Santa Train — Coopersville & Marne Railway

The Santa Train is run by the Friends of the Coopersville and Marne Railway from Coopersville, Michigan. The operator describes it as one of its most popular rides and one of the most popular theme trains of the year.

The vintage train carries a special seat reserved for Santa and his elves. Every child meets Santa and receives a special gift from him, and elves escort each child to see Santa individually so parents can take pictures. Elves, and sometimes Mrs. Claus, may read stories on board, and Santa makes extra stops to ride the train on each departure.

Coach Class uses newly renovated vintage passenger cars over 100 years old. Premium Class has table-and-chair seating, four to a table, with hot cocoa and a cookie from a local Coopersville bakery included. According to the operator, all the coaches are comfortably heated and each has a restroom.

The operator says the trains sell out quickly and recommends buying tickets in advance, particularly for family group seating.

A 90-minute ride for all ages on a heated vintage train, with a visit from Santa, who gives every child a special gift. Elves escort each child to see Santa individually so parents can take photos, and elves or Mrs. Claus may read stories on board. Premium Class adds table seating with hot cocoa and a cookie.

The ticket office is at 306 Main Street, Coopersville, Michigan, and the boarding platform is at 311 Danforth Street. Passengers should arrive 30 minutes early for boarding; guests with a car and seat assignment go straight to the platform, others see the ticket agent. Coaches are heated and each has a restroom. Infants under age 1 without a seat ride free, and wheelchair seats use a tie-down track system. The operator says Santa trains sell out quickly and seat availability is updated in real time. Phone: 616-997-7000.