Iowa Christmas Train Rides In Boone!
Published: December 6, 2025
By: Adam Burns
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone, Iowa, is one of the Midwest’s classic heritage railroads—part living museum, part working short line, and part all-season excursion line that shows off the rugged beauty of the Des Moines River Valley.
Operated by the non-profit Iowa Railroad Historical Society, it combines an impressive collection of equipment with memorable trips over some of Iowa’s most dramatic railroad scenery, including the 156-foot-high Bass Point Creek High Bridge.
Each year, tens of thousands of visitors ride its trains: from classic daytime excursions to dinner trains, rail bikes, and themed events. And when the holidays arrive, the railroad transforms for its popular Santa Express, a Christmas-season tradition that carries families “from Boone to the North Pole” and back again.
Background and history
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad began in 1983, when the Iowa Railroad Historical Society acquired a portion of the former Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern Railway (FDDM&S), an interurban and freight line that once linked coal mines, farm communities, and industrial customers across central Iowa. When the FDDM&S shut down, local rail enthusiasts and community leaders stepped in to save a key stretch of its route, preserving not only the track but also its dramatic bridges and grade.
From the start, the group’s mission was educational as much as recreational. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Iowa Railroad Historical Society set out to interpret the region’s railroading heritage, using operating trains, artifacts, and exhibits to tell the story. Volunteers—many of them lifelong railroaders or steam enthusiasts—play an essential role, staffing everything from locomotives and train crews to the gift shop and ticket office. The railroad emphasizes that without its volunteers, it “simply would not be able to exist.”
Over time, the operation expanded from modest excursions to a full-fledged railroad and museum complex. Today, the Boone & Scenic Valley owns about 11 miles of standard-gauge track and even handles some freight service within Boone, interchanging with Union Pacific. That dual role—as both tourist line and short line—gives the property a sense of authenticity: this is a place where trains are not just museum pieces, but still part of the working railroad world.
The James H. Andrew Railroad Museum
Anchoring the Boone depot complex is the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum and History Center, a 9,000-square-foot facility that showcases railroading across Iowa and the Midwest. Inside, guests find a theater, archives, a research library, and exhibits featuring everything from railroad china and lanterns to scale models and historical photographs.
Admission to the museum is included with most excursion tickets, making it an easy add-on to any trip. For serious students of railroad history, the museum’s collections and library offer a deeper dive, while casual visitors appreciate the interpretive displays that help put their ride into context—explaining how railroads shaped farming, industry, and everyday life in Iowa.
Signature excursions and experiences
The Boone & Scenic Valley is best known for its Fraser Train, the classic round-trip excursion westward from Boone to the former coal-mining town of Fraser. This roughly 1 hour 45-minute trip follows the old FDDM&S right-of-way through rolling countryside and the wooded Des Moines River Valley, crossing both the Des Moines River Bridge and the towering 156-foot Bass Point Creek High Bridge—one of the highest railroad bridges in the state.
Passengers can choose from open-air cars, climate-controlled coaches, and sometimes caboose or premium seating. On select dates, steam power adds extra drama to the crossing of the high bridge, making for unforgettable photographs.
Beyond the Fraser Train, the railroad offers a wide range of themed excursions:
- Wolf Picnic and Lunch Trains: Daytime trips with simple meals served onboard, ideal for families and groups.
- Wolf Dinner Train and Sunset BBQ Dinner Train: Evening excursions featuring full meal service as the train winds through the valley at golden hour, crossing the high bridge in fading light.
- Special events: Over the years, the line has hosted “Thomas the Tank Engine” events, photo charters, rail-bike experiences, and other themed trips that often sell out in advance.
The combination of dramatic scenery, well-restored equipment, and varied ride options has made B&SV a destination not just for Iowans, but for railfans and families from across the Midwest.
Holiday tradition: the Santa Express
As popular as the summer and fall excursions are, many guests first discover the railroad through its Santa Express, a Christmas-season ride that has grown into an annual tradition for families throughout central Iowa.
Typically operating on weekends between late November and just before Christmas, the Santa Express departs from the Boone depot and travels through the Des Moines River Valley to a “North Pole” scene, then returns to town. The trip usually lasts around 75 to 90 minutes, depending on how long it takes Santa to visit each car.
What The Train Includes
A ride on the Santa Express is designed to be immersive and kid-friendly. Promotional materials and regional tourism listings highlight several key elements:
- Journey to the North Pole: The train heads west from Boone, crossing the Bass Point Creek High Bridge and the Des Moines River Bridge on its way to a decorated “North Pole” scene. For many guests, the moment the train edges onto the high bridge—sometimes in darkness, with valley lights below—is a highlight of the trip.
- Visit from Santa: During the trip, Santa moves through the train, stopping at each seat to greet children, pose for photos, and hand out a small gift. Parents often appreciate that they don’t have to wait in a separate line; the visit comes to them.
- Treats and storytelling: Volunteers distribute cookies and drinks, and a story—often themed around the train’s trip to the North Pole—is read aloud, adding to the cozy, onboard atmosphere.
- Decorated coaches and depot: Both the depot and coaches are trimmed with holiday decorations and lights, creating a festive backdrop for family photos before and after the ride.
Seating options usually mirror those on other excursions: classic coach, first-class coach, and table seating, each priced accordingly. Recent seasons have listed classic coach around the high-20-dollar range per person, with higher fares for upgraded seating; as always, guests should check the railroad’s site for the most current pricing and availability.
Why it’s so popular
Several factors make train stand out among holiday train rides:
- Authentic railroad setting: This is not a temporary track in a city park; the train runs over the same substantial railroad used for summer excursions, complete with high bridges and valley scenery.
- Volunteer-driven warmth: Many of the onboard staff and car hosts are long-time volunteers who return year after year. Reviews often mention their friendliness and enthusiasm, which gives the event a community feel rather than a packaged attraction vibe.
- Kid-focused experience: The ride length, onboard activities, and Santa’s visit are all geared toward families with children. It’s long enough to feel like a real journey, but not so long that younger kids get restless.
- Scenery in any season: In daylight, guests get wide views of the winter landscape; after dark, the river valley and bridges take on a different, almost mysterious character. Either way, the setting elevates the experience beyond a simple “mall Santa” visit.
A railroad where history and holiday magic meet
Whether you experience it on a sun-splashed summer afternoon or a frosty December evening, the Boone & Scenic Valley offers a powerful combination of authentic railroad heritage and scenic beauty. Its excursions carry you over one of Iowa’s tallest rail bridges, through a valley shaped by coal mining and agriculture, and into a living chapter of Midwestern railroading.
During the Christmas season, the Santa Express adds another layer of charm—turning classic coaches and historic bridges into the setting for families’ holiday memories. To learn more and purchasing tickets for this holiday favorite please click here to visit the B&SV's website.
Recent Articles
-
California -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:56 AM
While the Niles Canyon Railway is known for family-friendly weekend excursions and seasonal classics, one of its most popular grown-up offerings is Beer on the Rails. -
New Jersey -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:53 AM
On select dates, the Woodstown Central Railroad pairs its scenery with one of South Jersey’s most enjoyable grown-up itineraries: the Brew to Brew Train. -
Georgia -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:52 AM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
North Carolina -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:31 AM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Michigan -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:28 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados. -
Indiana -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:26 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure. -
Illinois -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:19 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 09, 26 10:05 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
East Broad Top Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 09, 26 12:09 AM
The East Broad Top Railroad at Rockhill Furnace / Orbisonia, Pennsylvania is not a mass-market “leaf special” brand so much as a living industrial-history railroad whose public calendar runs deep into… -
Strasburg Rail Road Whiskey on the Rails (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:28 PM
Whiskey on the Rails is the Strasburg Rail Road’s intimate adult spirits product: a roughly 45-minute to one-hour steam ride through Lancaster County Amish Country aboard historic First Class Dining C… -
Indiana Whiskey & Bourbon Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:53 PM
Among IRE’s most talked-about offerings is the Wine & Whiskey Train—an adults-only, evening-style trip that leans into the best parts of classic rail travel: atmosphere, comfort, and a… -
Minnesota -- Beer Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 01:04 PM
Among the North Shore Scenic Railroad's special events, one consistently rises to the top for adults looking for a lively night out: the Beer Tasting Train. -
New Mexico Whiskey Tasting Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:52 PM
New Mexico’s high-desert rail scene has a clear spirits star: Sky Railway in Santa Fe, whose special-event calendar includes Whiskey on the Rails—a 21+ pop-up pairing Santa Fe Spirits with a round tri… -
Connecticut -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ &a… -
Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:44 AM
The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad—marketed as the Duluth River Train—offers a volunteer-run, roughly two-hour narrated round trip along the St. Louis River estuary from West Duluth. -
Coopersville & Marne Railway Fall / Pumpkin Trains (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:19 AM
The Friends of the Coopersville & Marne Railway run West Michigan’s best-known autumn family train: the Pumpkin Train on October weekends, a roughly 90-minute Coopersville–Marne round trip with costum… -
Cape Cod Central Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 11:12 AM
The Cape Cod Central Railroad is southeastern Massachusetts’s main tourist-and-dining rail product: narrated scenic trains and multi-course dining trains from Hyannis, West Barnstable, and Buzzards Ba… -
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:39 AM
The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone, Iowa is the Midwest’s high-bridge foliage train: Fraser excursions cross the towering Bass Point Creek High Bridge through the Des Moines River valley as h… -
Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 08, 26 10:18 AM
The Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Train Ride from its Unity, Maine venue: roughly a one-hour round trip through Waldo County woods and farmland when birch, maple… -
Pennsylvania -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:06 AM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
Alabama -- Wild West -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:04 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
South Dakota -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:02 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad. -
West Virginia -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 10:00 AM
West Virginia, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers visitors a unique way to explore its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards: wine tasting trains. -
New Mexico -- Murder Mystery -- Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:58 AM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails. -
Maryland -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 08, 26 09:55 AM
Maryland is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also home to some of the most thrilling murder mystery dinner trains? -
Whitewater Valley Railroad Fall Foliage Flyer (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:27 AM
The Whitewater Valley Railroad markets a dedicated Fall Foliage Flyer each October: a five-hour weekday round trip from Connersville, Indiana to historic Metamora with a two-hour layover for shopping… -
North Shore Scenic Railroad Fall Colors Train Rides (2026)
Aug 08, 26 08:17 AM
The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota—operated with the Lake Superior Railroad Museum from historic Duluth Union Depot—markets the Two Harbors Fall Colors Tour as its headline autumn pr… -
Leadville Railroad Fall Train Rides (2026)
Aug 07, 26 11:55 PM
The Leadville Railroad (formerly marketed as the Leadville, Colorado & Southern) runs from historic Leadville, Colorado—one of the highest incorporated cities in the U.S.—into the surrounding Rockies… -
FWRHS Acquires Nickel Plate Road Business Car No. 1
Aug 07, 26 11:48 PM
The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (FWRHS) has acquired Nickel Plate Road business car No. 1, a 1929 Pullman built for the Van Sweringen brothers’ rail empire. -
Santa Fe Bicentennial SD45-2 No. 5704 To Attend America 250 Event
Aug 07, 26 11:44 PM
The Southern California Railway Museum’s restored Santa Fe Railway SD45-2 No. 5704 is eastbound for the America 250 Locomotive Celebration at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, set f… -
IRM Repaints Ingersoll-Rand 91 in 1976 Bicentennial Livery
Aug 07, 26 11:25 PM
Illinois Railway Museum Diesel Department volunteers have cosmetically restored the museum’s oldest diesel locomotive, Ingersoll-Rand No. 91, to the red, white, and blue scheme it wore for the 1976 Un… -
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 10:22 PM
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville, Ohio is the Hocking Hills region’s dedicated autumn rail product. Each year the railroad markets October Fall Foliage trains—roughly two-hour round tr… -
Delaware & Ulster Railroad Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 07:12 PM
The Delaware & Ulster Railroad (DURR) is back as a Catskills heritage operation from Arkville, New York, marketing scenic rides every Saturday through fall 2026. -
Durango & Silverton Fall Foliage Train Ride (2026)
Aug 07, 26 03:19 PM
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is southwest Colorado’s bucket-list autumn steam (and diesel) ride: a climb from Durango through the Animas Canyon toward historic Silverton, with San Jua… -
Michigan -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:51 PM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration. -
Virginia Scenic Sip & Savor Express (2026): Wine & Cider Tasting Train
Aug 07, 26 12:42 PM
The Sip & Savor Express is the Virginia Scenic Railway’s flagship tasting product: a about three-hour guided wine or cider experience with artisan charcuterie, departing from either Louisa or Staunton… -
Virginia -- Murder Mystery -- Dinner Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:39 PM
Among the state's railroad attractions, murder mystery dinner trains stand out as a captivating fusion of theatrical entertainment, fine dining, and scenic travel. -
Utah -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:32 PM
Utah, a state widely celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, is also gaining recognition for an unexpected yet delightful experience: wine tasting trains. -
Vermont -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:25 PM
Known for its stunning green mountains, charming small towns, and burgeoning wine industry, Vermont offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends all these elements: wine tasting train rides. -
North Carolina -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 07, 26 12:21 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Western Maryland Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:56 PM
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) in Cumberland, Maryland runs one of the Mid-Atlantic’s best-known Murder Mystery Dinner Trains: a roughly three-hour, 21+ evening with dinner and interactiv… -
Warren County Winery Train Phillipsburg NJ (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:37 PM
The Warren County Winery Train, operated by Delaware River Railroad Excursions from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, is a high-frequency wine tasting product. -
River Fox Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 02:19 PM
The River Fox Train (Sacramento RiverTrain operations) in West Sacramento, California runs a Murder Mystery Dinner Train for ages 21+: dinner and dessert plus interactive theater as characters scheme… -
Monticello Railway Museum Murder Mystery Dinner Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 01:33 PM
The Monticello Railway Museum in Monticello, Illinois hosts the state’s main Murder Mystery Dinner Train: an approximately two-hour evening with a three-course meal prepared by Michaels’ Catering of C… -
Cumbres & Toltec Fall Colors Train Ride (2026): Aspens, Pass & Tips
Aug 06, 26 12:45 PM
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad straddles the Colorado–New Mexico line between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado—a steam-powered narrow-gauge climb over Cumbres Pass through aspen forests… -
LM&M Murder Mystery Train Lebanon OH (2026)
Aug 06, 26 12:04 PM
The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad (LM&M) in Lebanon, Ohio offers a Murder Mystery Train built for Cincinnati/Dayton day-trippers: about three hours total, 21+, with interactive theater from The Murder… -
Heber Valley Wine & Cheese Tasting Train (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:58 AM
The Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah markets a Wine & Cheese Tasting Train as its signature adult tasting product: a roughly 90-minute evening ride with a guided five-course wine tasting and… -
Backcountry Wine Train, Campo CA (2026)
Aug 06, 26 11:13 AM
The Backcountry Wine Train is the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum’s adults-oriented wine tasting excursion from the Campo Railroad Museum in San Diego County’s East County high desert. -
Rhode Island -- Wine Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 10:19 AM
It may the smallest state but Rhode Island is home to a unique and upscale train excursion offering wide aboard their trips, the Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad. -
Maryland -- Whiskey Tasting -- Train Rides
Aug 06, 26 09:46 AM
You can enjoy whiskey tasting by train at just one location in Maryland, the popular Western Maryland Scenic Railroad based in Cumberland.
