For adults, holiday trains conjure a feeling of nostalgia, and for little ones, they add a special kind of seasonal magic. Whether young or young at heart, train lovers of all ages will find plenty of festive energy to get them in the holiday spirit at these train displays and rides in St. Louis.
The Polar Express Train Ride
Immerse your children in the beloved holiday story by American author Chris Van Allsburg. Come dressed in festive pajamas to listen to a read-aloud of the story, and enjoy hot cocoa and a treat during your journey. When you arrive at the “North Pole,” Santa will visit every child and give them a magical gift. Note: A sensory-friendly experience is scheduled for November 25 & 26, when the lights and sounds in two train cars will be reduced.
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When: Nov. 15–Dec. 30. See website for schedule.
Where: Union Station, 201 S. 18th.
Cost: $40–$120
Santa’s Magical Kingdom
Board Santa’s train or hop on an old-fashioned wagon for a journey through millions of twinkling lights spanning 35 acres. Kids can also bring their letters to Santa to drop off in his mailbox.
When: Nov. 17–Jan. 5. See website for schedule.
Where: Santa’s Magical Kingdom at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone National Park, 5300 Fox Creek, Pacific.
Cost: $35 per family vehicle; $50 per passenger and transport van, limo, and small bus (cash only)
Holiday Flower and Train Show
When you’re visiting the Missouri Botanical Garden for the Garden Glow, don’t forget to stop by the Emerson Conservatory for an extra dose of holiday magic. Both kids and adults will delight in watching the model trains travel through the mini villages among the live foliage.
When: Nov. 16–Jan. 1, 2024. See website for schedule.
Where: Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw.
Cost: Included with general and Garden Glow admission. Prices vary, see website for details.
Holiday Season at TNMOT
The E. Desmond Lee and Famous-Barr/Macy’s Holiday Train display will be on view throughout the season, along with mini train and trolley rides (weather permitting). Want to make it an extra-special outing? Plan to visit November 30 to see Santa arrive by helicopter.
When: Nov. 29–Dec. 30. See website for schedule.
Where: The National Museum of Transportation, 2933 Barrett Station.
Cost: $16; $14 seniors and first responders; $8 children ages 2–12. Extra fees may apply for certain activities.
Santa at Nickel Plate Station
Welcome Santa to the historic Nickel Plate Station the Saturday after Thanksgiving. He’ll arrive via fire truck around 1 p.m. and be available for visits twice per week.
When: Starting Nov. 30; Wednesdays, 5:30–8 p.m. and Saturdays, 1–4 p.m. (except Dec. 7).
Where: Nickel Plate Station, across from Market Basket on Troy Road, Edwardsville, IL
Cost: Free.
Holiday Train Display
The St. Charles County Heritage Museum’s annual tradition is back! Train fanatics will delight in the sights and sounds of model trains as they make their way through whimsical scenes that include models of St. Charles County landmark buildings.
When: Nov. 30–Jan. 5; Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, noon–5 p.m.
Where: Heritage Museum, 1630 Heritage Landing, Saint Peters
Cost: Free
