Join the Holiday Express in Portland for a magical train ride with Santa and festive cheer along the Willamette River. Experience a historic steam locomotive trip filled with holiday lights and surprises!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; the experience is mainly seated aboard the train with light walking around the heritage center.
Wildlife
History
The Polson #2 steam locomotive dates back to the early 20th century and is a treasured piece of Oregon’s railroading history.
Conservation
The Oregon Rail Heritage Center promotes sustainable preservation by maintaining vintage equipment and educating visitors on railroad heritage.
Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Join the Holiday Express in Portland for a magical train ride with Santa and festive cheer along the Willamette River. Experience a historic steam locomotive trip filled with holiday lights and surprises!
The Oregon Rail Heritage Center preserves, restores, and showcases historic locomotives while offering public train rides that connect visitors to the region’s rail legacy.
Located on the Willamette River in Portland, the Center displays a collection of vintage engines and rolling stock, including the restored Polson #2 steam locomotive. Visitors can tour interpretive exhibits that explain how steam and diesel technology shaped transportation in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Beyond static displays, the Center operates scheduled 45-minute excursions that provide both an authentic rail experience and scenic views of the river and downtown Portland.
Signature experiences include the festive Holiday Express — a themed ride with Santa and elves aboard vintage rail cars pulled by Polson #2 — and open-air diesel trips that offer wildlife viewing and riverside panoramas. The Center also hosts regular community events such as Saturday train rides and Father’s Day–themed trips that cater to families and rail enthusiasts alike. Advance reservations are recommended for popular runs and seasonal events.
Staff, volunteers, and preservation experts at the Center prioritize historical accuracy, safety, and visitor engagement. The facility partners with local organizations and leverages hands-on restoration work to keep locomotives operational for public enjoyment. As a museum and active heritage railroad, the Oregon Rail Heritage Center combines education, preservation, and memorable ride experiences for guests of all ages.
Ride Length
45 min
Scenic round-trip duration
Signature Engine
Polson #2
Historic steam locomotive on rides
Scenic Route
Willamette River
Riverfront views and wildlife
Holiday Favorite
Holiday Express
Seasonal Santa train experience
Secure tickets for Holiday Express, Polson #2 steam trips, Saturday rides, and special events — seats are limited.
Book Early
This popular holiday experience often sells out quickly, so reserve your tickets well in advance.
Dress Warmly
The ride is outdoors and can be chilly in winter, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the outing.
Arrive Early to Explore
Give yourself time to visit the Oregon Rail Heritage Center exhibits before the ride starts for added enjoyment.
Bring a Camera
Capture the intricate details of vintage railcars, festive decorations, and scenic river views along the route.
Warm Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during chilly outdoor waits and on the open train cars.
winter
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Recommended for exploring the heritage center grounds before or after the ride.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture festive moments, vintage train details, and scenic river views.
Hat and Gloves
Protect extremities from cold during the outdoor wait times and train ride.
winter