At a Glance
- TypeHeritage railroad & tourist attraction
- LocationIA
- Rating4.9 ★14 Google reviews
About Midwest Electric Railway
Riding the Midwest Electric Railway glides through the heart of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, on a 2.5‑mile electric trolley loop that circles the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion campground between Locust and South Walnut Streets, crossing E. Thresher Road twice. Historic trolleys pause at the Depot, Barn, Log Village, Midway, South 40 and Campers’ Gate, offering views of 19th‑century prairie life while volunteers maintain the tracks and cars year‑round.
Upcoming Events
No ticketed events are currently listed for Midwest Electric Railway. Many heritage operators publish schedules seasonally or run on regular open hours instead of dated events.
Check the operator’s website for current hours and special runs, or subscribe to event alerts and we’ll email you when something is scheduled.
Plan Your Visit
- AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible entrance · accessible parking
Find the Depot
The Trains
The Midwest Electric Railway operates a fleet of ten historic electric trolleys along a 2.5‑mile (4.0 km) loop that circles the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion campground, crossing E. Thresher Road twice and running between Locust and S. Walnut Streets. Current trolley stops on the loop include the Trolley Depot, the Trolley Barn, the Log Village, Midway, South 40, and Campers’ Gate. The line uses standard‑gauge track and the trolleys are the primary rolling stock, with no additional locomotive types noted in the available information.
History
See full history
The Midwest Electric Railway was founded in 1971 as a not‑for‑profit educational organization dedicated to preserving historic electric passenger trolleys. From its inception, volunteers constructed the trolley tracks that encircle the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion campground, and those volunteers continue to maintain the line today. The organization’s mission has remained consistent, focusing on the preservation of both Iowa‑based and out‑of‑state electric rolling stock while providing trolley service for reunion attendees.
Around the Depot
The Midwest Electric Railway is a hands-on Iowa stop; leave time for a ride on the cars.
Getting There & Staying Nearby
Optional trip extras from our travel partners.
Rent a Car
Most heritage railroads sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.
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Tours & Activities Nearby
Tours
Guided tours, day trips, and things to do around the area, bookable in advance through Viator.
Browse nearby tours →Bookings made through this link support usatrainrides at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Midwest Electric Railway located?
Midwest Electric Railway is located in IA.
How do I get tickets to Midwest Electric Railway?
Tickets and current schedules are available on the operator's official website at https://www.oldthreshers.com/.