Illustration of Santa checking a long list at a desk with an elf while children peek around a door (Santa Express & Holiday Flyer Trains)

Santa Express & Holiday Flyer Trains

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Step back in time for a magical holiday train adventure at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. Choose between the Santa Express for a classic visit with Santa and gifts for children, or the Holiday Flyer for a festive evening ride with hot chocolate and seasonal cheer. Both experiences offer a charming journey through the countryside in vintage, heated railcars, creating unforgettable holiday memories.

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

fareharbor.com

Tickets

$$

Ages

All ages (Holiday Nightcap not permitted for infants)

Food & Drink

Hot chocolate and goodies provided on the Holiday Flyer.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Mid-Continent Railway Museum · E8948 Museum Road, North Freedom, WI 53951 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children, holiday enthusiasts, train lovers

Vibe

Festive, nostalgic, charming, historic

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Book tickets well in advance, as all Santa Express and Holiday Flyer trains are expected to sell out.
  • Allow extra travel time if driving in winter weather and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
  • The Santa Express is ideal for families with younger children, while the Holiday Flyer offers a festive experience for adults or families with older children.
  • Dress warmly, as the vintage railcars are heated by traditional steam or coal-fired stoves, providing a historic but potentially cooler atmosphere.
  • Check current road conditions via 511wi.gov before your trip, as trains operate regardless of weather.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa Express: Visit from Santa Claus and small gift for children.
  • Holiday Flyer: Hot chocolate and treats provided onboard.
  • Vintage railcars heated by steam or coal-fired stoves.
  • Evening rides available on the Holiday Flyer for a twilight/after-dark experience.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets Contact

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

What is the difference between the Santa Express and the Holiday Flyer?

The Santa Express includes a visit from Santa Claus and a small gift for children, while the Holiday Flyer offers a festive evening ride with hot chocolate and treats, but without Santa.

Are the train cars heated?

Yes, all train cars are kept comfortably warm using the over century-old tradition of steam heating or coal-fired stoves.

What is the duration of the train rides?

Both the Santa Express and Holiday Flyer rides last approximately 55 minutes.

Can I bring my pet?

No pets are allowed on the trains, though service animals are welcome.

What happens if there is bad weather?

The Santa Express and Holiday Flyer trains operate as scheduled regardless of weather conditions.

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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.

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