Step aboard our beautifully restored historic train for a one-of-a-kind rail journey through Minnesota’s picturesque countryside.
Travel back in time with the Friends of the 261 as we follow the legendary route of the Olympian Hiawatha, which once connected Chicago to the Pacific Northwest via the Twin Cities. Sit back and relax as the scenic lakes and rolling hills of the Twin Cities’ western suburbs unfold before you. Today, this storied route is operated by the Twin Cities & Western Railroad, proud host of our special train.
The Harvest BBQ Express offers a round-trip journey through vibrant fall landscapes and charming towns including Chanhassen, Norwood, and Glencoe. Watch the scenery change with the seasons as we glide past wide-open vistas, sparkling lakes, and golden fields.
Historic locomotives Milwaukee Road No. 261, a majestic steam engine, and Milwaukee Road 32A, a classic diesel, will power your train*. Feel the rhythm of the rails, listen for the echoing horn, and watch the steam drift past your window as you relive the golden age of rail travel. It’s an experience like no other!
Saturdays departure will be at 9:00 am with boarding starting at 8:30 am
Sundays departure will be at 10:00 am with boarding starting at 9:30 am.
Both days are round trip excursions.
The train will include Premium Class, Dome Class, Presidential Class, First Class and Coach seating. Premium Class features seating in glass-backed observation car Cedar Rapids at the rear of the train. Dome Class includes Super Dome #53, a full-length dome car, where you will enjoy the splendor of 360° views in climate controlled comfort! Premium class includes a fine selection of complimentary beverages, snacks, barbeque lunch and deluxe reserved seating, while First Class includes a complimentary barbeque lunch, snacks and beverages in one of our deluxe lounge cars.
Passenger Classes available for purchase
Coach Class Tickets:
Saturday
$99.00 – Adult
$79.00 – Child
Sunday
$89.00 – Adult
$69.00 – Child
BBQ lunch – $20/person
First Class Tickets:
Wisconsin Valley – St Croix Valley
Oliver Hazard Perry
Saturday – $249.00
Sunday – $199.00
Vice Presidential Class Tickets:
Caritas
(up to 16 passengers)
Saturday – $4500.00
Sunday – $3900.00
Dome Class Tickets:
Super Dome
Saturday – $349.00
Sunday – $309.00
Premium Class Tickets:
Cedar Rapids
Saturday – $449.00
Sunday – $399.00
Detailed class descriptions here
Coach BBQ lunches must be purchased in advance. All tickets are round trip (Children 3 yrs to 14 yrs require ticket, children 2 yrs & under free if not occupying a seat)
Boarding Location
This year the Harvest BBQ Express will be departing from Chanhassen, Minnesota. Parking will be available in the park and ride lot located at 500 Market Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317
Sponsors of this years Harvest BBQ Express
