The Magical Holiday Train Ride in Arkansas Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

If you’re anything like the rest of us, every year as the holidays start approaching, traditional Christmas events start filling up our calendars! Perhaps this year you’re searching for a new, fun holiday excursion in Arkansas. If so, we’ve got you covered. In between checking out all the Christmas light shows and holiday displays, consider taking a ride aboard the Holiday Express train, a fun holiday-themed train in Arkansas that the whole family will enjoy. 

The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad train offers one of the best Christmas train rides in the state, and you won't want to let this holiday season pass by without climbing aboard this whimsical attraction. This Christmas train ride in Arkansas will take your holiday plans to the next level and get you ready for the joyful season. It’s one of the most traditional Christmas events in Arkansas, and you don’t want to miss it this year. 

The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad has several holiday trains running as the Christmas season starts to approach. During the year, the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad schedule offers round-trip scenic tours through the Ozark Boston Mountains, which are a fantastic way to experience Arkansas' historic train tunnels and trestles. But the holidays offer something a little extra special and perfect for the whole family.

During the Christmas season, the railroad employs elves to host their special holiday trains, which are called the A&M Holiday Express trains. You'll also hear them referred to as the railroad's pajama trains, but feel free to put on the festive attire you love the most! Jammies and costumes or not, Santa and his elves work hard to make your holiday train experience as magical as possible.

Holiday Express trains depart every two hours. Double-check the A&M Railroad website for this year's schedule. There are typically multiple ride times to choose from that depart from either Van Buren or Springdale, but keep an eye out! Extra routes are sometimes added. These special Christmas train rides often include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus as well, plus hot chocolate (my favorite, yum!), Christmas carols, and oodles of cheerful surprises.

Even more special, the kiddos can write their letters to Santa while they're here, with plenty of time for Christmas deliveries! Writing letters to Santa is a favorite Christmas tradition for many of us, and I look forward to it every year. It's one of those traditions that really keep the magic of Christmas alive, and the little ones will be especially excited about it.

When you first arrive at the train station, the depot will be all decked out for the season as well. You'll immediately feel in the holiday spirit. You never know who will show up. You might even see Frosty or even the pesky Grinch sneaking around. Hop on the Holiday Express train ride in Arkansas, and you're sure to walk away with some fantastic Christmas memories! This festive Arkansas Christmas train ride is truly a one-of-a-kind event you won't want to miss. In fact, it might even become a new family tradition! It's on my Christmas list this year!

Address: 306 E Emma Ave, Springdale, AR 72764

To book your tickets for this sweet and nostalgic family Christmas train ride in Arkansas, visit the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad website. Are you planning on riding the Holiday Express this year? What is your favorite thing to do in Arkansas at Christmas? Let us know on our nomination page!

For more fun this winter, take a drive to one of these scenic destinations in Arkansas that are way out in the boonies ... and come alive in the most magical way during the holiday season. Or, curl up with a good book in front of a roaring fireplace at this charming cabin in the trees! Even better, when you're feeling inspired, personalize your own holiday trip in Arkansas using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.