Missouri "Halloween" Train Rides

Published: October 16, 2025

Halloween in Missouri comes with a special kind of magic when you add the click-clack of wheels on rails. From full-size heritage trains to charming miniature railways, you’ll find fall rides that are cozy and kid-friendly, as well as after-dark excursions that lean into the spooky season.

Below are the Missouri railroads that typically offer Halloween or Halloween-adjacent train experiences each October, plus what to expect and how to plan. Always check official websites or social pages before you go—dates, themes, and offerings can change year to year.

Locations

St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern Railway

This volunteer-run heritage railroad is one of the state’s most active seasonal operators, and October is a highlight. In recent years they’ve offered:

Pumpkin Patch rides: Daytime trips ideal for families, usually with a stop at a pumpkin area where kids can choose a pumpkin. Expect onboard fall fun—costumes encouraged, light entertainment, and plenty of photo ops with decorated cars and platforms.

Ghost Train: An after-dark ride designed to be spooky without being extreme. Actors and eerie vignettes appear along the route and in the cars. Intensity can vary; the railroad typically advises parental discretion for very young children.

Murder Mystery trains: Not strictly Halloween-only, but seasonal mysteries tend to be popular in October. Passengers work to solve a themed whodunit while the train rolls through the countryside.

What to know: Rides often last 1.5 to 2 hours. Seating is usually coach-style in vintage cars. These events sell out—reserve early. Bring layers for cooler night rides, and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and park. Accessibility and restroom availability can vary by car; if you have specific needs, contact the railroad ahead of time.

Emerson Zooline Railroad during "Boo at the Zoo"

The St. Louis Zoo’s beloved narrow-gauge train often plays a role in the Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo evenings. Depending on the year, the Zooline Railroad may operate with special lighting and decor as part of the event, giving little riders a gentle, glittering spin through the park’s Halloween ambiance.

What to know: Boo at the Zoo is a timed-ticket evening event with its own admission; train tickets, when offered, may be sold separately and are subject to capacity. Availability of the train can vary by year and date, so confirm the details on the Zoo’s official event page before you promise the ride to your kids. Costumes, treat stations, and light displays make this a top pick for toddlers and elementary-age families.

Kansas City Northern Miniature Railroad

Run by dedicated volunteers in the Kansas City area, this 16-inch gauge miniature railroad operates seasonally on weekends and has added Halloween extras near the end of the season.

Halloween weekend rides: For Halloween the railroad hosts their Halloween Train for kids featuring light decorations and candy treats on the final operating weekends in October. It’s budget-friendly and great for younger families. The kids are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costume!

What to know: Rides are short, tickets are very affordable, and lines can be long on nice fall days. Because this operation is volunteer-powered, special events and hours can change quickly. Check their Facebook page or website before you head out.

Final thoughts

Missouri’s railroads deliver a wide spectrum of Halloween experiences, from pumpkin-patch rambles in the sunshine to lantern-lit night rides with just enough shiver to feel seasonal.

If your crew wants full-on scares, look to the Ghost Train-style offerings at heritage lines like the St. Louis Iron Mountain & Southern. If you’ve got littles in tow, miniature railways and zoo rides provide a gentle introduction to October magic.

And if you’re already planning a fall getaway to Branson, an evening lap on Silver Dollar City’s steam train during Pumpkin Nights turns a normal ride into a seasonal standout.

Because these events are operated by smaller, often volunteer organizations, the best experiences come with a bit of planning: secure tickets early, verify the year’s specific theme and schedule, and dress for cool weather. Do that, and you’ll have a Halloween memory powered by steam, diesel, and the timeless thrill of riding the rails.