Holiday Train Rides in Kansas, Missouri

If you have a train lover in the house, there’s nothing like introducing them to the magic of a holiday train! There are options close to home and some that you can make into a day or weekend trip.

Guide to Holiday Train Rides 

Cowtown Santa Express (Abilene)

Polar Express Train (Branson)

This is a ride to the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus. During the trip the book “The Polar Express” is read aloud, and hot chocolate and cookies are served by the chefs. Santa joins the ride at the North Pole and visits each car, giving each passenger a special gift. Christmas carolers and the hobo are also on board the train. The ride lasts 1 hour 15 minutes. For all the details, check out the Branson Railway FAQ section.

Mini Holiday Express Train (Kansas City)

Take a ride on the miniature train at Union Station in Kansas City! Often referred to as the Jones Store Train and beloved by generations at the holidays, it was once a popular attraction at the Jones Store in downtown KC. Riders must be under 48″ tall (approximately 5-6 years of age and under). Accessible with paid admission to Holiday Reflections, the Union Station’s walk-thru village.

Holiday Train Stop (Kansas City, Pittsburg)

The 2024 CPKC Holiday Train will tour Canada and the U.S. Nov. 21 through Dec. 20, raising money, food and awareness to support food banks across our network. Professional musicians play free concerts from the brightly decorated train’s stage. CPKC donates to the local food bank at each stop and encourages all attendees to make a monetary or heart-healthy food donation.