Back for its 11th annual run, the Kansas City Southern Holiday Express train brings Santa Claus and his elves to Union Station.
The KCS Holiday Express is unlike any other train in the world, with its smiling engine “Rudy,” gingerbread boxcar, flatcar carrying Santa’s sleigh, reindeer and a miniature village, snow covered stall filled with model train displays, the elves’ workshop and even a little red caboose.
Dates:
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 16-18
Hours:
Friday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission:
Free. However, donations are always welcome to Union Station.
Do I need a ticket?
Free advance reservations will be available beginning Tuesday, December 13. However, a reservation is NOT required to tour the train or meet Santa.
• If you made an advance reservation online, present your printed ticket at the Holiday Express entrance, inside Union Station.
• If you made a reservation and do NOT have a printed ticket, pick your ticket up at Will Call at the Union Station Ticket Counter.
• If you walk in with no reservation, you may proceed directly to the Holiday Express entrance, inside Union Station for assistance.
Where do I park and is there a parking fee?
Please park in the West Yards Parking Garage, located on the west side of Union Station.
Where do I board the train?
You will board the train inside Union Station. Enter the building across from the parking garage. Once inside the double set of doors, you’ll see Ticketing on your right. This is where Will Call is also located, if you made advance reservations and do not have a printed ticket. If you do not have a reservation and NEED a ticket, head straight to the Holiday Express entrance gate inside Union Station for assistance.
Then, proceed up the escalator to the Grand Hall on Level One. At the clock, turn left and head down Sprint Festival Plaza. There you will find the entrance gate for the Holiday Express.
You will go through the KC Rail Experience and board the Holiday Express from there.
How long does it take to tour the train?
It takes about 15 minutes to go through the train. Parents are welcome to bring a camera and take photos inside the train.
Is the Holiday Express handicapped accessible?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to bring a wheel chair on board the train. However, kindly notify one of our elves of your circumstances and they will help you board the train.
Is there food and drink available to purchase?
Yes, Harvey’s at Union Station is open for breakfast and lunch. Harvey’s will also operate concession carts in Sprint Festival Plaza with food and drinks during the Holiday Express visit. Rocky Mountain Chocolate and Parisi Cafe will be open as well with refreshments and treats throughout the Holiday Express visit.
