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Wisconsin Beer & Ale Tasting Train Rides

Published: June 9, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Wisconsin, the Badger State, is known for its beautiful landscapes, hearty cheese, and a rich history deeply intertwined with the art of brewing beer.

While the state boasts of scenic beauty and numerous breweries, there’s an experience that combines both in a unique way — beer tasting trains.

There’s something quite magical about sipping a finely crafted beer while rolling through the picturesque countryside, and Wisconsin offers just the perfect setting for this adventure.

The Heritage of Railroads and Breweries in Wisconsin

Before diving into the "ales on rails" experiences, it's essential to understand why Wisconsin is such a fitting backdrop for this activity. The state has a rich rail heritage, with a network that dates back to the mid-19th century.

Similarly, the state's brewery legacy is equally storied, with a long tradition of beer making brought over by German immigrants in the 19th century. This melding of railroad and brewing traditions makes for a unique pairing that enriches the experience of a train ride dedicated to beer tasting.

The Experience

Imagine boarding a vintage passenger car from the mid to early 20th century, its interiors reminiscent of a bygone era. The sound of the engine, the gentle sway, and the rhythmic clatter of the tracks set the scene as you delve into the world of Wisconsin's craft beers. These train rides not only cater to beer enthusiasts but also offer a cultural and historical narrative that enhances the tasting experience.

Notable Locations in Wisconsin

Mid Continent Railway Museum

The Mid-Continent Railway Museum offers a somewhat unique twist on the idea of craft beer excursions, the "Root Beer Float Flyer." This family-friendly train ride allows families to enjoy ice cold root beers while enjoying a one-hour excursion.

National Railroad Museum

The National Railroad Museum, situated in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of railroads. Established in 1956, the museum features an extensive collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts.

Visitors can explore exhibits such as the Dwight D. Eisenhower locomotive and the Union Pacific "Big Boy" #4017, one of the largest steam engines ever built.

The museum also offers educational programs, train rides, and special events throughout the year. With its commitment to sharing the story of rail transport in America, it serves as an engaging destination for history buffs and families alike.

Their "Rails & Ales Brewfest" is held in late February featuring several different breweries and wineries, live entertainment and food, and a souvenir-tasting glass with each ticket purchased.

Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway

The Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway is a popular heritage railway operated by the Minnesota Transportation Museum. Located in Wisconsin, this scenic excursion train offers a glimpse into the region's rich railroad history.

Passengers can embark on a nostalgic journey through the picturesque landscapes of the St. Croix River Valley, featuring restored vintage train cars from the early to mid-20th century.

The railway runs a variety of special events and themed rides throughout the year, providing opportunities for both locals and tourists to enjoy educational and entertaining experiences while appreciating the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.

One of their popular events are the "Wine & Beer Trains" held throughout the summer and early fall featuring local creations from both Minnesota and Wisconsin.  These trips last about 1 1/2 hours.

The Craft Beer Scene in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is overflowing with craft breweries, each contributing their own unique flavors to the state's beer culture. From Milwaukee, known as the "Brew City," to smaller towns like New Glarus, which is famed for its Spotted Cow, the state’s brewery scene is as diverse as it is rich. Beer tasting train rides offer a curated glimpse into this diversity, showcasing everything from traditional lagers to experimental, hop-forward IPAs or smooth, creamy stouts.

Pairing the Perfect Beer with the Perfect View

One of the many highlights of a beer tasting trains is the ability to pair the sensory experience of tasting beer with the visual delights of Wisconsin’s scenery.

The changing hues of the landscape, whether it’s the vibrant colors of fall foliage or the lush greens of summer fields, complement the flavors and aromas of the beers being sampled.

Train rides might pass through historic small towns, cross charming bridges over glistening rivers, or meander through lush forests, each sight providing a backdrop that enriches the tasting experience.

Bringing Locals and Visitors Together

These train rides not only appeal to tourists but also to locals who wish to explore their state's brewing achievements in a novel way. The shared communal feeling aboard the train, combined with the joy of discovering new favorite brews, make these rides a social affair, often resulting in new friendships and shared memories.

Wisconsin’s "ales on rails" adventures provide an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in two of the state’s proudest traditions: rail travel and craft brewing.

They offer an experience that engages all the senses, capturing the heart and soul of Wisconsin. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast eager to discover new flavors or a curious traveler looking to experience Wisconsin's vibrant culture, these train rides offer something truly special.