A Train Ride Delight
Imagine savoring a freshly baked pizza while watching the beautiful Midwestern landscape unfold outside your window. This dream is a reality aboard Wisconsin's
charming pizza train. Operated by the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad, this distinctive experience offers passengers a chance to relax and enjoy a delicious meal on a historic passenger rail car. The regular Pizza Train service operates every Saturday at 11:30 a.m., taking a leisurely 12-mile journey between the quaint towns of Spooner and Hayward. During the summer months, from June 16 to August 28, the train offers additional departures, running Tuesday through Friday. Each of these extended trips lasts for two hours, concluding around 1:30 p.m., providing ample time to soak in the experience and the scenery.
Scenic Routes & Destinations
The train embarks on its charming route between Spooner and Hayward, two small communities, each with a population of just under 3,000 residents. These towns are celebrated hubs for outdoor activities, attracting visitors for fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling throughout the year. The region itself is easily accessible, located approximately two hours northeast of Minneapolis and St. Paul in Minnesota, and about an hour southeast of Duluth. As the vintage rail car glides along, passengers are treated to captivating views of expansive farm fields stretching towards the horizon, the serene Namekagon River winding through the landscape, and the dense, verdant forests characteristic of the Great Northwoods. This picturesque backdrop enhances the entire dining and travel experience.
Tickets and Dining Options
Securing your spot on this unique culinary adventure requires an investment in an unforgettable experience. Tickets are priced at $42 for adults and $34 for children aged two to twelve. Each passenger is treated to their own individual pizza, with a selection of classic toppings available, including cheese, pepperoni, and sausage. For those with dietary preferences, a gluten-free pizza option is also provided for an additional $3 charge. To quench your thirst, the ticket includes your first bottled water or soda. While seating is open, parties can arrange to sit together at adjacent tables to share the experience. For a more intimate setting, private-dining compartments can be booked for groups of up to six people. An on-board bar also offers a variety of additional beverages, including alcoholic options, to complement your meal.
Beyond the Pizza
Established in 1997, the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad has cultivated a reputation for offering a diverse array of themed train excursions. While the Pizza Train is undoubtedly its most popular and family-friendly offering, the railroad also hosts other engaging events. One notable adult-exclusive experience is the 'Wisconsin Wine Train,' priced at $75 per person. Similar to the Pizza Train, this is also a two-hour journey that deeply celebrates Wisconsin's rich dairy heritage by featuring four distinct cheeses produced within the state. Adding to the local flavor, the wines served are also sourced from Wisconsin vineyards. As a special keepsake, each ticket includes a souvenir wine tumbler, making for a delightful take-home memento. This sophisticated wine-themed outing is available only from May through October.
