Happy Holiday Railway — Illinois Railway Museum

The Illinois Railway Museum in Union, Illinois, runs the Happy Holiday Railway as a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself. Trains leave from the museum’s historic East Union Depot, where a warming station sits next to the boarding area.

The operator lists treats and hot chocolate served on board, an animated light show and holiday song presentation during the trip, and gifts for children on Santa’s “good list”. For guests who prefer to avoid animated lights, a “quiet car”, number 7658, omits the entertainment and keeps traditional lights and decorations; the same ticket allows boarding whichever car you prefer.

The ticket also covers a wider holiday visit to the museum. There are holiday lights throughout the campus, including an animated snow plow display, a meet-and-greet with Mrs. Claus in a heated tent near the entrance, a holiday light tour through Barn 6 by day or night, the indoor heated Model Railroad exhibit, historic trains in the display barns, and rides on historic Chicago streetcars. Parking is free. The operator runs a canned food drive during the event and says proceeds support the museum’s educational outreach.

A 40-minute train ride with Santa, treats and hot chocolate, an animated light show and holiday songs, and gifts for children on Santa’s “good list”. Around the ride: holiday lights across the campus, a Mrs. Claus meet-and-greet in a heated tent, a light tour in Barn 6, the model railroad and streetcar rides. A quiet car without the animated entertainment is available.

At the Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union, Illinois (northwest of Elgin, in McHenry County); trains leave from the historic East Union Depot. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time. Everyone past their second birthday needs a ticket. Parking is free. No refunds except in case of event cancellation, but tickets may be rebooked depending on availability. Opening weekend includes a weather-dependent fireworks display, included in admission.