Ride the Santa Express or Fall Color Tours along Lenawee County’s historic rail corridor — family-friendly themed excursions aboard vintage cars and private cabooses.
Santa Express holiday rides and Fall Color Tours in private cabooses, commuter cars, and an open air gondola between Tecumseh and Clinton.
land-adventures · Tecumseh
Explore Michigan’s autumn landscape from the wide-vision cupola of a private historic caboose. This fall color tour between Tecumseh and Clinton offers panoramic views, complimentary cider, and vintage railroad charm for groups up to 10.
Southern Michigan Railroad, based in Clinton, Michigan, operates nostalgic passenger excursions along Lenawee County’s historic rail corridor. The railroad offers seasonal Santa Express trains and Fall Color Tours in a variety of vintage cars and private cabooses. Santa Express options include private DWP, private NH, South Shore Commuter Car, and NYC Memorial Caboose departures that board passengers at Clinton United Methodist Church and other local boarding points. On Santa Express rides, children can visit Santa’s Caboose, share holiday wishes, receive a gift, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa served by attendants, and browse the gift shop.
Fall Color Tours run along scenic stretches through Lenawee County and include Private DWP, Private NH, South Shore Commuter Car, NYC Memorial Caboose, and an Open Air Gondola that operates from Tecumseh to Clinton. Fall excursions feature wildlife viewing, vibrant autumn foliage, and layovers at Clinton Station with complimentary apple cider, souvenir shopping, and chances to explore vintage railroad equipment, including a 1926 diesel locomotive featured on select trips.
Southern Michigan Railroad accommodates private caboose experiences for small groups and family adventures, with options designed for up to eight passengers in select private cars. The operation emphasizes historic equipment, nostalgic rail travel, and family-friendly events. Schedules and specific boarding locations vary by trip type; interested visitors should consult official listings for departure details and ticket availability. Tickets and schedules appear on Southern Michigan Railroad official listings.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Base of seasonal departures
Holiday and autumn excursions
Private family seating available
Complimentary at Clinton Station
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current Southern Michigan Railroad listing.
Southern Michigan Railroad offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Reserve Santa Express or Fall Color Tour tickets and private caboose seating — check official listings for schedules, boarding points, and availability.
land-adventures · Tecumseh
Take a scenic 2-hour train ride through Lenawee County’s vibrant autumn landscape aboard a historic 1926 diesel commuter car. Enjoy apple cider and vintage railroad charm during a mid-trip layover in Clinton.
land-adventures · Tecumseh
Step aboard a private historic caboose and traverse Michigan’s colorful fall landscape on a two-hour train ride through Lenawee County. Enjoy apple cider, vintage railroad artifacts, and unforgettable autumn views on this intimate journey.
land-adventures · Tecumseh
Experience the vibrant fall colors of Lenawee County, Michigan, aboard an open-air gondola train. This scenic two-hour journey from Tecumseh to Clinton features stunning autumn views, wildlife sightings, and a charming layover with fresh apple cider.
land-adventures · Tecumseh
Discover the magic of autumn along Lenawee County’s historic rail corridor aboard the NYC Memorial Caboose. Sip fresh apple cider, explore vintage railroad gear, and soak in vibrant fall colors on this 2-hour scenic train tour departing Tecumseh, Michigan.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.