There’s nothing better than welcoming fall in Wisconsin. Whether you’re a fan of Halloween, a pumpkin spice enthusiast, or more of a casual admirer of this crisp, colorful season, it’s tough to deny the delights of a cozy family outing during the fall months. If you’re hoping to fill your calendar with fun things to do, there are loads of fall day trips in Wisconsin — but few compare to the simple magic of a train ride. Luckily for fall fans of all ages, there are plenty of pumpkin trains and Halloween train rides in Wisconsin just waiting to be appreciated. Plan to hitch a ride on one of these pumpkin trains for an awesome Wisconsin autumn experience.

1. Mid-Continent Railway Museum (North Freedom)
Facebook/MidContinentRailwayMuseum
Looking for "Halloween train rides near me?" When you embark on a fall journey with the Mid-Content Railway, you'll have two seasonal options: the Pumpkin Special or the Autumn Color Weekend. If you opt for the Pumpkin Special, get ready for an hour-long journey that includes a stop for pumpkin-selecting at Quartzite Lake. The Autumn Color Weekend has limited dates but highlights some of the prettiest sights in the region. Find out more at the Mid-Continent Railway website.
Mid-Continent Railway Museum, E8948 Museum Rd, North Freedom, WI 53951, USA
Facebook/MidContinentRailwayMuseum
You'll need to pay separately for any pumpkins you select upon arriving at Quartzite Lake, but the memories you'll make on board are truly priceless.
2. Riverside and Great Northern Railway (Wisconsin Dells)
Facebook/Riverside & Great Northern Preservation Society
These folks have a 15-gauge light railway that runs throughout weekends in October. This is a decidedly family-friendly outing, as kids aged 12 and under will receive a free pumpkin or gourd to take home with the cost of admission. Talk about a fall blast!
Riverside & Great Northern Railway, N115 County Rd N, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
dellstrain.com
There are plenty of photo ops along the way when you ride with Riverside and Great Northern, so don't forget your camera to snap some memories on this pumpkin train.
Facebook/DellsTrain
You and your kids will love traveling along this fun "Little Railroad" route, which covers 35 acres. This dedicated railroad company prides itself on embracing the magic of Halloween and autumn as a whole, which only adds to the magic.

Take a look at this video by @dryftlist:
3. Little Amerricka Amusement Park (Marshall)
Rob S/TripAdvisor
This vintage amusement park, which draws in countless visitors during the warmer months, offers an awesome fall experience before they shut down for the remainder of the season.
Facebook/Little Amerricka
During weekends in October, visitors of all ages can hop aboard the pumpkin train and fall even more in love with autumn. For riders two and up, any pumpkin that can be carried is included in the admission price.

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Little Amerricka Amusement Park, 700 E Main St, Marshall, WI 53559, USA
JohnnyBoy J/Trip Advisor
To add a little extra fun to this outing, check out the concession stand at Little Amerricka. Nothing rounds out a pumpkin train ride like a cup of hot cocoa or a few snacks.
4. Minnesota Transport Museum (Osceola)
Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Ave E, St Paul, MN 55130, USA
Facebook/TransportationMuseum
Don't let the name fool you - while the Minnesota Transport Museum operates sites in Minnesota, it also has a location in Osceola that offers a pumpkin train ride adventure. Get ready for some real family fun.
Facebook/TransportationMuseum
You'll board the Pumpkin Express train in Osceola, then enjoy a 25-minute jaunt to the Dresser Depot. Upon stepping off the train, take time to explore everything from a small flea market to delicious treats to hayrides. We can't imagine a better way to appreciate the delights of October.
Facebook/TransportationMuseum
History buffs will appreciate the chance to explore the Dresser Depot itself, which dates back to 1884. Of course, don't forget to pick out a pumpkin while you're here -- they're available for kids aged 15 and under. This is such a great Halloween train ride to take this fall.
5. The National Railroad Museum (Green Bay)
Facebook/NationalRailroadMuseum
This place is an awesome stop no matter the time of year, but it's especially fun during the fall when its Great Pumpkin Train makes an appearance. This is so much more than a train ride: it's a full-day experience.
Facebook/NationalRailroadMuseum
There will be indoor live entertainment, crafts, and games for children of all ages, plus the train ride and a pumpkin to take home. Kids can even go trick-or-treating on the grounds of the museum for added sweetness.
National Railroad Museum, 2285 S Broadway, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304, USA
Facebook/NaitonalRailroadMuseum
If that weren't enough, the event will continue regardless of the weather. Rain or shine, you'll have the chance to appreciate seasonal fun at the National Railroad Museum.

Take a look at this video of a previous year's Pumpkin Train by @nbc26news:

Now that you’ve read about some of the best pumpkin train rides in Wisconsin, you might be ready to start planning your fall adventure. Have you ridden any of these exciting trains during previous autumn outings? Did we leave any off our list? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend additional fall day trips or pumpkin train rides in Wisconsin by completing our official nomination form.

Are you looking for more wholesome fun in the state? Read about this unique nature center in Wisconsin.

Looking for a place to stay when traveling around the state this fall? Check out some of the best places to stay in Wisconsin.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Sophie Boudreau | September 07, 2022

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