The Hoosier Valley Railroad Pumpkin Train takes passengers on a 45-minute, 10-mile round-trip ride through the countryside from North Judson to English Lake. Along the route, the train crosses the Kankakee River before returning to North Judson.
After the train ride, passengers are dropped off at the pumpkin patch on the museum grounds. All ticket holders can explore the patch and choose a pumpkin to take home.
Families can choose from open-air, coach or first-class seating. Coach cars are enclosed with padded seats, while open-air cars have bench-style seating and are exposed to the weather. First-class options include enclosed business cars with upgraded seating, and some tickets include light refreshments. Trains operate rain or shine.
2026 Schedule & Departures
Pumpkin Trains run on select Saturdays in October. All departure times are listed in Central Time (Chicago time).
- Dates: October 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2026
- Departure Times (Each Day): 11:30 a.m., 1:30, 3:30 and 5:30 p.m.
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
Tickets & Reservations
Ticket prices vary by seating type.
- Coach or Open-Air — Adults ages 16+: $20
- Coach or Open-Air — Children ages 3-15: $15
- Coach or Open-Air — Ages 0-2: Free
- Monon Business Car Lynne Lounge Seating: $25 for all ages
- Monon Business Car Lynne Private Room: $80 per room, with seating for up to three people
- Norfolk and Western 300 First Class: $35 with open seating and light refreshments
Passengers select their seating type when purchasing tickets. Open-air passengers should dress for the weather since these cars are exposed to the elements.
Before You Ride
- Passengers should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Late boarding is not permitted.
- All trains operate on Central Time.
- There are no working restrooms on the train.
- Smoking, alcohol and pets are not permitted on the train.
- Trains run rain or shine.
- Departure and return times are approximate, and delays may occur.
Looking for more train adventures? Find more fun train rides and events around Indiana in our complete guide.
