Riverside and Great Northern Railway
Ride a charming miniature steam train through scenic Wisconsin woods, explore historic locomotives, and enjoy family-friendly amenities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Special pumpkin trains!
Riverside and Great Northern Railway
Best Time
Special pumpkin trains!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a charming miniature steam train through scenic Wisconsin woods, explore historic locomotives, and enjoy family-friendly amenities.
"A fantastic place to take the family! Enjoy a scenic ride through the wilderness on a miniature steam locomotive."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Consider buying tickets online to save time and ensure your spot. :ticket:
🚂 Railfan Paradise
Perfect for train enthusiasts! See working steam engines and learn about their mechanics. :steam_locomotive:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Miniature Train Ride
Throughout the grounds
Enjoy a delightful 30-minute ride on a steam or diesel locomotive through two miles of wooded wilderness.
Locomotive Displays
Train village
Explore a collection of meticulously maintained steam and diesel locomotives, including a 1916 model.
Picnic Pavilion & Play Area
Main grounds
Relax and refuel at the picnic pavilion with concessions, or let the kids burn energy in the play area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Miniature Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Consider buying tickets online to save time and ensure your spot. :ticket:
🚂 Railfan Paradise
Perfect for train enthusiasts! See working steam engines and learn about their mechanics. :steam_locomotive:
🌳 Scenic Nature Views
The train ride offers beautiful views of woods, ravines, and nature.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Guaranteed
Great for all ages, with play areas and concessions available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Consider buying tickets online to save time and ensure your spot. :ticket:
🚂 Railfan Paradise
Perfect for train enthusiasts! See working steam engines and learn about their mechanics. :steam_locomotive:
🌳 Scenic Nature Views
The train ride offers beautiful views of woods, ravines, and nature.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Guaranteed
Great for all ages, with play areas and concessions available.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Plenty of spots for memorable photos, especially around the trains. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Riverside and Great Northern Railway as a fantastic family-friendly attraction. The scenic miniature train ride, well-maintained grounds, and friendly staff are major highlights. While the ride itself is relatively short, the overall experience, especially for train enthusiasts and families with young children, is highly recommended and considered well worth the ticket price.
"This is a fantastic place to take the family! We took our toddlers and they enjoyed playing on all that was offered. The grounds are very well maintained and the staff are all super friendly. A miniature steam locomotive will take you down the track and back offering a scenic view through the wilderness. I would definitely visit again if we came back!!"
Steven McGinley
"My son (13) and I were in the Dells for a family trip last week. He is a HUGE railfan and was all in on this railway. Loved seeing a working steam engine and appreciated the explanation of how it operates. Lovely trip through the woods, and the crew even allowed him to help with filling the water tank. :) Grounds are taken care of, nice facilities with a concession stand and gift shop. Not to miss, especially if you're traveling with kids or train fans. Highly recommended!"
Kim Daniels
"If you like scenic miniature train rides this one is a must. Large parking lot, gift shop, and picnic pavilion on-site. Features a 4-4-2 steam and diesel electric locomotives. The cars are small, are covered, and each unit can accommodate 4 average sized people. Train ride runs several miles with interesting geology and nature along the route."
Luke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Riverside and Great Northern Railway is located in Wisconsin Dells. It has a large parking lot available for visitors. Many visitors find it conveniently located, with some even walking from nearby campgrounds.
Yes, there is a large parking lot available for visitors at the Riverside and Great Northern Railway.
Depending on your location, it might be possible to walk. One visitor mentioned walking over from their campground.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific prices aren't listed here, reviews suggest the ticket price is considered well worth the experience. It's recommended to check their official website or book online for the most current pricing.
It is recommended to buy tickets online, as it can make the process flow smoother and ensure you get your desired ride time, especially during busy periods.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. They are known to offer special 'pumpkin trains' in October. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours.
Information on discounts is not readily available in the provided content. It's advisable to check their official website or inquire directly for any potential offers.
Yes, walk-ins are offered, but purchasing tickets online is recommended for a smoother experience.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The train ride is a scenic, approximately 30-minute journey on a miniature steam or diesel locomotive through two miles of wooded wilderness, featuring interesting geology and nature. +1
They feature miniature steam locomotives, including a 1916 model, and diesel electric locomotives. Restoration projects are also underway for other engines.
Yes, there's a play area for children, and after the train ride, there are little board games to play.
The grounds are well-maintained with a picnic pavilion that offers concessions, a gift shop, and clean restrooms. +1
Absolutely! There are many picture opportunities, especially around the trains and the scenic landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a concession stand located at the picnic pavilion where you can purchase food and drinks.
The presence of a picnic pavilion suggests that bringing your own food is likely welcome, allowing you to enjoy a meal on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The locomotives themselves, the train village, and the scenic natural landscapes along the two-mile route offer excellent photo opportunities.
While specific rules aren't detailed, the general atmosphere encourages exploration and photography. Visitors have shared many photos of the trains. +1
The double-header steam engine formations are particularly striking for photos. Also, the unique antique cars that sometimes visit offer interesting photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The friendly staff often engage with children, making the experience even more memorable. Consider visiting during their special events, like the popular pumpkin trains in October, for an added layer of fun.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts & Railfans
The collection includes historical engines, and the crew is knowledgeable about their mechanics and operation, often happy to share details. Beyond the ride, explore the display of locomotives and learn about ongoing restoration projects.
couples
After your ride, you can stroll through the grounds, grab a bite at the concession stand, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the area. It's a low-key yet memorable experience that offers a break from the usual Wisconsin Dells attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Miniature Steam Trains
The railway also features diesel-electric locomotives, providing variety for enthusiasts. For many, the highlight is the working steam engine, a rare sight that evokes a sense of nostalgia and wonder. The crew's dedication to preserving and operating these historical pieces is evident, and they are often happy to share their knowledge.
This focus on authentic, operational locomotives sets the Riverside and Great Northern Railway apart, making it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the golden age of rail travel. The experience of riding behind a real steam engine, even a miniature one, is unforgettable.
A Family-Friendly Wisconsin Dells Gem
The two-mile train ride is a central attraction, providing a peaceful and scenic journey through the woods. It's an ideal way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without strenuous activity, making it accessible for toddlers and seniors alike.
Beyond the ride, the railway offers additional activities like board games for children and numerous photo opportunities, ensuring that the fun extends beyond the train itself.
Beyond the Ride: The Railway's Preservation Efforts
This dedication extends to special events, such as the popular pumpkin trains held in October, which add a festive seasonal element to the railway experience.
For railfans, the opportunity to see working steam engines and learn about their mechanics is invaluable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit