The holidays are the highlight of the year for many children, and combining them with festive train rides and enchanting boat trips will have your kids over the moon! In this guide, we’ve compiled some of the best holiday train and ship experiences in the area. Many of these magical journeys feature a special appearance by Santa Claus, and most include the warmth of delicious hot chocolate. Get ready to create unforgettable memories this holiday season—let the festivities begin!
Cinnamon Bear Breakfast Cruise
For generations, families have been sharing breakfast and listening to magical character story time on board the Portland Spirit. Find out what all the fuss is about, if you haven’t experienced the magic yet.
🗓️ Select dates, November 29-December 27
📍 Portland Spirit (Board at Salmon Springs Dock, 1010 SW Naito Pkwy.)
🎟️ $85 per adults, $60 for children ages 2-11 and $15 for infants
🐻 Includes food, drink, performances, photo with Cinnamon Bear and more!
Holiday Express
The holidays don’t officially begin until that old steam whistle bleats out from the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. The Holiday Express train ride has all the fixins’ for a sweet, family-friendly ride. The interior of the train is decorated with holiday lights, friendly volunteers give information about the train, and Santa and his elves make a visit to each car to hand out candy canes. This ride always sells out, so don’t wait!
🗓️ Fridays-Sundays, November 28-December 28
📍All trains load at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave.
🎟️ $34 per adult and teenagers, $25 for children ages 3-13 and free for infants 2 and under. Pro tip: Get family tickets for $105 (two adults and two children)
🚂 Santa and his elves will be on board!
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Christmas Special Train
Take a scenic trip through southwest Washington on a 1941 diesel train, and get a visit and a gift from Santa. Plus enjoy hot beverages!
🗓️ December 13-14 and December 20-21
📍Train loads at 207 N. Railroad Ave., Yacolt ,WA
🎟️ $22 per adult and $16 per child ages 3-12
🎅 Santa has a special gift for each kiddo!
Christmas Ships
Operating for more than half a century, the light-filled Christmas Ships parade down the Willamette and Columbias rivers is a must-see. Dress warm, brings a thermos, and enjoy the sights!
🗓️ Select days, December 4-21
📍Choose a viewing spot along one of the routes.
🎟️ Free!
⛵ Fleets usually begin around 7 pm.
Candy Cane Express
Enjoy cookies and cocoa and views of the Oregon coastline! Plus write a letter while you wait for a visit from Santa. Musicians will also be on board to get the crowd going in rousing holiday carols!
🗓️ Weekends and select weekdays, November 28-December 23
📍Trains load at 306 American Ave. Garibaldi
🎟️ Pricing depends on the day. Indoor cars: $42-47 per adult, $$31-36 per child ages 3-12 and free for infants on lap. Covered outdoor cars: $33-$36 per adult, $22-$25 per child ages 3-12 and free for infants on lap.
🚂 Rent the caboose for $450-$600 (seats up to 10 people)!
The Polar Express Train Ride at Mount Hood Railroad
Enjoy festive music and meet Santa in this charming train experience. Everyone receives a cookie and hot cocoa, and you may also bring your own snacks and drinks.
🗓️ Weekends and select weekdays, November 21-January 3
📍Trains load at 113 Railroad Avenue, Hood River
🎟️ Pricing depends on the day and seating location. $59-$109 per adult, $49-$99 per child ages 2-12
🎅 Each kiddo will get a special bell from Santa’s sleigh!
The Polar Express Train Ride at Chehalis Centralia Railroad
The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum in Washington offers a Polar Express ride featuring an interactive reading of the popular book, plus a visit from Santa, cocoa and cookies. This popular train ride sells out quickly!
🗓️ Weekends and select weekdays, November 22-December 21
📍Trains load at 1101 SW Sylvenus St., Chehalis, WA
🎟️ $66 per person; infants 2 and under are free
🎅 Each kiddo will get a special visit with gift from Santa!
Looking for even more festive fun? Celebrate the holidays like a local and don’t miss the PNW’s fantastic light displays!