Attraction Guide: Mid-Continent Railway Museum, Baraboo, United States

Mid-Continent Railway Museum Guide

All Aboard! Relive the Golden Age of Rail at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum Guide

Step back in time and experience the romance of rail travel at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom, Wisconsin, just outside of Baraboo. This isn't just a museum; it's a living, breathing testament to the history of railroads in America. From meticulously restored locomotives to vintage passenger cars, you'll be transported to an era when trains were the lifeblood of the nation. Founded in 1959, the Mid-Continent Railway Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of short-line railroads and the equipment they used. The museum's collection includes a wide variety of locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars, and other railroad artifacts, many of which are operational. The museum's focus is on the period between 1880 and 1916, a time when railroads played a crucial role in the development of the American Midwest. The highlight of a visit to the Mid-Continent Railway Museum is undoubtedly the opportunity to ride a vintage train! Enjoy a scenic 5.5-mile round trip through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside aboard a restored passenger train. Explore the museum's exhibits, which showcase the history of railroading and the lives of the people who worked on the trains. You can also tour the car shops and see the ongoing restoration work. Special events are held throughout the year, including steam train excursions, holiday-themed rides, and educational programs.