Santa Claus Express
Passengers take an approximately 2.5-hour round-trip train ride aboard railcars adorned with exterior lights, garland, and holiday ornaments. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their helpers visit and entertain passengers alongside holiday music, treats, and refreshments. Families can arrange for Santa to personally hand their child a wrapped surprise during the trip.
All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Food & Drink
Holiday goodies and refreshments are part of the ride, and food and other refreshments are available for purchase onboard.
Accessibility
The depot features a wheelchair lift, but wheelchairs are strictly limited to 24 inches in width for both the lift and train.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Book ahead, because the Santa Claus Express sells out and every ride requires a reservation made in advance.
- Buy tickets for your whole group in one transaction so everyone is guaranteed to sit together in the same car.
- Get to the Milford depot with time to spare, since trains leave promptly at the listed departure time.
- Drop a small gift labeled with your child's first and last name at the Reindeer Shack behind the depot so Santa can hand it over.
- Dress warmly even though cars are heated when the weather calls for it, especially if you plan to spend time in the Open Air Cars.
Links & Contact
Run by Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the ride?
About two and a half hours. It's a round trip from the Milford depot, and nobody gets off along the way.
Can Santa give my child a present on the train?
Yes. Bring a small gift with your child's first and last name clearly attached. On the day of your ride, drop it at the Reindeer Shack behind the depot, and Santa will hand it over on board.
Is there food on board?
There are holiday music, goodies and refreshments for everyone. Food and other refreshments are also for sale, and every train has restrooms.
What seating can we choose?
Standard Coach has flip-over seats for two. Premium Coach has reclining seats, and there are also Lounge Seats. Coach Tables seat up to four, and extra toddlers can ride on laps. Anyone can use the Dining Car and Open Air Cars.
How do we make sure we sit with another family?
Book everyone in one transaction. Each seating class is in its own car, so you can't mix classes in one booking.
Browse Christmas in Utica
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.