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.
Nov 27 – Dec 27, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
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.
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.
Food & Drink
Hot cocoa and cookies are available from concessions at the Center.
Location
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
Links & 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
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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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.