The Duluth Depot | One Epic Museum
Have you ever dreamed of being a train conductor? On our latest trip we got to be more than just that. We saw lots of trains in Duluth. Fall was starting, so we went north to see if the trees were changing yet. We tried to get an early start. It was not as early as I had hoped, but we still had time.
About 30 minutes south of Duluth, we hit a massive fog bank. It was bigger and denser than anything I had seen. It started slowly, then got so thick we could not even see the huge casino right off the highway. We were a little disappointed we could not see much when we got into Duluth because of how heavy it was. Once we got down into Duluth, visibility got a lot better.
The Duluth Depot
We had a few destinations in mind: the zoo, the depot, a train ride, and checking out Superior’s shoreline. We decided on taking a train ride. My daughter had wanted to go on one for some time. We arrived the recommended 1 hour before departure to purchase tickets. We had some time to kill before the train took off. With the fog, we did not think it was worth it to go to the shoreline, so we decided to check out the Depot.
Trains in Duluth
The Depot is just what you think it is, an old train depot that holds multiple museums in one place. On the ground floor, where you buy tickets, you enter one of the coolest exhibits. When I first asked my husband if he wanted to check out the museum, he was kind of like, a museum?
The second we went through the doors, he turned into his 10-year-old self. Who does not like trains? They had four tracks inside with trains you could climb into. These were full-length trains too, not just a couple of cars. We all got a kick out of getting in them and seeing how people and freight traveled, and still travel.
There was also a mini theater and a bunch of storefronts. They take you back in time. It was a really cool museum. They had model trains running on a track with interactive buttons so kids could control them.
After checking out the main floor, we moved upward in the museum. It did not take long before we got a little lost. It is not a normal building shape. After stumbling onto an event hall set up for someone’s upcoming nuptials, we decided to go back to the ground floor.
They told us to line up for the train about 5 minutes before boarding. You need to be there closer to 15 minutes early. The line got long. By this time my daughter was jumping up and down with excitement. They had three different cars. Each car is very different. The first one had two levels and felt the most modern.
The second one felt more like the 1970s, and the last one was the coolest. It felt like you were back in the early 1900s. Because it was the last car, you could also look out the back of the train. For a bit, I could imagine Laura Ingalls Wilder taking this style of train when her family traveled.
We took a 90-minute trip. The train did not go as fast as I expected. When you wait in your car at a crossing, trains seem to take forever, so I am not sure why it surprised me. We did not have enough time to get far outside the city.
The coolest part was when they changed direction. Instead of turning, or going in reverse the whole way, they moved the engine on a parallel track and backed it into the last car. We went from the last car to the front.
By the end of the trip, we were overdue for a nap. That cut the trip short. The nice thing was, most of the fog had lifted for the drive out of Duluth.
Lessons Learned
1. Bring a coat. It may be in the 80s in the Cities, but it is probably only 60 degrees by the lake.
2. Bring respectful snacks on the train. It is an antique, so treat it with care. They have a snack cart, but it never made it back to the third car.
For more great train adventures, check out the other Scenic Train Rides in Minnesota.
Duluth Depot & Train Ride FAQ
What is the Duluth Depot?
The Duluth Depot is a historic station that houses the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and several arts and history exhibits. It is a great indoor stop before or after your train ride. Learn more at the St. Louis County Depot.
How long is the train ride?
Most North Shore Scenic Railroad excursions are about 75 to 120 minutes. The classic Duluth Zephyr is around 75 minutes, while some seasonal rides run longer. Check current options and times when you book.
Do I need to buy train tickets in advance?
Highly recommended, especially on weekends and during fall colors. Reserve your seats on the North Shore Scenic Railroad booking page.
Where do I park for the Depot and trains?
There are paid surface lots around the Depot and nearby street parking. Arrive early during busy seasons to find a spot close to the entrance.
Is the museum good for kids?
Yes. There are full-size rail cars you can climb into, model trains, and interactive displays. Keep little ones close on stairs and platforms.
What should I wear or bring?
Layer up. It can be 10 to 20 degrees cooler by the lake. Bring respectful snacks, water, and a portable charger. A light jacket even in summer is smart.
Is the experience accessible?
Parts of the museum are accessible, though some historic rail cars have steps and narrow aisles. Ask staff for the most accessible car options when you board.
