Are your kids fascinated by trains? For families in Wisconsin, you’re in luck because the state boasts a variety of exciting destinations perfect for young train enthusiasts. From interactive museums to scenic train rides, there’s something to delight every little conductor’s imagination.
We’re excited to highlight the most popular places across Wisconsin where families can explore the rich history of trains, enjoy hands-on exhibits, and experience the thrill of riding the rails. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with steam, tracks, and endless fun!
Popular Train Attractions in Wisconsin
The National Railroad Museum (Green Bay, WI)
The National Railroad Museum inspires lifelong learning by providing dynamic educational opportunities through the preservation of railroad objects, engaging exhibits, and innovative programs. The Children’s Discovery Depot inside the museum welcomes young visitors to the world of railroading while integrating elements of social studies, math and science.
2024-2025 events include The Great Pumpkin Train, The Polar Express, Holidays on the Rails, and many more.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Offers train rides, a large collection of historic trains, and hands-on exhibits that engage children in the fascinating world of railroads.
Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad (Spooner, WI)
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your day, book a train ride with the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad in northern Wisconsin. There are a variety of family-friendly train rides available, including the Pizza Train, perfect for the whole family. There’s even a Santa Train, complete with holiday cookies!
- What: Offers scenic train rides and themed excursions.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Kids can enjoy rides through beautiful northern Wisconsin, with themed events like wine and cheese trains and holiday specials.
Ride the Marine Train (Osceola, WI)
Pick up your boarding passes for the Marine Train in Osceola, WI and hop aboard this scenic train ride that takes you on a journey of 1.5 hours and lets you enjoy the foliage in the St. Croix River Valley and over into Minnesota.
- What: A scenic train ride through beautiful landscapes.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Families can enjoy a gorgeous, scenic train ride and then stop at one of several apple orchards and pick-your-own pumpkin patches open nearby seasonally.
The Mid-Continent Railway Museum (North Freedom, WI)
Mid-Continent Railway Museum is an outdoor living history museum and operating railroad recreating, preserving, and interpreting the small town/shortline way of life from the “Golden Age of Railroading.”
- What: A historic railway museum offering train rides and exhibits.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: Kids can take a ride on a vintage train and explore the museum’s impressive collection of restored railroad cars.
Milwaukee County Zoo (Milwaukee, WI)
- What: The biggest zoo in the state of Wisconsin also features the infamous Safari Train, a popular attraction for kids of all ages to ride. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your visit to the zoo!
- Ages: All ages.
Elkhart Lake Train Station (Elkhart Lake, WI)
- What: A charming historic train station.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: While not a museum, it offers a lovely spot for train-watching and photography, and occasional events bring trains to life for kids.
Old World Wisconsin (Eagle, WI)
Picture yourself surrounded by the Kettle Moraine Forest, lush farmland and unique old style villages. Try out an old-fashioned bicycle, watch the blacksmith make steel hooks or taste an old-fashioned soda from the General Store. This is Old World Wisconsin, a 600-acre historic site featuring 8 ethnic farms and an 1880s village filled with hands-on activities for all ages.
- What: A living history museum that includes train exhibits.
- Ages: All ages.
- Details: While exploring the history of immigrants, families can also learn about early rail travel and its impact on Wisconsin.
Railroad Park (Burlington, WI)
- What: A park featuring a replica train and railroad-themed playground.
- Ages: Preschool to early adolescents.
- Details: Kids can play in a train-themed environment while enjoying the park’s amenities.
These destinations are sure to spark the imagination of any train-loving child, offering a mix of history, adventure, and fun that families can enjoy together throughout Wisconsin!
