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A Minnesota Christmas Train Ride In Duluth!

Published: November 4, 2025

By: Adam Burns

The North Shore Scenic Railroad is one of the Upper Midwest’s most charming heritage railways, carrying passengers along the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior and into the storied rail history of Duluth, Minnesota. Based at the St. Louis County Depot—home of the Lake Superior Railroad Museum—the railroad runs May through October for scenic excursions and returns in November and December with beloved holiday trains that have become a family tradition for thousands. With vintage railcars, friendly crews, and views that sweep from the working harbor to pine-clad bluffs, it’s a nostalgic, uniquely North Shore way to celebrate the season.

A living link to Duluth’s railroading past, the North Shore Scenic Railroad operates on historic tracks once used to move iron ore and timber. Today, you ride in restored coaches pulled by classic diesel locomotives, departing right from downtown Duluth. Popular warm-weather trips include the 75-minute Duluth Zephyr, the longer Two Harbors Turn with time to explore the lakeside town, pizza and music trains, and fall color excursions that hug the shoreline when the maples flare red and gold. Between runs, the Lake Superior Railroad Museum—frequently named among the best in the country—invites you to get up close to locomotives and rolling stock from the region’s rich railroading era.

When the lights of winter arrive, the railroad shines even brighter. Duluth is known as the “Christmas City of the North,” and the North Shore Scenic Railroad leans into that spirit with a trio of holiday experiences that blend storytelling, Scandinavian heritage, and time-honored traditions set to the rhythm of steel wheels. If you’re planning a seasonal getaway, here’s what to know about their headliners: the Christmas City Express, the Christmas Tree Train, and the Julebyen Express Train.

Christmas City Express
The Christmas City Express is the railroad’s signature holiday evening, and it’s much more than a train ride. Your night begins inside the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, transformed with twinkling lights, festive music, and a warm welcome complete with cookies and hot cocoa. Guests gather for a live storytelling performance based on a local tale of holiday travel and kindness—simple, heartfelt, and perfectly suited to the museum setting surrounded by vintage locomotives.

Then you step onto the platform and board the train. The ride is cozy and unhurried, typically around a half-hour, and glides along the Duluth waterfront with glimpses of the harbor and, on many nights, the spectacular Bentleyville Tour of Lights across the bay. Santa often makes an appearance, visiting the cars to greet families and pose for photos. Because the evening includes time in the museum, kids and railfans can explore exhibits before or after the ride, making the whole experience feel like a private holiday party inside a world-class rail collection.

It’s approachable for all ages, and the timing is ideal for little ones—long enough to feel special but not so long that bedtime becomes a battle. If you’re looking for a quintessential Duluth holiday moment that weaves together the city’s history, its lakefront beauty, and a family-friendly dose of magic, this is it.

Christmas Tree Train
Few traditions feel as classic as taking a train to get your Christmas tree, and the North Shore Scenic Railroad makes it practical and fun. The Christmas Tree Train runs by daylight on select late-November and early-December dates. You’ll board in Duluth and ride north along the shore to a lineside market where fresh, locally grown trees await.

Here’s how it works in broad strokes: passengers disembark to browse a selection of premium, farm-fresh trees—often balsam and Fraser firs—in a festive outdoor setting with fires, carols, and photo ops. When you’ve found “the one,” staff tag it and load it onto a dedicated flatcar or baggage car for the return trip. You ride back warm inside the coach while your tree rides outside, and railroad crew help you offload it to your car at the Depot. Some departures offer ticket options that bundle the cost of a tree with your fare; others let you select and purchase on site. The result is a day that’s both nostalgic and efficient: no needles in the back seat, no battling for parking at a crowded lot—just a scenic excursion and a fresh, fragrant centerpiece for your home.

Because these trips are outdoorsy and hands-on, dress warmly and wear boots; snow and ice are part of the season’s charm. Bring gloves for handling the tree, and a tarp or blanket to protect your vehicle when you get home. If you love traditions with a practical payoff, the Christmas Tree Train is hard to beat.

Julebyen Express Train
Knife River, a small town just up the shore, hosts Julebyen, a Norwegian-inspired Christmas village that channels the North Shore’s Scandinavian roots. The Julebyen Express Train provides an easy, car-free way to reach the festival while turning travel into part of the fun.

Departing from Duluth, the train rolls north to a stop within walking distance of the festivities. Julebyen features an outdoor market of artisans and food vendors, Scandinavian treats, music, kids’ activities, and cultural touches like a St. Lucia procession and playful troll lore. The festival’s parking is limited by design; arriving by rail avoids the squeeze and sets the tone for a day steeped in old-world charm. After a few hours of browsing, eating, and soaking up the atmosphere, you reboard for a relaxed return trip with your finds tucked beside you.

For families and visitors who want a full North Shore holiday day trip—train ride, small-town festival, and Lake Superior vistas—the Julebyen Express is a standout.

Planning tips for holiday success
- Book early. Holiday trains regularly sell out, especially weekend and evening departures. Watch for the release of the seasonal calendar and grab your preferred times.
- Arrive early. Plan to be at the Depot at least 30 minutes before departure to pick up or scan tickets, visit restrooms, and enjoy the museum if included with your event.
- Dress for the North Shore. Even on heated trains, platforms and outdoor markets can be cold and breezy. Layers, hats, and warm footwear make a big difference.
- Consider seating classes. Some departures offer upgraded seating or lounge options with extra comfort and views. If traveling with young children, standard coaches are perfect; if you’re making it a date night, check for first-class availability.
- Build in time for the museum. The Lake Superior Railroad Museum is a highlight on its own. When your ticket includes museum access, arrive early to explore.
- Check the details. Amenities, durations, and inclusions can vary by date and year. For the latest schedules, pricing, and policies, consult the official site at duluthtrains.com.
- Accessibility and strollers. The staff does an excellent job assisting guests; if you have mobility needs or plan to bring a stroller, call ahead so they can guide you to the best car and boarding door.

Why the North Shore Scenic Railroad at the holidays feels different
Many towns run holiday trains. What sets Duluth’s apart is a sense of place that you can see out the window and feel in the events themselves. The Christmas City Express folds a real rail museum into a story night that’s intimate and local. The Christmas Tree Train connects you with North Shore forests in a tangible way you’ll smell every time you pass your tree at home. And the Julebyen Express ties your outing to the area’s Norwegian heritage and small-town winter spirit. Each experience is thoughtfully designed, practical to enjoy, and rooted in the community the railroad serves.

Whether you’re a lifelong Duluthian introducing a new generation to your favorite holiday outing or a visitor planning a winter weekend on the big lake, the North Shore Scenic Railroad delivers a classic, heartfelt celebration on rails. From the first step onto the platform to the final whistle echoing across the harbor, it’s a tradition that brings people together—just as trains always have.