Santa Trains at Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
Passengers embark on a leisurely journey departing from the North Judson depot through the rural winter landscape. During the trip, families can visit with Santa and take memorable photos, while every child aboard receives a special gift from Santa. Guests travel in historic railcars, with options ranging from 1950s commuter coaches to vintage first-class business cars.
What to Expect
Scenic train ride through rural Indiana with Santa visits and gifts.
Event Details
Duration
60 minutes.
Ages
All Ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
Food & Drink
Complimentary light refreshments are included with First Class lounge and private-room seating and private-car rentals.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and nostalgic
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Coach: adults (ages 16+) $30; children (ages 3-15) $25; toddlers (ages 0-2) free. Economy Coach: adults (ages 16+) $25; children (ages 3-15) $20; toddlers (ages 0-2) free. First Class Lounge: $35 per person; toddlers age 2 and under are welcome with no ticket necessary. First Class Private Room: $110 per group, includes seating for up to 3 passengers; passengers 2 and under do not count toward the 3-passenger limit. First Class Private Car: $875 per group for all ages, includes seating for up to 15 passengers. Infants and toddlers ride free but must ride on a parent’s or guardian’s lap. Online ticket purchases have a booking fee. Complimentary light refreshments are included onboard for First Class and First Class Private Car. – Get tickets
- Hours: 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 6:00 pm.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed on the train.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train, because late boarding is not allowed and the train will not wait.
- Use the restroom before you board, since there are no working restrooms on the train during the hour-long ride.
- Plan your arrival on Central (Chicago) time, because every Santa Train runs on Central time.
- Book Economy Coach if you're a large group, since its closer seating suits big parties travelling together.
- Infants and toddlers ride free on a parent's or guardian's lap, so plan to keep little ones on your lap.
Special Events & Promotions
- First Class seats are in the 1924 Monon Business Car, either in the lounge or in private rooms for up to 3. Free light refreshments are included.
- The First Class Private Car books the whole 1917 Norfolk and Western Business Car #300 for a party of up to 15. Light refreshments are included.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens on the Santa Train?
The train leaves the North Judson depot for a slow ride through the rural winter countryside. On board, families visit Santa and take photos, and every child gets a gift from Santa.
How long is the ride?
The trip lasts about 60 minutes.
What seating options are there?
Coach is the roomier 1950s commuter car. Economy Coach is the other 1950s commuter car, with closer seating that suits large groups. First Class is in the 1924 Monon Business Car, with lounge seats or private rooms for up to 3. The First Class Private Car reserves the whole 1917 Norfolk and Western Business Car #300 for a party of up to 15.
Is food or drink served on board?
Free light refreshments are served in First Class and in the First Class Private Car.
Are there restrooms on the train?
No. The train has no working restrooms.
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