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A Minnesota Christmas Train Ride In St. Paul!

Published: November 16, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Few heritage rail organizations in the United States have achieved the stature, professionalism, and national recognition of the Friends of the 261, custodians of one of America’s most famous operating steam locomotives—Milwaukee Road 4-8-4 No. 261.

Based in Minneapolis, the volunteer-driven group has spent more than three decades restoring, maintaining, and operating this magnificent machine, along with an impressive fleet of historic passenger cars. Their dedication has allowed thousands of passengers each year to experience first-class, mainline railroading at a level nearly unmatched in the preservation world.

While the organization is best known for its long-distance excursions across the upper Midwest, one of its most beloved traditions is a decidedly shorter but endlessly charming holiday offering: the North Pole Express, operated in partnership with the Minnesota Transportation Museum and hosted each Christmas season on the historic rails of the former Northern Pacific in St. Paul.

This family-focused event, built around nostalgia, steam power, and the simple joy of the holidays, has become a Twin Cities favorite. It draws visitors from across the region and stands as an excellent example of how historic railroads can connect with new generations through immersive, themed experiences.

Milwaukee Road 4-8-4 #261 steams south with an Amtrak special near Cambridge, Minnesota on May 12, 2013. Drew Jacksich photo.

Origins of the Friends of the 261

The story of the Friends of the 261 begins in the early 1990s, when Milwaukee Road No. 261—retired after a relatively short career in the 1950s—was on static display in Minneapolis. The locomotive had been well cared for, but a group of rail enthusiasts, preservationists, and volunteers recognized its potential for restoration and operation. Under the leadership of Steve Sandberg, whose family had deep ties to the Milwaukee Road, a formal organization was established with the goal of returning the engine to steam.

This was no small undertaking. Restoring a dormant locomotive to operating condition requires extraordinary financial resources, volunteer labor, mechanical expertise, and long-term commitment. Yet the group succeeded.

In 1993, the powerful 4-8-4 thundered back to life, quickly becoming one of the most prominent mainline steam locomotives in North America. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the Friends of the 261 operated numerous excursions over BNSF, Canadian Pacific, Amtrak, and various regional railroads, offering passengers an authentic taste of classic streamliner travel.

Beyond No. 261, the organization expanded its mission by acquiring and restoring a large fleet of Milwaukee Road, Santa Fe, and Canadian Pacific passenger cars. These include sleepers, lounges, coaches, and even fully restored first-class dome equipment. Many cars are certified for 90-mph mainline operation, giving the group one of the most versatile and historically authentic trainsets in the preservation field.

As the organization matured, its activities grew beyond long-distance steam operations. Public events, seasonal trains, fundraising activities, and partnerships with museums and other rail groups broadened its reach. Among these offerings, none has grown more popular—or more magical—than the North Pole Express.

A Holiday Tradition Begins

The North Pole Express began its life as a modest seasonal event hosted in partnership with the Minnesota Transportation Museum (MTM). MTM operates the historic Jackson Street Roundhouse in St. Paul, a preserved Northern Pacific facility that houses locomotives, rolling stock, interpretive displays, and restoration shops. It also maintains a short stretch of track used for museum train rides and seasonal operations.

The Friends of the 261 saw an opportunity not only to bring No. 261 back to St. Paul for holiday service, but also to connect families with the locomotive in a more intimate, up-close setting that differs from long-distance excursions. The result was a classic holiday steam experience built around storytelling, interactive characters, and a trip to a “North Pole” station complete with Santa Claus.

Since its debut, the event has grown into one of the most popular family holiday attractions in the Twin Cities. Tickets typically sell quickly, and many families return year after year to make the journey part of their seasonal traditions.

The Experience: Onboard the North Pole Express

Although the trip itself is short—usually just a few miles round-trip—the North Pole Express is designed to feel both immersive and festive from the moment passengers arrive.

A Steam-Powered Departure

One of the defining elements of the ride is the sight, sound, and scent of Milwaukee Road 261 at the head end. For many children, this is their first encounter with a real steam locomotive. The billowing smoke, gleaming running gear, and echoing whistle set a dramatic stage, instantly transporting guests into a nostalgic holiday atmosphere reminiscent of classic Christmas railroads.

Volunteers dressed as conductors, helpers, and North Pole characters greet passengers as they board restored vintage coaches. The Friends of the 261 fleet shines during these events, giving riders the opportunity to enjoy classic passenger railroading in climate-controlled comfort.

The Ride Itself

The short journey travels along MTM-operated trackage in St. Paul, typically running from the Jackson Street Roundhouse area to a festively decorated “North Pole” station set up along the line. Along the way, children enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas music, storytelling, and interactions with onboard performers. Volunteers frequently appear as classic holiday characters, enhancing the experience without overwhelming the historic authenticity.

Arrival at the North Pole

Upon reaching the North Pole station, the train comes to a stop beside a wintery holiday display. Families disembark to meet Santa Claus, pose for photographs, and receive small gifts such as bells or candy canes. The event is deliberately intimate—large enough to feel special but small enough that children receive individual attention from Santa and his helpers.

The stop is long enough for photos, exploration, and immersion before passengers reboard for the return trip to the roundhouse.

Return to the Jackson Street Roundhouse

Once back at the historic facility, families may explore the roundhouse, enjoy additional holiday activities, or view the museum’s exhibits. Many guests take advantage of the opportunity to stand close to No. 261 in steam, watch it simmer between trips, and appreciate the mechanical beauty of a mainline steam locomotive up close.

Community Impact and Volunteer Spirit

The North Pole Express owes much of its success to the hundreds of volunteers who staff the event each year. From conductors and car hosts to decorators, mechanics, and storytellers, the Friends of the 261 maintains one of the strongest volunteer communities in rail preservation.

These volunteers are core to the organization’s mission. Many have worked multiple decades on the 261’s restoration, maintenance, and excursions; others are younger enthusiasts who joined specifically because of the holiday trains. The event not only brings joy to visiting families but also fosters community among volunteers, encouraging new generations to participate in preservation.

Revenue from the North Pole Express also helps fund ongoing maintenance of the locomotive, passenger cars, and other restoration projects. In this way, the event serves both educational and financial roles—introducing visitors to the magic of steam railroading while sustaining the equipment that makes those experiences possible.

Why the North Pole Express Stands Out

Many heritage railroads across the country operate holiday-themed trains, but the Friends of the 261 version stands out for several reasons:

1. Authentic Mainline Steam

Very few holiday trains in the U.S. operate behind a large mainline steam locomotive. The sight of No. 261 in full holiday dress is unforgettable.

2. Historic Milwaukee Road Heritage

The Twin Cities were once a major hub of Milwaukee Road activity. For many visitors, the experience connects local history with holiday fun.

3. Professional, High-Quality Presentation

The Friends of the 261 take pride in producing polished, well-organized events. Their attention to detail—from décor to operations—helps create a seamless experience.

4. Educational Value

Children not only meet Santa but also learn firsthand about railroading, steam power, and regional history.

5. A Tradition With Heart

The North Pole Express feels personal, welcoming, and thoughtfully curated—an atmosphere that large commercial attractions often fail to capture.

A Bright Future for Holiday Steam

As the Friends of the 261 continue to grow their programs, the North Pole Express remains one of their signature offerings. It serves as both an entry point for families discovering historic railroading and a heartfelt seasonal tradition for longtime fans. With its blend of nostalgia, steam power, and Christmas spirit, the event stands as one of Minnesota’s most charming holiday experiences—and a shining example of the enduring magic of rail preservation.  To learn more about the Friends' holiday train ride please click here to visit their website.