All Aboard the Shamrock Express: A Festive Family Day Out in St. Paul!
If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to celebrate St. Patrick’s weekend, the Shamrock Express at the Minnesota Transportation Museum in St. Paul is a family-friendly event worth adding to your calendar. We went last year and had such a great time that it’s already on our list to do again.
This event takes place Saturday, March 14th from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
The highlight of the day is, of course, the train rides! There’s something magical about climbing aboard a vintage train and rolling down the tracks while surrounded by festive green decorations and cheerful crowds. It feels a bit like stepping back in time, and kids (and adults!) absolutely love the experience.
While my kids are teenagers, there were lots of younger kids there who seemed to absolutely love it. The event had a really family-friendly vibe with crafts, food, and plenty to explore around the museum grounds. It’s the kind of event where families can wander, take their time, and just enjoy the atmosphere.
For the adults, there’s also a beer tent, which adds to the relaxed, festive feel of the day.
One tip from our visit last year: arrive early if you can. Parking can fill up quickly, and getting there ahead of the crowds makes the day a lot smoother. Plus, you’ll have more time to explore everything before hopping on the train.
Overall, the Shamrock Express is a fun way to celebrate the time around St. Patrick’s Day and try something a little different. Whether you have younger kids who love trains or older kids like mine who still enjoy a unique outing, it’s a great way to spend part of your Saturday.
All aboard!
When:
Saturday, March 14, 2026
10:00am – 4:00pm
Location:
Minnesota Transportation Museum
193 Pennsylvania Ave E
St Paul, MN 55130
Cost:
- $26.75 for adults 16+
- $21.40 for students ages 6-15
- $11 for kids ages 3-5
- $64.20 for a family of 4 bundle
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