One of my favorite holiday movies is The Polar Express. It is based off the book The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. If you’ve ever watched the movie you know how well done it is. Everything from the sound effects to the 6 character voices played by Tom Hanks.
Families from all over are attending Polar Express events during the holidays. But if you live in southeastern Michigan, you have the opportunity to ride the “REAL” Polar Express!
Locomotive Steam Engine 1225 from Owosso’s Steam Railroading Institute hosts a North Pole Express tour every weekend during the month of December. Steam Engine 1225 is the train they use in the movie The Polar Express. Everything from the sound effects to the numbers 1225 are based off of this train. It’s truly an unforgettable experience and a great holiday tradition.
The event starts off in Owosso where you get your souvenir tickets and board the train. The train then takes off on an hour ride north to the small town of Ashley, Michigan. It is in Ashley that you meet Santa and one lucky child will receive the first gift of Christmas.
Visiting Ashley is so much fun! You will find Elves wandering the little town and of course you can get in line to tell Santa what you want for Christmas. There are hot soup kitchens and even candy cane makers! Best of all, you can get a family picture in front of the train!
If you are looking for a fun and memorable family event be sure to check for tickets early each year because this event sells out fast! Mark your calendars now! I purchased our tickets in October. You will find a morning tour and an evening tour. Be sure to dress warm and bring your camera!
Author: Danielle Andresen
Teacher by day, mom and wife both day and night, Danielle is the voice behind Suburbia Mom where she writes about her experiences in and around Detroit.
Teacher by day, mom and wife both day and night, Danielle is the voice behind Suburbia Mom where she writes about her experiences in and around Detroit.