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Knife River Heritage & Cultural Center

History worth preserving

Something For All Ages

Children can experience a replicated 1900s depot, an interactive diorama, museum boats and family events. The history of Knife River and its historic icons are told in a series of interpretive displays that enable self-guided tours of the center.

Two people in troll costumes with horns and fur standing in front of a building

Photo: Paul von Goertz

Visitors reading the interpretive displays on the covered viewing deck beside the fish tug

Photo: Paul von Goertz

Picnic Trains

Depending upon scheduling, the NSSR has offered a “Picnic Train” where train riders can tour the KRHCC and enjoy a picnic on Knife River’s 600’ agate beach, within easy walking distance from the KRHCC.

Crowd gathered on the depot platform beside the train tracks, with a conductor on the right

Photo: Todd Lindahl

Picnic Train riders are greeted by the depot agent and given a bit of Knife River history before heading to their beach picnic.

Toe Tapping Tuesdays

During summer months, the KRHCC hosts “Toe Tapping Tuesdays” where local musicians and bands entertain. There is no charge. Dates and times at: info@krhcc.org

Musicians and an audience seated outdoors on the depot platform, with a double bass player in the foreground

Photo: Paul von Goertz

North Shore Scenic Railroad Holiday trains:

•  “Christmas Tree Train”:

The Saturday following Thanksgiving, the NSSR holds its “Christmas Tree Train,” which is held in conjunction with the KRHCC's “Trees. Trains. Traditions.” Families select their tree and holiday greenery from a tree lot and have it placed on a flat car for return to Duluth. Holiday music and food signal the start of the holiday season! For schedules and fares go to: duluthtrains.org

•  “Julebyen Express”:

Knife River’s annual Julebyen Scandinavian celebration of Christmas brings thousands to Knife River the first full weekend in December. For added fun, the NSSR offers round trip train service from Duluth on the “Julebyen Express.” For schedules and fares go to: duluthtrains.org

•  “Troll Train to Troll Canyon”:

A must for families. Two trips take place Saturday and Sunday of Julebyen weekend to “Troll Canyon” where mischievous trolls have been reported. About a 40-minute ride. For schedules and fares go to: Julebyen.org

Riders on the “Troll Train” strain to get a glimpse of trolls! And they do!

Photo: Paul von Goertz

Riders on the “Troll Train” strain to get a glimpse of trolls! And they do!

Riders on the “Julebyen Express” are greeted by carolers. Many join in the singing!

Photo: Marilyn Magnuson

Riders on the “Julebyen Express” are greeted by carolers. Many join in the singing!

Families riding the “Christmas Tree Train” select their holiday tree from the KRHCC tree lot.

Photo: Paul von Goertz

Families riding the “Christmas Tree Train” select their holiday tree from the KRHCC tree lot.

In August of 2026, the KRHCC hosted the North Shore's first regional quilt art show. The show attracted about 400 quilt art enthusiasts.

Photo: Scott Schelrud

In August of 2026, the KRHCC hosted the North Shore's first regional quilt art show. The show attracted about 400 quilt art enthusiasts.

© 2026 Knife River Heritage & Cultural Center

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