Ride Michigan’s holiday rails aboard the Southern Michigan Railroad’s festive Santa Express in Clinton. Enjoy vintage cabins, historic stories, and a surprise visit from Santa on this family-friendly winter outing.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Accessible for most age groups and fitness levels, requiring only the ability to board and sit comfortably.
Wildlife
History
Southern Michigan Railroad preserves rail history in a region integral to Michigan’s early railroad expansion in the 19th century.
Conservation
Volunteer efforts focus on sustainable preservation practices to protect historic equipment while minimizing environmental impact on surrounding farmland.
Southern Michigan Railroad
Ride Michigan’s holiday rails aboard the Southern Michigan Railroad’s festive Santa Express in Clinton. Enjoy vintage cabins, historic stories, and a surprise visit from Santa on this family-friendly winter outing.
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.
Location
Clinton, MI
Base of seasonal departures
Tours Offered
Santa & Fall
Holiday and autumn excursions
Private Caboose
Up to 8
Private family seating available
Layovers & Refreshments
Apple cider & cocoa
Complimentary at Clinton Station
Reserve Santa Express or Fall Color Tour tickets and private caboose seating — check official listings for schedules, boarding points, and availability.
Book Early for Holiday Events
Santa Express trains fill quickly during the holiday season—reserve your seats well in advance to secure your preferred car.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to settle in and enjoy refreshments without rush.
Dress in Warm Layers
Though the trains are heated, outdoor waiting areas can be chilly—wear layers suited for Michigan’s winter weather.
Consider Accessibility
Passengers with limited mobility will find this ride manageable, but contact the railroad ahead to discuss special accommodations.
Warm Jacket
Stay warm while waiting outdoors or in unheated sections of the station.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture historic cars, scenic rural views, and special moments aboard the Santa Express.
Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven surfaces at the depot and boarding the train.
Reusable Water Bottle
Keep hydrated during the outing, especially if waiting outside.