with a ride on a 1931 mine train.

Carry on exploring at the museum, where permanent exhibits on lead and zinc showcase Platteville’s local history through photographs, maps, and artifacts.

Riverside & Great Northern Railway – Wisconsin Dells

This 15-gauge railroad bills itself as a “living museum,” and offers visitors the chance to ride live steam trains. Hop on to experience the natural beauty of Wisconsin Dells, from its awe-inspiring canyons to its enchanting wooded forests, along a charming three-mile track.

For a full day adventure, pack a picnic to be enjoyed on the grounds, and watch the trains chug along as the afternoon rolls on.

East Troy Railroad Museum – East Troy

Have some fun on the go with this 15 mile round trip train! The train, traveling just outside of Milwaukee, offers themed rides for birthdays, Christmas, and more. Possible stops along the ride include the Elegant Farmer, where you can enjoy a famous apple pie in a bag, or Indianhead Park, home to a sandy beach and large grassy area for outdoor fun. This train trip is a family adventure that’ll keep the kids talking for years to come.

Your Wisconsin train adventure continues with a ride on these Scenic Fall Trains!