If you want an affordable holiday day trip in Indiana, the Christmas Caboose in New Haven delivers pure holiday magic for $10 per person. Children three and under ride free, making it one of the most budget-friendly holiday outings around.
Related Article: 9 Best Holiday Train Rides in Indiana
The experience is simple and sweet. Park and check in at Santa’s Workshop, 15808 Edgerton Road, New Haven, IN 46774, then climb aboard a heated, historic red caboose pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive for a 20-minute ride with Santa. The short format is perfect for younger kids—and the price means you can start a tradition without stress.
This year’s rides run November 21, 22, 23, 29, and 30. They sell out fast every year, so booking early is essential. Buy tickets: Christmas Caboose – Official Booking Page
Related Article: Reindeer Ride Express: A Festive Holiday Experience for Train Lovers
What to know before you go:
Tickets are online only and your confirmation arrives by email (check spam if needed). The historic cabooses are not ADA-accessible. If you’re riding with friends or family, buy all tickets in one reservation to stay together. Refunds or exchanges are available 30+ days before travel; processing fees apply.
Related Page: Amazing Train Rides in Indiana
Want to go all out? Private charters available
Make it extra special with a private evening charter: $500 for up to 15 guests on an approximately 45-minute ride. Expect holiday lights, a real coal stove, and snacks and refreshments included. Charter perk: leave wrapped gifts with the station agent at check-in and Santa will deliver them during the ride. (Gift delivery is charters only, not the public 20-minute trips.)
For a Longer Ride: Indiana Christmas Train
If you want more time on the rails—or need ADA seating—choose the Indiana Christmas Train in Pleasant Lake, Indiana. This 1.5-hour roundtrip includes Santa on every departure, live music, and cozy holiday décor as the train rolls through the winter countryside.
Schedule & location
- Runs December 5–7, 12–14, 19–22
- Fridays: 6:45 PM
- Saturdays: 12:00 PM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:45 PM
- Sundays: 12:00 PM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM
- Mon, Dec 23: 4:30 PM and 6:45 PM
Parking: 1525 Main Street, Pleasant Lake, IN 46779
Boarding & ADA parking: 1469 West Main Street, Pleasant Lake, IN
Ticket options
Deluxe Coach typically $35–$45 (or $135 Family Package). Adults can upgrade to Christmas Cocktail Class (21+; cash bar) or go all-in with First Class lounges/tables, Private Suites, or Pullman options. First Class and above include seasonal refreshments, holiday treats, and a commemorative gift. Children three and under ride free in Deluxe Coach if they don’t occupy a seat, and ADA seating is available in Deluxe Coach.
Buy tickets & see schedules: Indiana Christmas Train – Official Page
Kids can enjoy an onboard holiday scavenger hunt, and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee serves hot chocolate and seasonal drinks at the station. Tickets typically go on sale August 20 at 6:00 PM, with member presales August 19. Popular dates disappear quickly—join the mailing list or waitlist and book early.
Good to know: Proceeds support the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society, the volunteer-run group that keeps these historic trains running year after year.
Operated by the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
Both the Christmas Caboose and the Indiana Christmas Train are part of the Indiana Rail Experience, operated by the volunteers of the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (FWRHS). Your tickets help preserve historic rail equipment and support ongoing community programs—so you’re making a holiday memory and doing good at the same time.
