All aboard for holiday magic in metro Detroit! This season, hop on real train rides or explore dazzling train displays that will delight kids and families alike.
From enchanting Polar Express readings to sparkling light shows, these train-themed experiences bring the festive spirit to life. One of our top picks is the Holiday Express Train Rides in Clinton Township, where the classic Polar Express story is brought to life—a must for fans of this Christmas favorite!
Plan ahead and register early as these holiday train rides fill up quickly.
This article was updated on Nov. 15, 2024, by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator, Kari Zaffarano, to feature new events and the best holiday train experiences in metro Detroit. For questions, contact kari@metroparent.com.
Best holiday trains in metro Detroit
Christmas Holiday Magic
Nov. 29-30; Dec. 1, 6-8, 13-15, 18-22, 2024
- Address: Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad, 6140 Bray Road, Flint
- Cost: $27/adults, $26/seniors, $25/kids 2-12, free/under 2
Travel north to Flint for Christmas at Crossroads Holiday. Train lovers can climb aboard an authentic Baldwin steam locomotive for a 40-minute journey along the shores of Mott Lake and Crossroads Village, a historic town that’s transformed into an 1800s-era Christmas village.
Santa’s Sleigh Cabin & Spicer Express Train
Nov. 29-30; Dec 1, 5, 8-12, 14-19, 21-23, 2024
- Address: Spicer Orchards, 10411 Clyde Road, Fenton
- Cost: $18/day ticket, $20/night ticket
Bring your letter for Santa and ride the Spicer Train to the Sleigh Cabin. Visit with Santa at his Sleigh Cabin. Also, a bonfire, cider and a donut.
Holiday Express Train Rides
Dec. 14 and 21, 2024
- Address: Joy Park, 24001 Joy Blvd., Clinton Township
- Cost: $19/residents, $25/non-residents
Families can enjoy a holiday train ride complete with a reading of The Polar Express, hot chocolate, cookies and carols. Registration required.
Other train activities in metro Detroit
Henry Ford Museum Lionel Train Display
Through Dec. 31, 2024
- Address: Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn
- Cost: $34-$36/adults, $25.50-$27/ages 5-11, free/members and children 4 and under
During the holiday season, the halls transform into a wonderland with Christmas trees covered in hundreds of ornaments – and a giant Lionel train display. Look for special engines and train cars that only come out during the holidays.
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
Nov. 25, 2024
- Locations in metro Detroit
- Cost: Free
View the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train all hit up as it cuts through Metro Detroit on its way from Canada. Follow along with Michigan Storm Chasers on Facebook to find out when it will be in the area.
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