All Aboard! Step Back in Time with These Epic Train Adventures
Museum Address: 193 Pennsylvania Ave E, St Paul, MN 55130
Depot Address: 114 Depot Road, Osceola, WI 54020
About the Minnesota Transportation Museum and the Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway with Kids
Have a train lover or two in the family? The Minnesota Transportation Museum (MTM) and the Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway are two of the best train-themed adventures in Minnesota. Perfect for kids of all ages, these attractions combine history, hands-on fun, and unforgettable train experiences. The museum is located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. And, the family-friendly train ride tours (managed by the museum) depart from Osceola, Wisconsin.
Whether you’re learning about the life of porters and walking through classic train cars in Saint Paul or riding the rails along the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, these experiences offer something magical for families with kids. Undoubtedly, they are bucket list experiences for many Minnesota families! Pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a train-filled experience your kids won’t forget. Please keep reading to learn more about the museum and the train experiences offered by MTM.
Jackson Street Roundhouse at the Minnesota Transportation Museum
All Aboard for family fun in Saint Paul at the Jackson Street Roundhouse. Tucked just north of downtown, this museum is a treasure for families with young kids. It’s packed with over 50 real train cars, including dining and sleeping cars you can walk through! Step back in time as you explore rail history up close.
Inside, kids can also play with interactive exhibits, watch model trains race along the tracks, and build their own routes at train tables. Don’t miss the working roundhouse turntable—one of the last still in operation! On Saturdays, admission includes a short train ride in a real, 100+ year-old passenger car. It’s the perfect “first train ride” for toddlers and preschoolers.
Have a little conductor in the making? Visit on Wednesday mornings for Tot Time. It is specifically designed for young children. With plenty of room to roam, play, and explore, the Jackson Street Roundhouse is one of the best museums in Saint Paul for little ones.
The Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway
Ready for more? Book a 50- to 90-minute train tour to delight your family! The Minnesota Transportation Museum operates the Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway in Osceola, Wisconsin. These scenic train excursions with fun themes are a favorite for Minnesota families—and for good reason.
Choose from themed rides, such as the Dresser Ice Cream Express. The Ice Cream Express is a short, sweet trip through rolling farmland and creek crossings, with a stop at a beautifully restored 1887 depot. Kids will love the ice cream—and the chance to stretch their legs during the stop in Dresser.
Want something more filling? The Pizza Train to Marine delivers! It’s a 90-minute round-trip ride through the picturesque St. Croix River Valley. The ride is complete with pizza, brownies, and soda served right to your seat. The vintage coach cars and friendly staff make the whole ride feel like a step back in time.
Additional train excursions include the Osceola Marine Excursion, a Wine & Beer Train, a Fall Colors Train, and more! Trains run from early May through mid-September, with special events on select weekends—including Labor Day. Be sure to arrive about 30 minutes before departure so you have time to check in and get settled.
Related Article: Your Ultimate Guide to Train Experiences in Minnesota
Museum & Train Ride Highlights
- MTM’s Jackson Street Roundhouse is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Saint Paul. On Saturdays, visitors can experience a short train ride during the day (10 minutes).
- MTM’s Jackson Street Roundhouse is ideal for children aged 2 -10.
- Dedicated Tot Time at the Jackson Street Roundhouse on Wednesday mornings.
- Fun and engaging events are hosted throughout the year, including most holidays.
- All aboard! There are several themed train rides from May to September. Each one departs from Osceola, Wisconsin. Train excursions are ideal for all ages!
- Memberships are available.
Know Before You Go
- Website
- Museum Hours: Wednesdays & Saturdays from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Parking is available on-site (free of charge).
- Upcoming Events
- Accessibility Resources, or call 651-228-0263.
- Birthday Parties
Header Image Courtesy of Visit St Paul
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
