Nothing seems to capture the imagination like trains do. Something about the big, old engines seems to captivate children and adults alike. We're so lucky here in Wisconsin to be home to not only the National Railroad Museum but also a couple of amazing train lines that offer a chance to see our beautiful state like never before.

If you're a train lover, this trip will take you to some (but not all) of the amazing trains and train-themed spots in Wisconsin. Plan to do some or all of this amazing route and get to see much of our great state at the same time.

You can find an editable version of this map and itinerary here.

Please note, Riverside and Great Northern Railroad is temporarily closed.

No matter where you are in the state there's something train-themed nearby - this is just one option for fitting much of what you can see and do in one trip.

1. PC Junction - Bailey's Harbor

This is the ultimate train-themed restaurant. Every detail here has been thought of, from outside decor and play areas to the interior where your food is delivered via model train. Located at 7898 Co Rd A, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202.

2. National Railroad Museum - Green Bay

More railroad history than you could ever imagine. A country's worth of railroad history right at our fingertips here in Wisconsin. Admission that includes a 25 minute train ride through the museums stock is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9.50 for children ages 2-12. Trains run from May to October. The also have a Polar Express in the winter. Located at 2285 S Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54304.

3. Choo Choo Charlies - Kenosha

Housed in an old Metra station, this kid-centric train restaurant constantly has train-themed movies playing, has four different trains running and looking out the windows, especially in summer, you're likely to see trains and the trolley. Located at 5414 13th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140.

4. East Troy Railroad Museum - East Troy

Though probably best enjoyed in warmer months, these folks do have a holiday-themed train. This is the last remaining stretch of track left from the Wisconsin interurban network. Passenger excursions run on a 7-mile stretch of track from East Troy to Mukwonago. They also have a Pizza Train, a Dinner Train and multiple themed events throughout the year. A daily ticket gives you unlimited rides all day and will cost you $12.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors and $8.00 for children ages 3 to 14. Located at 2002 Church St, East Troy, WI 53120.

5. Mid Continent Railway Museum - North Freedom

Take a ride on restored century-old steel coaches through some gorgeous parts of the state. They have a bunch of theme rides including a Snow Train, a fall foliage train, a pumpkin train and a stars and stripes train. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and $10 for children ages 3-12. Open weekends in May, September and October and open every day from June through Labor Day Weekend. Located at E8948, Museum Rd, North Freedom, WI 53951.

6. Riverside and Great Northern Railroad - Wisconsin Dells

Another warmer weather option, this is a miniature train ride that lets you get out and explore some of the beauty around the Dells. It's a 5-inch gauge light railroad and the trip lasts about 40 minutes. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children and free for kids 3 and under. Located at N115 County Rd N, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965.

7. Caboose Cabins - Sparta

This awesome and unique overnight option near all the bike trails and outdoor fun in Sparta is a must-stay for any train enthusiast. The renovated caboose has tons of original details inside while providing all the comforts of home. Located at 1102 S. Water St., Sparta, WI 54656.

8. Osceola and St. Croix Railway - Osceola

Located right along the Mississippi River, the views from these trains are absolutely stunning. There are 50 minute and 90 minute train ride options as well as brunch, pizza, dinner and a few seasonal specialty rides. Excursions run on the weekends and begin for the season in May. The St. Croix Valley Railway is located at 114 Depot Rd. Osceola, WI. 54020

9. Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad - Trego

Ever wanted to spend a night on the train? This one of a kind bed and breakfast offers a totally unique and amazing experience that you'll talk about for years to come. The company also offers an adult dinner train, family pizza rides, short sight-seeing trains and winter Santa trains. Located at N6639 Dilly Lake Rd, Trego, WI 54888.

What other train spots are your favorite in Wisconsin? Want to learn more about that overnight train B&B? Check out There’s No Other Bed And Breakfast In America Like This One In Wisconsin.