A Culinary Rail Adventure
Prepare for an unforgettable journey where the aroma of freshly baked pizza mingles with the charm of a bygone era. Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad offers
a special experience aboard its historic passenger rail cars, allowing guests to savor delicious pizza while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Great Northwoods. This unique offering transforms a simple train ride into a memorable culinary excursion. Imagine settling into a comfortable seat, the gentle rhythm of the tracks beneath you, as a piping hot pizza is served right to your table. It's a delightful departure from the ordinary, perfect for families and anyone seeking a novel way to explore the region's natural beauty. The entire experience is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable, from the moment you board until your return.
Routes and Schedules
The "Pizza Train" operates on a captivating 12-mile route connecting the quaint towns of Spooner and Hayward. This journey is a consistent weekend highlight, running every Saturday at 11:30 a.m. throughout the year. For those looking to experience this delight during the warmer months, the service expands significantly between June 16 and August 28. During this peak summer period, four additional Pizza Trains are added to the weekly schedule, operating from Tuesday through Friday. Each trip is designed to last approximately two hours, concluding at 1:30 p.m. This allows ample time to enjoy the onboard meal and soak in the passing landscapes without feeling rushed. The railroad company, established in 1997, is known for its diverse themed train experiences.
Scenery and Surroundings
As the vintage train glides through Wisconsin's beautiful Great Northwoods, passengers are treated to a visual feast of the region's natural splendor. The journey between Spooner and Hayward offers glimpses of picturesque sprawling farm fields, showcasing the agricultural heart of the area. You'll also witness the serene beauty of the Namekagon River winding its way through the landscape. Dense forests flank the tracks, providing a lush green backdrop throughout much of the trip. These two towns, each with a population of under 3,000, are situated approximately two hours northeast of Minnesota's Twin Cities and an hour southeast of Duluth, Minnesota. This location makes the train ride an accessible and appealing excursion for residents and visitors alike, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Tickets and Options
The experience is accessible with tickets priced at $42 for adults and $34 for children aged two to twelve. Each passenger is entitled to their own personal pizza, with a selection of classic toppings including cheese, pepperoni, and sausage. For those with dietary needs, a gluten-free option is available for an additional $3 charge. To quench your thirst, your ticket also includes your first bottled water or a Pepsi product. While seating is open, arrangements can be made for parties to sit together at adjacent tables. For a more intimate experience, private-dining compartments are available for groups of up to six people. Additional beverages, including alcoholic options, can be purchased from the onboard bar.
Beyond the Pizza
While the Pizza Train is undoubtedly the most popular and family-friendly offering, Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad extends its unique experiences to other occasions. For adults seeking a refined outing, the "Wine Train" presents a sophisticated alternative. This adults-only journey, available from May to October, also lasts two hours. It proudly highlights Wisconsin's rich dairy heritage by serving four distinct cheeses produced within the state. Complementing the cheese selection are wines also crafted in Wisconsin. As a special keepsake, each ticket holder receives a souvenir wine tumbler. This carefully curated experience offers a taste of local flavors and craftsmanship, making it a memorable outing for adult passengers.
