All Aboard the Train in Michigan Where You Can Take the Scenic Route

If I could travel everywhere by train, I would. That holds especially true for Michigan, with its incredible scenery. Although soaring through cotton candy clouds has its perks, there is something special about zipping through towns, around mountains, and through valleys in a train—especially aboard one as special as the Pere Marquette No. 1225. You see, this 1941 steam locomotive is not only a vintage beauty. It actually inspired the look and sound of the iconic, titular train in the holiday classic The Polar Express. For both the book and the film, this scenic train became a recognizable character of its own around the world.

Owned by the Steam Railroading Institute out of Owosso, Michigan, the Pere Marquette 1225 is the largest steam locomotive ever used in the state. Although its jet black appearance doesn't exactly scream "Christmas time," the author of The Polar Express, Chris Van Allsburg, thought of it fondly. Van Allsburg recalled spending time on the train as a child and wanted to incorporate it into his book. The fact that the train's model number is also 1225 (12/25 or Christmas Day) made it a fitting choice for the book's theme. The filmmakers for the 2004 film adaptation even went so far as to utilize the Pere Marquette 1225's specs in their designs.

It is also used at other times of the year for scenic rides of various lengths around Michigan. However, its shining moment is undoubtedly the North Pole Express ride, which lasts four and a half hours round-trip and takes you to the Village of Ashley's Country Christmas. Riders dress up in their holiday best, pajamas, or in the style of the locomotive's vintage—the 1940s. However folks show up, though, it's bound to be a festive good time. The event is so popular, it frequently sells out before the holiday season even begins. Tickets usually go on sale during the summer, making them a hot commodity every holiday season.

The train cars get the holiday treatment as well, which sets the tone for an evening of cheer. Every level of ticket for the North Pole Express comes with a set of amenities and trinkets; however, all guests receive a "Believe" bell, a souvenir ticket, admission to the Village of Ashley Country Christmas, and a complimentary cup of hot cocoa. Guests can even rent out an entire train car for up to 26 riders for the event. Regardless of fare, the result is still the same: re-living your favorite moments from The Polar Express. You might need to do your own Tom Hanks impersonations to make it even more real. Visit the Steam Railroading Institute on the Web for information on train rides and tickets.

Want to see Michigan's splendor by train or hunker down in one of its incredible lakeside towns for a long winter's nap? Try out the Only In Your State AI Travel Planner to put you on your own express train to vacation bliss. And don't forget to stop by some of these towns in Michigan if you're in need of even more holiday cheer!