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There’s something nostalgic about train rides in an era of Ubers and smart cars. A vintage "steam locomotive" chugging through America’s backyard paints a picturesque image of the good land, especially when warm autumnal hues of orange, yellow and red are involved.
A fall train trip this year might just be your ticket to breathtaking scenery and lifelong memories as you wind through Wisconsin’s stunning foliage – not to mention with a dose of gourmet food and drink. From Art Deco cars to cocktails and cards in a midcentury lounge, here are some railway excursions well worth the ride.
East Troy Electric Railroad Dinner Train – East Troy
Art Deco railroad cars add visual intrigue to this old-fashioned excursion at the East Troy Electric Dinner Train. Restored coaches of the Chicago South Shore & South Bend Railroad transport guests to the early twentieth century with gourmet food and a hint of whimsical romance. Mix with fall in Wisconsin, and you might just have the recipe for a perfect date. Dress to impress and save room for the artisan cheese course.
Beer Train at Mid-Continent Railway – North Freedom
When beer is included in the ticket price, you know it’s going to be good. Although Mid-Continent Railway in North Freedom offers a variety of themed train rides through the Baraboo Hills, the beer tasting train features a bit more with a relaxing journey accompanied by refreshing Wisconsin beers and snacks. Samples will be given from various Wisconsin breweries along the way. Come at peak color time when the maple trees turn a brilliant gold.
Brunch at Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway – Osceola
The Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway will take you back in time. This fully restored 1916 SOO Line Depot in Osceola offers a vintage train car experience on a 20-mile journey along the breathtaking St. Croix River, dotted with tall pine trees and vibrant foliage. The route includes a visit to neighboring Minnesota as you stop in Marine, then return to Osceola. Not to mention, you can book a special champagne brunch trip complete with eggs benedict, potatoes, fresh fruit and, yes, champagne.
Bed & Breakfast Train on the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad – Spooner
Located only four miles north of Spooner, this train trek runs between Spooner and Springbook on a 100-year-old track. The concept of a mobile bed and breakfast is a bucket list-worthy excursion, and the Wisconsin Great Railroad offers just that. Between gourmet meals, you can watch a film, enjoy cocktails, play card games in the lounge and enjoy northwest Wisconsin’s fall color display. A 1950s sleeping car is sure to add the right touch of romance and adventure to your fall weekend getaway.