Chicago Joins St. Louis, Durango, and Grapevine to Portland, Flint, and Blue Ridge – Don’t Miss These Festive Experiences Across US!

Published on December 17, 2025

The holiday season brings festive cheer, and one of the most magical ways to experience it is aboard a Christmas special train. From themed excursions to holiday light displays, these seasonal rides provide a perfect escape into the winter wonderland. For 2025, many cities in the United States will feature holiday train rides, offering everything from visits with Santa to spectacular displays of holiday lights. Here’s a look at some of the top Christmas special trains to catch in U.S. cities during 2025.

CPKC Holiday Train (Canada & USA Tour)

The CPKC Holiday Train is a beloved tradition that travels across Canada and the United States, bringing holiday cheerand supporting local communities. Starting in late November and running through mid-December, this colorfully lit trainfeatures live music performances and makes stops at various cities to raise food donations for local food banks. Locations across the U.S. include stops in cities like Hermon, Greenville, Jackman, and Franklin Park. This year’s route promises to be as festive as ever, offering an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family.

Polar Express Experiences

Based on the popular holiday story, The Polar Express themed rides are a staple in many cities. These magical train rides transport passengers to a world of Christmas wonder, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa Claus.

1. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (Bryson City, NC): One of the most famous Polar Express rides in the country, this experience allows families to board a train that takes them to the North Pole. Visitors are treated to live entertainment, holiday-themed refreshments, and a special visit from Santa and his helpers.
2. Grand Canyon Railway (Williams, AZ): The Polar Express train at Grand Canyon Railway offers an immersive experience where guests can enjoy a ride through the snowy landscape while being serenaded by carolers. Hot chocolate and cookies are served, and Santa makes a special appearance to share in the holiday magic.
3. St. Louis Union Station (St. Louis, MO): Known for its festive atmosphere, St. Louis Union Station hosts its own Polar Express ride, complete with storytelling, caroling, and even a meet-and-greet with Santa. This experience is perfect for families seeking a classic Christmas adventure.
4. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango, CO): Another Polar Express experience, this one offers a magical train journey through the snow-covered mountains. Passengers are treated to holiday treats, storytelling, and live music, making it a perfect holiday tradition.

Other Holiday Train Rides

5. Santa’s North Pole Express (Grapevine, TX): In Grapevine, Texas, the North Pole Express takes passengers on a journey to the North Pole, where Santa and Mrs. Claus greet everyone. This ride features holiday music, sing-alongs, and a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for families looking for a classic holiday experience.
6. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway (Blue Ridge, GA): The Holiday Express ride at the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a one-hour journey through the beautiful mountains of Georgia, where passengers can enjoy Christmas music, caroling, and the company of Santa Claus. This train ride is perfect for families looking for a relaxing yet festive outing.
7. Niles Canyon Railway (Niles & Sunol, CA): If you’re looking for a stunning display of holiday lights, the Train of Lights at Niles Canyon Railway in California is a must-see. The train takes passengers through the canyon, with brightly lit displays and a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for a holiday outing.
8. Metrolink Holiday Express (Southern California): The Metrolink Holiday Express offers seasonal train service along several routes in Southern California. Passengers aboard the train can enjoy festive activities, holiday music, and, of course, the company of Santa himself.
9. Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad (Flint, MI): This year, Huckleberry Christmas at Crossroads Village offers a holiday train ride through a historical village, with brightly lit displays and a chance to visit Santa’s workshop. It’s the perfect destination for families looking to experience the magic of Christmas in a quaint, charming setting.
10. Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation (Portland, OR): In Portland, Oregon, the Holiday Express at the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation provides a festive way to enjoy the season. The historic trains run through the winter months, offering holiday caroling, festive refreshments, and visits with Santa.
11. Illinois Railway Museum (Illinois): The Happy Holiday Railway at the Illinois Railway Museum offers a chance to ride on a historic train while enjoying the sights and sounds of Christmas. This ride is a great option for those who enjoy both history and the magic of the season.
12. Railroad Park Paradise & Pacific Railroad (Birmingham, AL): In Birmingham, Alabama, the Holiday Lights Ride takes passengers on a train ride through festively decorated park displays. This train ride is a unique way to see holiday lights up close, making it an ideal family outing.
13. 1880 Train (Hill City, SD): The Holiday Express at the 1880 Train in South Dakota offers a ride through the Black Hills during the winter months. Passengers can enjoy seasonal treats, sing along with carolers, and experience the magic of a vintage train ride.
14. The Polar Express – California Railroads: In various parts of California, passengers can enjoy The Polar Express experience on historic trains, with holiday-themed rides complete with cookies, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa.

Holiday Light Trains

15. Chicago Transit Authority Holiday Train (Chicago, IL): The CTA Holiday Train is a beloved Chicago tradition. Running on select days in December, this holiday train is decorated with festive lights, and it travels on various CTA rail lines. It’s a fun way to see the city’s holiday displays while enjoying a unique Christmas experience.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a classic Polar Express ride, a holiday lights tour, or a festive train journey through picturesque landscapes, there’s a Christmas special train for everyone in 2025. These rides offer an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season, with Santa, holiday music, and the magic of train travel. Make this Christmas extra special by booking a ride on one of these unique trains in cities across the United States.