Christmas Ships Trolley Excursions
Passengers take a round-trip ride aboard the trolley to watch the illuminated Christmas Ships on the Willamette River. Along the route, visitors get front-row views of decorated homes lit up for the holidays. Guests can also bring unwrapped toys to support local holiday donation drives.
What to Expect
Front-row views of lighted Christmas Ships and decorated homes from the trolley.
Event Details
Duration
The round trip takes about 1.5 hours on regular nights and about 2.5 hours on Combined Fleet night.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Willamette Shore Trolley
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday light-viewing fans and families
Vibe
Festive and scenic
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $49 for the December 8, 11, 15, and 17 departures; $59 for the December 19 Combined Fleet departure. – Get tickets
- Hours: December 8, 11, 15, and 17: 6:30 pm and 8:15 pm; December 19 Combined Fleet: 3:30 pm.
- Parking: Parking is available in lots off Foothills Road. Visitors are asked to allow time for holiday traffic and parking and check in no later than 15 minutes before departure.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed on these trips.
Tips & Advice
- Buy online as soon as tickets go on sale, because reservations are first-come, first-served and no tickets are sold by phone.
- Check in at the Lake Oswego depot at least 15 minutes before departure, because the trolleys have to leave on time to see the ships.
- Bring your ticket's QR code, printed or downloaded to your phone, so it can be validated when you board the trolley.
- Bring an unwrapped toy, which the trolley delivers to the Christmas Ship toy collection for Portland Fire & Rescue's Toy & Joy Makers.
- Choose your date and departure carefully, since tickets are non-refundable and can't be moved to a different date, time or run.
Special Events & Promotions
- Combined Fleet night on Saturday, December 19 has a single, longer departure of about 2.5 hours at a higher fare
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I see from the trolley?
You'll see the lighted Christmas Ships on the Willamette River and decorated homes along the trolley route. Viewing the ships depends on river conditions, which the Christmas Ships Coordinator controls.
Can small children ride on a lap?
No. Lapsitters aren't allowed on these trips.
Can I bring a toy to donate?
Yes. The trolley collects unwrapped toys and delivers them to the Christmas Ship toy collection point. They go to the Toy & Joy Makers, run by Portland Fire & Rescue, for local families in need.
What if I can't make my departure?
All ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets are good only for the date, time and run you picked and can't be moved to another one.
How do I get tickets?
Tickets are sold online only, with no phone sales, and reservations are first-come, first-served. Bring the QR code, printed or on your phone, so it can be validated at the trolley.
More Christmas Events Near Lake Oswego
More Christmas Events near Lake Oswego
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.