The Holiday Express
Passengers board heated vintage rail cars decorated in festive cheer for a scenic journey along the Willamette River pulled by a historic steam locomotive. Santa Claus and his elves join the ride to share holiday cheer with guests. Before or after boarding, visitors can explore museum exhibits, browse the gift shop, and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies from concessions.
What to Expect
Ride behind a historic steam locomotive with Santa and his elves
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Food & Drink
Hot cocoa and cookies are available from concessions at the Center.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adults (14+) $35; children (3–13) $25; infants (under 3) free on lap; seniors (65+) and military $32 (military ID must be shown at check-in); family pass $105 for 2 adults and 2 children. Service charges apply for each ticket purchased. Admission to the Center is included with the train ticket. – Get tickets
- Hours: Departures listed in the schedule: 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM, and 7:00 PM; which times run varies by date.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets in advance, and arrive at least 20 minutes early to check in, because trains leave promptly at the time on your ticket.
- Choose an early dusk train if you want to see the train lit up, or a daytime train for scenery and a chance to spot wildlife.
- Look for departures marked On Sale on the schedule, since those carry a 10% discount off the regular ticket price.
- Military guests should bring their military ID, because it has to be shown at check-in to use the military ticket rate.
- Give yourself extra time at the Center, since your ticket includes admission to the exhibits, Gift Shop and hot cocoa and cookie concessions.
Special Events & Promotions
- Some departures are marked On Sale at a 10% discount
- Family Pass covers 2 adults and 2 children
- Discounted tickets for seniors (65+) and military, with military ID shown at check-in
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Santa be on the train?
Yes. Santa Claus and his elves join the ride.
Are the rail cars heated?
Yes. The vintage rail cars are heated and decorated for the holidays. A historic steam locomotive pulls them along the Willamette River.
Should we pick a daytime or dusk train?
Daytime trains offer more varied scenery and a chance to see wildlife. Early dusk trains are your chance to see the train lit up with its holiday lights.
What else is there to do at the Center?
Your train ticket includes admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. Before or after the ride you can tour the exhibits, shop the Gift Shop and get hot cocoa and cookies from the concessions.
How early should we get there?
Arrive at least 20 minutes before your train to check in and board. Trains leave promptly at the time on your ticket.
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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.