Here in Minnesota, there are more than a few excellent train rides that will delight anyone who loves unique outings. One of the best is a beautiful ride along our impressive North Shore. The North Shore Scenic Railroad’s Two Harbors Turn is a 30-mile train ride that is the most relaxing way to see jaw-dropping scenery, hands down. Take a look and tell us this train ride in Minnesota isn’t just a dream come true:

North Shore Scenic Railroad is a popular attraction on Minnesota’s North Shore.

North Shore Scenic Railroad/TripAdvisor

The train leaves from the depot on Duluth, embarking on a 30-mile journey north to Two Harbors.

North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

Along the way, travelers enjoy beautiful views of the North Shore. Lake Superior’s choppy waters are on display from the windows of the historic train.

North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

On the western side of the train, there are views of smaller rivers along the North Shore.

Cora R/TripAdvisor

The North Shore’s wooded surroundings are also beautiful. It’s beautiful in spring and summer, but fall is particularly awe-inspiring along this railway.

North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

The ride includes a two-hour layover in Two Harbors, where you can browse or dine to your heart’s content.

John/Flickr

This easily-walkable town is full of charming shops and restaurants. You’re sure to find something amazing.

S.W. Clyde/Wikimedia

It’s also home to a beautiful historic lighthouse.

Gfiniti/TripAdvisor

Needless to say, there’s a lot to do in Two Harbors! It’s a great stop for a wonderful journey.

Josh Haroldson/Flickr

The trips start at 10 a.m. on weekends in Duluth and return around 4 or 5 p.m. Though it is long, this trip is popular. The tickets sell out fast - especially in fall - so be sure to book your trip well in advance!

North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

Have you ever ridden the North Shore Scenic Road? For more information about the railway or the Two Harbors Turn, check out their website. You can also book your tickets in advance there as well. Have you ever taken a delightful train ride in Minnesota? Tell us about your adventures in the comments: we love hearing from you!

North Shore Scenic Railroad/TripAdvisor

North Shore Scenic Railroad/Facebook

Cora R/TripAdvisor

John/Flickr

S.W. Clyde/Wikimedia

Gfiniti/TripAdvisor

Josh Haroldson/Flickr

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Address: 506 West Michigan St., Duluth, MN 55802

The OIYS Visitor Center

Train Rides in Minnesota Near Me September 13, 2021 Tori Jane Where is the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota?  The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota extends for 28 miles from Duluth to Two Harbors. It was established in 1990 by Donald Shank. In 1991, it was taken over by a local family by the name of the Goldfines, who operated it for five seasons! In 1996, ownership was transferred to The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, and to this day, the museum continues to operate the railroad with the same passion they always have.   What are some ideas for fun day trips in Minnesota?   There are all sorts of things you could do for a day trip (or two, or ten) in Minnesota! Some of our favorite ideas include visiting any one of our stunning state and/or national parks; Minnesota is home to 66 amazing state parks and six national parks, so there’s no shortage of places to go and things to see! You can check out any of the amazing waterfalls throughout the state or spend a day at the lake (any lake – they don’t call this the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for nothing). Alternatively, you could laze the day away at the beach, considering that Minnesota has plenty despite being landlocked. You could also visit some of our amazing Native American heritage and historical sites and learn about the folks who lived here long, long before us. As long as you’re creative and can think outside the box, you’ll find plenty of material for day trip ideas!   What kind of scenic trips in Minnesota can I take?   Minnesota is a great state for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors. We recommend literally any of the state’s amazing scenic byways, like the North Shore Scenic Byway, which extends 145 miles along the incredible shoreline of Lake Superior and treats you to incredible panoramic views of our state’s awe-inspiring beauty. There is also the option of driving the Gunflint Trail, in far northeastern Minnesota, where you’ll be able to spot wildlife like moose and rabbits as well as pick some delicious wild berries. You can cruise MN-30 around Itasca State Park, and Highway 61 near the North Shore rarely, if ever, disappoints. Check out this list of even more scenic drives in Minnesota.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Train Rides in Minnesota Near Me

September 13, 2021

Tori Jane

Where is the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota?  The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota extends for 28 miles from Duluth to Two Harbors. It was established in 1990 by Donald Shank. In 1991, it was taken over by a local family by the name of the Goldfines, who operated it for five seasons! In 1996, ownership was transferred to The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, and to this day, the museum continues to operate the railroad with the same passion they always have.   What are some ideas for fun day trips in Minnesota?   There are all sorts of things you could do for a day trip (or two, or ten) in Minnesota! Some of our favorite ideas include visiting any one of our stunning state and/or national parks; Minnesota is home to 66 amazing state parks and six national parks, so there’s no shortage of places to go and things to see! You can check out any of the amazing waterfalls throughout the state or spend a day at the lake (any lake – they don’t call this the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for nothing). Alternatively, you could laze the day away at the beach, considering that Minnesota has plenty despite being landlocked. You could also visit some of our amazing Native American heritage and historical sites and learn about the folks who lived here long, long before us. As long as you’re creative and can think outside the box, you’ll find plenty of material for day trip ideas!   What kind of scenic trips in Minnesota can I take?   Minnesota is a great state for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors. We recommend literally any of the state’s amazing scenic byways, like the North Shore Scenic Byway, which extends 145 miles along the incredible shoreline of Lake Superior and treats you to incredible panoramic views of our state’s awe-inspiring beauty. There is also the option of driving the Gunflint Trail, in far northeastern Minnesota, where you’ll be able to spot wildlife like moose and rabbits as well as pick some delicious wild berries. You can cruise MN-30 around Itasca State Park, and Highway 61 near the North Shore rarely, if ever, disappoints. Check out this list of even more scenic drives in Minnesota.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Minnesota extends for 28 miles from Duluth to Two Harbors. It was established in 1990 by Donald Shank. In 1991, it was taken over by a local family by the name of the Goldfines, who operated it for five seasons! In 1996, ownership was transferred to The Lake Superior Railroad Museum, and to this day, the museum continues to operate the railroad with the same passion they always have.  

What are some ideas for fun day trips in Minnesota?  

There are all sorts of things you could do for a day trip (or two, or ten) in Minnesota! Some of our favorite ideas include visiting any one of our stunning state and/or national parks; Minnesota is home to 66 amazing state parks and six national parks, so there’s no shortage of places to go and things to see! You can check out any of the amazing waterfalls throughout the state or spend a day at the lake (any lake – they don’t call this the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for nothing). Alternatively, you could laze the day away at the beach, considering that Minnesota has plenty despite being landlocked. You could also visit some of our amazing Native American heritage and historical sites and learn about the folks who lived here long, long before us. As long as you’re creative and can think outside the box, you’ll find plenty of material for day trip ideas!  

What kind of scenic trips in Minnesota can I take?  

Minnesota is a great state for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors. We recommend literally any of the state’s amazing scenic byways, like the North Shore Scenic Byway, which extends 145 miles along the incredible shoreline of Lake Superior and treats you to incredible panoramic views of our state’s awe-inspiring beauty. There is also the option of driving the Gunflint Trail, in far northeastern Minnesota, where you’ll be able to spot wildlife like moose and rabbits as well as pick some delicious wild berries. You can cruise MN-30 around Itasca State Park, and Highway 61 near the North Shore rarely, if ever, disappoints. Check out this list of even more scenic drives in Minnesota.