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December 2023 by Erick Hanson
High expectations taking the Fall Color Tour, but unfortunately was disappointed. The train is nice enough, but interior is cold, old (and not the good kind), and with little 'magic'. The train ride from a scenic standpoint left a lot to be desired. Expected to be wowed by open views, but it really isn't that special. You're better off driving up MN-95 and viewing fall colors that way. Additionally, one of the train conductors/workers was curt with my son when he asked questions - told him that he's the one that talks - bad look. Would I recommend to a friend? No. Would I do again? No. Is there better ways to see fall colors for zero money out of pocket? Yes
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October 2023 by Perry D. Nixon
Super charming and a lot of fun. Definitely worth the trip! We went in the fall and the colors were amazing.
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October 2023 by Izzy Izzy
We took the fall ride with 2 kids and unfortunately it did not meet our expectations. It was extremely hot in the train…I mean everyone was sweating bullets and complaining. They said part of the train had AC (why not all?) but it wasn’t working. I understand Minnesota isn’t usually this hot this time of year, but the train was full and the number of people alone in a small space should be enough reason to install fans at least. The seats we sat in were very cramped…I mean knees to knees. Very uncomfortable. Some seats had more space and others had tables, but just know that people come early and quickly take those seats (you choose whatever seat you like). The scenery outside was average. Lots of trees covering the view so don’t expect to be mesmerized. The drive to get there had better views and lovely fall colors though…didn’t have to pay for that! The staff was very friendly…All in all, I would not return or recommend. The heat, cramped seats, and mediocre view had me questioning my life choices. Wish we took a scenic boat ride in the area instead. Way more worth it. If you decide to try it out simply for the experience, look ahead at the weather forecast and make sure it’s at least in the lower 70’s or lower otherwise the heat will ruin the experience.
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October 2023 by Amy Workman
Second year we've done the fall colors trip and we'll keep coming back. The staff is awesome, the views are great, and even on a sold out train it doesn't feel packed.Tips: You must pick up your ticket when you get there. Everyone does, so get there early. There's a boxcar for kids to climb around on and if you're coming for anything other than the first train of the day you can watch it hook up. You might also be walking a bit from your car if you get there later.Bring snacks! They have candy and little snacks for sale, but we love bringing a bunch of stuff. There's actually a car with tables if you can snag one.Some cars have windows that open, others don't.Make sure you walk around and check out the different cars and artifacts!
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October 2023 by Lee Thorburn
An excellent experience! We did the fall colors ride and had a blast. Friendly, helpful staff. Signage could have been a little more clear but we showed up plenty early and had no troubles getting where we needed to. The parking situation is an absolute zoo, but there are very limited options so it is what it is. Definitely plan extra time if you’re showing up for one of the midday rides. Other than that, it’s a really neat experience and one that we’re glad we did!
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October 2023 by Travel Girl
I really love train rides, especially on the open cars. There's nothing like fresh air in your face and the calming sway of the train to relax you. The impressive train horn will also definitely put a smile on your face.Im very thankful for all those who put in so much work in restoring the cars so we are able to have enjoyable rides on pieces of history. Thank to all the staff for making sure everyone had a fun and safe ride. I didn't want to leave and definitely want to go back.
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October 2023 by Robyn A
We had a fantastic experience on the Fall Colors Train. This ride checked off a bucket list item for people ages toddler to 70. We wore layers as the train cars are older and that was all we needed to stay warm. The volunteers from check in time to the end of the ride were fantastic. We stayed in Osceola to eat per their recommendation and were not disappointed.
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September 2023 by Nicole N.
My boys and I love going on "adventure days" and yesterday we decided to take a train ride!I ordered tickets online and when you get to the station, they ask for your name and give you the tickets. This town is extremely cute, and totally worth coming a bit early just to walk the streets and see Cascade Falls! Everyone was SO friendly and you can tell they love what they do! Feel free to ask questions! Everyone seemed to love chatting and was very knowledgeable! This train is no frills but gives you an old fashioned experience which my boys absolutely loved!! Once the train started moving, someone walked around and punched our tickets! It felt like the polar express and my boys thought that was very cool! There is a bathroom and small snack car that you are free to visit while the train is moving. We did the fall color tour at the end of September, and the leaves in the area were just starting to change. The tour was 90 minutes and was beautiful! I highly recommend this tour! The train does not move overly fast during this tour and made it easy to take pictures or videos. Overall, I loved this experience and would highly recommend it to anyone!
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August 2023 by Daniel S.
Took the wine tasting tour and it was awesome. From start to finish, I can't think of a better way to spend the afternoon. Totally recommend!
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July 2023 by Gayle Elston
We went with our 6, 8 & 9 year old kids and we all had the best time. We started out with a fascinating tour of the mail car and learned so much. We spent time in each car but spent most of our time outside. Everyone volunteering was amazing and friendly and made it so memorable for the kids. Highly, highly recommend!
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July 2023 by Shannon C
We have taken a train ride in Duluth many years ago and we’re disappointed. This year a train ride was added to the summer bucket list so we made the 1.5 hour trip to Osceola for the 1.5 our train ride to Marine and back and it did not disappoint! I didn’t realize you could bring a whole lunch on the ride or we would have done that as well! Next time and yes, we will be going again! We loved being able to explore the different cars along the ride and finding new places to sit. Families brought card games and board games to play which was a great idea! The staff was super friendly and really made the trip fun! Can’t wait to go again!
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November 2022 by Mae Bangtan
It was a good experience. Not really much to see, all the leaves fell and there was mostly only trees and rocks as scenery. Also a little of the St Croix River but went mostly for the experience. The cars themselves were mostly old and smelled but you get to walk through the different cars and there is a vending machine on one of them. You really do have to come 30 or more minutes in advance to grab your boarding pass bc the lines could get long. To took 45 minutes then from took another 45 minutes. We did stop midway for about 15 - 20 mins to switch the engine car to the front to take us back.
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October 2022 by Kali Mae
We went out on a train ride yesterday for the first time and it was amazing!! My fiance, his mom, and I all got a little motion sick. The train we were on, the windows stayed shut, so we ended up wandering around to find fresh air. There were spots where you could stand, get fresh air, and admire the beautiful scenery. There is an old historic building along the route along with remnants of another building further down the path. We also got to see 2 hidden waterfalls in the forest. It's an absolute wonder to see what the forest hides within. So much beauty!!For the questions below: we waited for about 30 minutes before getting onto the train. The company recommended for you to be there 30 minutes early.
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October 2022 by Joe Gray
Can’t help but notice how cheerful and helpful the staff are at every opportunity! What great & engaging folks. We took the grandkids for a fall color tour and they were excited - hardest part was waiting to board! It’s a steep climb getting up the stairs - we got help from the attentive staff. Some of the car’s windows open; some don’t - so we found a place where they all could poke their heads out if they wanted to. The ride was incredible as was the scenery - the river on one side and the bluffs on the other. Crossing the Saint Croix river was cool - as the trusses seem like they could hit the cars - but they are not really that close. The kids all took advantage of the views, but also spent time walking between the different cars and checking them out as well. Highly recommend; probably better for kids 5+ - they will appreciate the trip more, but the 2 & 3 year olds are already asking to go back!
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September 2022 by Terri Huston
We enjoyed the ride, very relaxing. The restored cars have great seats, very comfy. Fall colors were muted this year, not the railways fault. Better snacks would be great. There were some rude people that should have stayed home.
