Experience the magic as you take a one hour, round trip journey from Hill City to the North Pole where Santa will board the train and ride back to Hill City, taking time to visit with each child on the way. Passengers enjoy hot cocoa, a sugar cookie and a special story on the way to the North Pole. Santa hands out a special gift to each child on the trip.
Holiday Express Spiked passengers enjoy everything received with a regular ride along with spiked hot cocoa in a keepsake mug! Adults only (21+), limited runs. Check out our new, Spiked only departures on Friday, December 6 at 5:30pm or 7:15 pm. This is a great office Christmas party outing or the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. Call 605.574-2222 today or purchase online!
How long is the train ride?
One hour, round trip; ½ hour each way. The Holiday Express travels to the North Pole (Oblivion) and back. It does not travel to Keystone.
Should I purchase tickets in advance?
Tickets sell quickly for all Holiday Express departures, so yes, purchase your tickets now!
Are the train cars heated?
Yes, they are heated, but not to a toasty warm. We encourage dressing in layers. If the temperature is cold outdoors, bring a blanket or two. The boarding area is outdoors, so dress accordingly.
Do you offer group rates?
We do not offer group rates for special events.
Where does the train depart from?
How can we be sure our group is seated together?
Holiday Express seating is assigned. When purchasing your tickets, purchase all tickets together and select the seats you prefer. Once selected or assigned, seat assignments cannot be changed. The earlier you purchase your tickets, the better the chance you will be seated together. All Holiday Express departures sell out.
How do we get our tickets?
The day of your ride, come to the Hill City Depot, give your last name, and your boarding passes will be printed that day. You do not need to bring your confirmation, just give your last name. Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure.
What are the seating arrangements?
Seating is assigned. In order to sit together, all passengers must be under ONE reservation. When making reservations online, you may select your own seats. Please ensure you have the final count of your party when making your reservation and selecting seat assignments. Seating assignments cannot be changed once selected or assigned. Guests who add on to a reservation at a later date are not guaranteed a seat with your party. Children 2 and under must be held on a lap, except on the First Class car where lap seats are not available. If you would like children 2 & under to have their own seat on a regular departure, or would like to bring their car seat, a child’s ticket must be purchased.
Can we wear our pajamas?
Absolutely! You are welcome to wear your pajamas or any festive attire you wish. Just be sure to dress warmly!
What other food and beverage options do you have?
Hot chocolate and sugar cookies are served in route. If you have dietary restrictions, please feel free to bring your own food and beverage on board. Wine by the glass, wine by the bottle, beer, hot cider and coffee are available for purchase in the depot as well as snacks that you are welcome to bring on board.
What if the weather is bad?
Please plan for the unexpected, South Dakota winter weather! The 1880 Train is not liable for road closures or delays. This event will run no matter the weather.
What happens at the North Pole?
Once the train arrives at the North Pole, Santa boards the Train and the diesel engine switches from the front to the back of the train. Once the engine is ready to go, the train heads back to Hill City with Santa on board. Passengers are able to see the North Pole buildings from the Train, but passengers do not deboard the train during this time. The stop at the North Pole takes less than 10 minutes.
When can we take pictures with Santa?
Santa visits with each child on the way back to Hill City from the North Pole. There will be time to take your own, free photos with Santa when he visits your train car. In the first class, Hilyo car, a dedicated Santa is available for photos the entire ride back to Hill City. Professional photos are available at the South Dakota State Railroad Museum, next to the Hill City Depot on the following dates and times:
- Nov 28 & 29: 10am – 6pm
- Dec 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, & 23: 11am – 6pm
There is a charge for these photos.
What is the difference between a regular ride and first class?
Guests who purchase a First Class ticket are seated in the more spacious, Hilyo caboose car. Each first class passenger receives unlimited hot chocolate with special holiday toppings, a keepsake campfire Holiday Express mug, sugar cookie, candy cane, special, first class gift from Santa, a dedicated Santa and Mrs. Claus and special entertainment. A children’s ticket must be purchased for all children (0-12). Since tables will be in use, there will not be space for laps. Only 38 First Class seats are available on designated departures.
Which dates offer the First Class option?
November 29 & 30, and December 21-24.
Will the after-Christmas rides be the same?
Yes, everything will be the same for the after Christmas rides. Santa & Mrs. Claus have agreed to come back after Christmas in order that they do not miss anyone who is in the area for the holidays. Santa will get a head start on what the children would like for Christmas in 2020!
For more detailed ticket and cancellation policy information, please refer to the information at right (on desktop) or below (on mobile).
