Experience Christmas Magic in Michigan: The Real Polar Express

I have a confession: I've lived in Michigan my entire life, and I had NO IDEA this magical gem was sitting right under my frostbitten nose. It was a classic " Where has this been my whole life?" moment as I stood, wide-eyed, just feet away from a true movie legend. Never in a million years did I think I'd see it, but there it was: The Real Polar Express (referred to as The North Pole Express, so as not to upset Tom Hanks) 1225 live and in living color in Ashley, Michigan's town square, and it's back again this Christmas.

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Suppose you've seen the movie The Polar Express (which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024), featuring Tom Hanks in many roles. In that case, you know this animated adventure is about finding your Christmas spirit, and Ashley has captured that magic in wonderful fashion.

Ashley, Michigan: Christmas in the Most Unexpected Place

Standing smack dab in the middle of Ashley, Michigan—a tiny town that feels like it got lost on its way to the Upper Peninsula—I was surrounded by families, eager kids, and wooden reindeer that were holding the line between us and the tracks as we all waited to lay eyes upon the iron 1225 steam engine.

Before I saw it, I heard it. First came the whistle, a sound that instantly whisks you back to your childhood when you were excited to see a train, not frustrated because you were caught at a railroad crossing on your way to work. Then, I caught a glimpse of the steam rising above the treeline. Once the gigantic engine finally came into view, I was awestruck and starstruck at the same time.

Step Into Michigan History and Christmas Magic

The fully restored 1225 steam engine is the real deal. Built in 1941 in Lima, Ohio, this massive locomotive stands nearly 16 feet tall and weighs around 401 tons, according to the Steam Railroading Institute. Every inch of it looks like it's driving right off the screen and into Ashley, Michigan. The kicker? You can buy a ticket to ride.

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This magical ride is about a 5-hour round trip that departs from Owosso, Michigan, and arrives an hour later for a two-hour excursion in Ashley. They've transformed the village into an immersive North Pole experience, including the arrival of Santa Claus and the first gift of Christmas. For more information or to book a seat on the 1225, visit the Steam Railroading Institute's website or click here.