Minnesota "Father's Day" Train Rides
Published: May 26, 2026
By: Adam Burns
Father's Day is a special occasion to honor and celebrate the dads in our lives. If you're in Minnesota and looking for a unique way to spend this day with your dad, consider taking a scenic train ride. Minnesota's rich rail history and beautiful landscapes make train excursions a memorable experience for the entire family.
This guide will explore various train ride options across the state, detailing schedules, ticketing information, and what to expect on your trip. There is currently only one location hosting an event celebrating dad, the North Shore Scenic Railroad.
Former Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range SD18 #193 regularly hosts excursions along the North Shore Scenic Railroad out of Duluth, Minnesota.Why Choose a Train Ride?
Train rides offer a nostalgic and leisurely way to experience the beauty of Minnesota’s natural scenery. Unlike a road trip, rail travel allow passengers to fully relax and take in the surrounding views without the worry of navigation or traffic. Heritage railroads often feature restored historic cars, providing a glimpse into the past while enjoying modern comfort.
North Shore Scenic Railroad
The North Shore Scenic Railroad is a captivating experience located in northeastern Minnesota, primarily running between the cities of Duluth and Two Harbors. Rich in history and scenic beauty, it offers tourists and enthusiasts alike a unique journey through the picturesque landscapes along the north shore of Lake Superior.
Operated by the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, the North Shore Scenic provides passengers with a glimpse into the past, when rail travel was a primary mode of transportation. The railroad runs on part of the original Duluth, Missabe & Iron Range (DM&IR) track, a crucial line in the region's iron ore industry. Today, it remains a symbol of the area's rich industrial and cultural heritage.
The North Shore Scenic operates several different excursions, each with its charms and attractions. One of the most popular is the Duluth Zephyr, a short scenic ride that departs from the historic Duluth Union Depot and travels along the waterfront of the Great Lake. This ride offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the Duluth harbor and takes passengers past historic landmarks and natural beauty spots.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Two Harbors Excursion is a favored option. This 27-mile journey takes riders through dense forests, along rocky cliffs, and over serene rivers. The destination, Two Harbors, is a quaint town with a rich maritime history, featuring attractions like the Lake County Historical Depot Museum and the Two Harbors Lighthouse. This longer excursion provides a deeper dive into the area's cultural and natural narratives.
The railroad also hosts a series of special events throughout the year, enhancing the appeal to a broader audience. Seasonal offerings include fall color tours, charming holiday-themed rides like the Christmas City Express, and specialty trains like the Elegant Dinner Train, which provides an exquisite dining experience aboard a vintage railcar.
In addition to the enchanting rides and events, the railroad plays a vital role in preserving the history of rail transport in the Midwest. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, located in Duluth's Union Depot, manages the railroad and boasts an impressive collection of vintage locomotives and rolling stock, providing educational opportunities for all ages. The museum's exhibits often extend into the operations of the railroad itself, as many locomotives and cars used on the scenic excursions are part of the museum's collection.
Whether you're a railroad aficionado, a history buff, or someone simply seeking a picturesque day trip, the North Shore Scenic offers a unique and enriching travel experience along the iconic shores of Lake Superior.
Father's Day Special
For Father's Day the railroad hosts a BBQ dinner train with two departures from the Duluth Depot. The railroad states:
"There are two excursion options, one is 75-mins in the morning, or 2.5 hours in the afternoon. Tables are seatings of 4 in the Domecar, and assigned (you get to pick). Due to limited space, all passengers, including babies must be ticketed in this section of the train. However, kids ages 2 and under are free in the coach section of the Duluth Zephyr excursion, or Northwoods Explorer, as an alternative option.
Enjoy Ribs, chicken, beans, coleslaw, cornbread and yummy bread pudding for dessert. After dinner, enjoy music piped through the train, or wander to the bar car then come back to sit-back and enjoy the view from your seat on the SkyView domecar."
Making the Most of Father’s Day
Choosing a train ride for Father's Day is not just about the journey; it's about spending quality time together and creating lasting memories. Whether your dad is a train enthusiast, a history buff, or simply enjoys nature’s beauty, Minnesota’s train rides offer something for everyone.
Pack a camera, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a delightful journey through some of Minnesota’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the state, these train rides offer a unique perspective on Minnesota’s natural charm and heritage, ensuring a special Father’s Day filled with fond memories.
Recent Articles
-
Amtrak Timetables (May, 1972)
May 26, 26 12:32 PM
Presented here is Amtrak's complete timetable listing from the May, 1972 edition of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Georgia 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:22 PM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
New Hampshire Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:17 PM
Climb aboard Granite State Railway's Firecracker Trains—a patriotic, family-friendly fireworks spectacular rolling right through the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region. -
Utah Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:14 PM
Every July, as America celebrates its birthday, the Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah, rolls out a special tradition: the Freedom Train. -
North Carolina "Wild West" Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:12 PM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Pennsylvania 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:00 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
Maine "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:46 AM
This year for Father's Day, why not trade the conventional gifts and barbeque in for something exceptional—a scenic train ride across the beautiful state of Maine. -
Minnesota "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:43 AM
If you're in Minnesota and looking for a unique way to spend this day with your dad, consider taking a scenic train ride. -
Pennsylvania Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:58 AM
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage comes alive every Independence Day, but 2026—the nation’s semiquincentennial—offers extra patriotic flair. -
Ohio 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:40 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
New York 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:37 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Kentucky "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:34 AM
Kentucky offers a variety of historic and scenic train excursions that provide an unforgettable way to honor and spend quality time with fathers. -
Kansas "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:33 AM
In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train rides available for Father's Day in Kansas. -
Vermont Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:21 AM
On Independence Day, elements come together to offer a unique experience in Vermont: train rides that combine scenic beauty with patriotic celebrations. -
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour… -
Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers.
