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Iowa's Halloween Train Rides

Published: August 27, 2025

By: Adam Burns

There’s something timeless about trains in October. The glow of lanterns in the trees, a whistle echoing across a chilly field, and the thrill of rolling into the unknown make rail journeys a perfect fit for Halloween.

In Iowa, a handful of volunteer-powered railroads and museums transform their tracks into spooky experiences for all ages. Here’s where to ride, what to expect, and how to make the most of a Halloween rail adventure in the Hawkeye State.

Locations

Midwest Central Railroad

If you’re hunting for a bona fide Halloween train ride in Iowa, start with Mount Pleasant. The Midwest Central Railroad, a narrow-gauge heritage line located on the Old Threshers grounds at McMillan Park, is home to the Ghost Train of No Return (Midwest Haunted Rails), a long-running October tradition that blends vintage railroading with haunted-attraction theatrics.

The setting is unmatched: historic depots, a piney loop of track, and period equipment set the mood as soon as you step onto the platform. Once aboard, you’ll rumble into the dark where lights, sound effects, costumed characters, and set pieces spring to life along the right-of-way.

Expect classic Halloween vibes—creepy vignettes, jump-scares, and eerie tableaux—woven around the train’s route. It’s an immersive ride, but you remain on the train the whole time, which makes it a manageable scare for many families.

A few practical notes

Location: McMillan Park, Mount Pleasant, on the Midwest Old Threshers grounds.

Atmosphere: Family-friendlier at earlier departures; intensity typically ramps up after dark. If you have young riders, aim for early evening.

Comfort: It’s outdoor seating or open-window coaches, depending on equipment and weather. Dress warmly and plan for a breeze.

Operations: Dates, times, and ticketing vary by year. This event is popular; advance tickets are wise when offered. Lines can form, but crews work hard to keep trains moving.

Accessibility and safety: Volunteers assist with boarding; follow crew instructions, keep arms inside the car, and prepare little ones for loud noises and sudden lights.

Part of the appeal is that this event supports a volunteer organization that preserves historic equipment year-round. Your ticket doesn’t just buy a scare—it helps keep Iowa’s rail history alive.

More Iowa Rail Experiences to Watch for in October

Iowa’s roster of operating heritage railroads is modest, but several organizations add seasonal touches in October. While they may not run a dedicated “haunted” train every year, they’re worth checking as you plan.

Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad

Boone & Scenic Valley is Iowa’s best-known excursion railroad, famous for its high bridge, fall color runs, and holiday trains. Its core October offering is The Pumpkin Express, a 1-hour train ride where the kids can ride out to the pumpkin patch and pick out their favorite pumpkin for carving.

Sioux City Railroad Museum

The Sioux City Railroad Museum, located in the Milwaukee Railroad Shops Historic District in Sioux City, Iowa, preserves the region’s railroading heritage. The museum interprets the former Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway’s extensive shop complex through restored buildings, artifacts, rolling stock, and hands-on exhibits.

Visitors can explore locomotives and railcars, see how shops maintained equipment, and learn how railroads shaped commerce, immigration, and daily life along the Missouri River.

Seasonal programs, guided tours, special events, and education offerings engage families, students, and enthusiasts. The site’s industrial landscape offers an immersive, authentic experience of Midwestern railroad history and technology today.

During Halloween they host "Falloween Spookfest" that includes a number of different activities for the kids and adults.  Please visit their website to learn more.

How to Pick the Right Halloween Train

Match the scare level to your group. Early evening departures are typically quieter and less intense; late-night runs dial up the fright.

Consider ride length. Young kids may do better with shorter loops (trolleys or mini-trains) versus extended excursions.

Plan for sensory needs. Some rides include loud sound effects, strobe lighting, and fog machines. Bring ear protection if needed.

Costume policy. Many events welcome costumes, but masks or bulky props can complicate boarding or visibility. Verify rules before you go.

Weather readiness. Open cars can get chilly. Layers, hats, and blankets keep the experience cozy rather than cold.

Why Halloween Trains Are Worth It

Beyond the thrills, Halloween trains offer a rare blend of community, history, and theatrics. You’re not just walking a haunted house; you’re riding living history—equipment kept operational by Iowans who spend their nights and weekends preserving it. The result is an experience that feels handcrafted and heartfelt, with memories that linger long after the last whistle fades.

If you only pick one, the Ghost Train of No Return in Mount Pleasant is Iowa’s marquee Halloween rail experience. Pair it with a trolley ride, dress warm, and make a night of it. If you’re closer to Boone or Sioux City, keep an eye on their calendars—seasonal surprises do pop up.

However you ride, October is short. Grab tickets early, support the volunteers who make these nights possible, and enjoy Iowa’s spooky season on the rails.