7 Christmas Train Rides Near Toronto for the 2026 Holiday Season
Christmas train rides near Toronto are returning for the 2026 holiday season, with several heritage railways and farms in Ontario confirming their festive schedules. Rides run from late November through December in places such as Huntsville, Milton, St. Jacobs and Smiths Falls. Many include Santa visits, carols and hot chocolate. Some dates are still being finalized, so riders are advised to check each operator’s website before booking. Here are seven Christmas train experiences within driving distance of Toronto.
1. Portage Flyer Christmas Train Ride to Santa
The historic Portage Flyer runs along the Muskoka River to Purser’s Cabin, where riders meet Santa.
- Location: Muskoka Heritage Place, 100 Forbes Hill Drive, Huntsville
- Date: Saturday, December 19, 2026
- Highlights: Carol sing-along, cookies, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa
- Tickets: Sold at the station only; no advance sales
- Website: Muskoka Heritage Place
2. Christmas on the Rails
Halton County Radial Railway offers festive rides on vintage streetcars, marking its last operating weekends before spring.
- Location: Halton County Radial Railway, 13629 Guelph Line, Milton
- Dates: December 5, 6, 12 and 13, 2026
- Highlights: Christmas carols and treats aboard heritage streetcars
- Tickets: Purchased at the venue
- Website: HCRY
3. North Pole Express
The Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario runs a decorated vintage caboose, with Santa photos in an 1899 dining car.
- Location: Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls
- Dates: November 28, December 5 and December 12, 2026
- Highlights: Santa photos, hot chocolate, music, face painting and games
- Website: RMEO
4. Waterloo Central Railway Christmas Trains
Waterloo Central Railway runs both daytime and evening holiday trains, including an adults-only option.
- Location: Farmers Market Station, 330 Farmers Market Road, St. Jacobs
- Dates: Select days in November and December 2026
- Highlights: Daylight Christmas Express and Nighttime Christmas Special with music and storytelling
- Adults only: Santa’s Nightcap, for riders 19 and over
- Website: Waterloo Central Railway
5. Polar Express at Niemi’s Christmas Market
Niemi Family Farm’s train tour passes farm animals and ends at Santa’s workshop in Christmas Land.
- Location: Niemi Family Farm, 18463 Highway 48, Mount Albert
- Dates: 2026 dates to be announced
- Admission: Market entry is free; train rides require tickets
- Website: Niemi Family Farm
6. Harbourfront Express
Part of Harbourfront Centre’s Winterfest, this ride takes two classic trains through a frosted area on the West Campus.
- Location: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto
- Dates: 2026 dates to be announced
- Extras: Combo tickets with the Winter Maze
- Website: Harbourfront Centre
7. CPKC Holiday Train
The CPKC Holiday Train is a lit-up freight train that stops in communities for free concerts while collecting food bank donations.
- Toronto stop: Sunday, November 29, 2026, with American Authors and Tyler Shaw
- Admission: Free; donations to local food banks encouraged
- Schedule: Full Toronto stop details
Since some rides are weather-dependent, schedules may change. Meanwhile, ticket prices vary by operator, and popular dates often sell out early.
References
You Might Also Like…
