Free Santa Train Rides for Families This Winter
Four free Santa train events list December dates, street addresses, and arrival times for a low-cost family outing.
Yes, families can find free Santa train rides this winter. A Santa train is a short holiday ride with Santa visits, lights, and photos. Events in Michigan, Illinois, and Texas list December dates with no admission charge.
Some ask for a donation or food-bank item, but none requires a ticket purchase.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 03, 2026.
Michigan: Southgate and Midland
According to Great Lakes Live Steamers, Santa's Christmas Train runs only at Southgate Train Park, 13901 Leroy St., Southgate, MI, on Dec. 4-5, 2026. Miniature train rides are listed as free, with donations appreciated Great Lakes Live Steamers 2026 ride schedule.
According to Downtown Midland, the Santa House and Northern Star Train run Dec. 1-23. The trackless train loops through downtown lights during Santa House season, and Santa arrives Dec.
1 Downtown Midland holiday events page. Southgate uses small ride-on trains inside a park. Midland uses a trackless train that circles downtown streets to view lights.
Illinois: Gurnee evening arrival and concert
According to the Village of Gurnee, the free CPKC Holiday Train event runs Dec. 8, 2026, from 4-6 p.m. The train arrives about 5 p.m., followed by a concert at 5:15 p.m Village of Gurnee Holiday Train notice.
The village asks visitors to bring nonperishable food for Northern Illinois Food Bank. The benefit is free entry to the event, not a chance to win. Arrive before 5 p.m.
for parking and viewing space. The arrival and concert times leave a short window for the main activity.
Texas: Denison park rides and Santa photos
According to Downtown Denison, Wonders of Winter is free on Dec. 11, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Forest Park, 300 W.
Crawford St. Train rides around the park are included Downtown Denison Wonders of Winter listing. The same night offers Santa photos, snow play, a petting zoo, and carnival rides.
Families can combine the train ride with photos in one visit. This stop works well for young children who want several activities together. Plan for lines at Santa photos and the train boarding area.
What to check before you leave
Free means no ticket is required, but space and weather can limit rides. Check the event page on the day of travel and plan to arrive early. Bring a nonperishable for Gurnee and arrive before 5 p.m.
to park and see the train arrive.
- Confirm date, hours, and parking before driving.
- Dress for waiting outside in December weather.
- Bring a donation or food item where requested.
- Keep small children with an adult near tracks and boarding areas.