Member Blog
Q: Is seating assigned?
A: No, there is no assigned seating aboard the train. If you’re in a larger group, please keep your group together and notify one of the platform staff when you are lining up to board the train. The staff will ensure that your group is seated in the same area.
Q: What is the “Quiet Car?”
A: When you ride the train with Santa during the Happy Holiday Railway event, most of the cars in the train will feature an unforgettable light and music show. However, for those sensitive to flashing lights or loud sounds, we offer a “quiet car” as an alternative. This car is
Q: Where do I go to board the Happy Holiday Railway?
A: Happy Holiday Railway takes place at the Illinois Railway Museum in Union, IL. The address is: 7000 Olson Road, Union, IL 60180 Parking in the museum parking lot is free. Please plan to arrive at the museum 30-60 minutes before the time on your ticket so you have enough
Q: How long is the train ride?
A: The Happy Holiday Railway train ride is approximately 35-40 minutes long. During the trip you’ll meet Santa, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, and experience an unforgettable holiday-themed light and music show. There are no bathrooms aboard the train, but bathrooms are located at the boarding area inside the East
Q: What time does the train ride start?
A: The time on your ticket is the time your train departs from the East Union Depot, located at the north end of the museum grounds. You should arrive at the museum 30-60 minutes before the time on your ticket so you have enough time to park and make your
Q: How much are tickets?
A: For 2024, Happy Holiday Railway tickets are $25 each. Children who have not passed their second birthday are free and do not need a ticket. Memberships and other passes are not valid for admission to this event. In addition to the train ride, your ticket includes streetcar rides, train
Q: Can we get general admission tickets for Day Out With Thomas days?
A: No There are no general admission tickets for Day Out With Thomas days. Site only tickets will be available but these differ from general admission as GA allow you to ride whatever is running. Site only tickets include no rides aside from the streetcars.
Q: When does the museum close?
A: About 60-90 minutes after the last scheduled train.
Q: Can we buy tickets at the gate?
A: Yes, but no additional tickets are available for trips sold out online. All that will be available on site is what remains unsold online.
Q: Is the time on the ticket when we can enter the museum?
A: No, The time on the ticket is when the train will be departing the boarding area. If you have a later ticket, you are welcome and positively encouraged to come earlier and visit the various attractions before your ride.