November 28, 29 and 30 and December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21, 2008

To check for current availability, click on the "Buy Online Now" button. Any date/time shown can be purchased. If a date is not shown in the online ordering section, that means it is sold out. Tickets will be avaible for pick up at our "will-call" desk on the day of your trip.

The Steam Railroading Institute is pleased to announce the return of its expanded North Pole Express program. Passengers will board at the Steam Railroading Institute's Visitor Center in Owosso, Michigan for a memorable journey to the North Pole. Before departure, the North Pole Express train arrives, pulled by the Pere Marquette No. 1225, with lots of steam, bell ringing and whistle blowing. Guests will then board the train for a trip to Santa's Village. Santa will greet the North Pole Express upon its arrival and invite the children to come play at Santa's Village. The train will stay at Santa's Village for approximately an hour and fifteen minutes, after which the North Pole Express will then return to the Steam Railroading Institute, drop off its passengers and disappear into the night.

FAQs

Q: Do I receive tickets in the mail?                                                                                    

A: No. The email confirmation you receive at the time you purchase your tickets serves as your reservation until the day of your trip. Upon your arrival at SRI (we ask that you arrive an hour before your trip)  you will pick up your tickets at our "will-call" desk, located in our Visitor's Center. These tickets are designed to be souvenirs, a momento of your trip.

Q: What does the "North Pole Express" include?

A: The "North Pole Express" is an immersive experience for                                                          the entire family. Passengers enter the story of the magical                                                      "North Pole Express" at the Steam Railroading Institute's                                                          Visitor Center in Owosso. Once aboard the train the story                                                     continues to "Santa's Village" in Chesaning's "North Pole USA"                                                   with hot chocolate served by the Porters. At "Santa's Village"                                                     passengers will visit with Santa while exploring on their own for more than an hour. When the locomotive blows a long whistle passenger will board the train for the return trip to the Steam Railroading Institute's Visitor Center.

Q: What is the "Santa's Village?"
A: The Saginaw County Fair Grounds holds their winter fair called "Santa's Village at North Pole USA." "North Pole Express" passengers are brought to the Fair Grounds and unload at the Fair Grounds Boarding Platform. "Santa's Village" is housed in a large commercial building on the Fair Grounds site. The building is heated for a very comfortable temperature when wearing a coat or sweater. A variety of attractions will be available in the Village such as a puppet show, Santa Claus, and holiday rides including a Carousel. Visitors can have their pictures taken next to the Authentic "North Pole USA" or with Santa. The scene created will attempt to replicate the imaginary and magical village at the North Pole. Admission to "Santa's Village" is included in your North Pole Express package.

Q: When should I arrive at the Steam Railroading Institute?
A: The Steam Railroading Institute is open to visitors until one hour before departure. North Pole Express riders are welcome to visit the Steam Railroading Institute before that time but be advised that the site is closed for each of the 9 days. North Pole Express passengers are welcome to start arriving at the Steam Railroading Institute one hour before their departure time. Riders will be required to present their boarding passes as they enter the site. The train arrives at the Steam Railroading Institute about 15 minutes prior to departure so we recommend being at the Visitor Center no less than 30 minutes prior to departure.

Q: Is there lodging available in the area?
A: Please see the Shiawassee County Lodging and Camping page by the Shiawassee County Convention and Visitor Bureau. The closest lodging is the Comstock Inn and Conference Center located immediately across the river from the Steam Railroading Institute.

Q: Will the Steam Railroading Institute be adding more dates or times as these trips sell out?
A: No, but we would be happy to add your name to our mailing list.

Q: Can I add my name to the mailing list for Steam Railroading Institute events?
A: It would be our pleasure. Simply call or write us with your name, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address. Guests on this year's North Pole Express trains will automatically be added to our mailing list.