As the holiday season approaches, we are excited to celebrate and make cherished memories with our families. For many, holiday train rides offer the perfect blend of festive fun, nostalgia, and wonder. From immersive Christmas train rides to exciting Santa train rides, these seasonal journeys uniquely bring the spirit of the holidays to life.
In this guide, we’ve gathered some of the best Christmas and Santa train rides across Northern Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Find all of the details on dates, durations, and pricing to help you plan your perfect holiday adventure.
So, get ready to step aboard, sip hot cocoa, and let the season’s magic transport you!
Black Santa Train Experience at the Strasburg Rail Road
Christmas Train Rides in Virginia
Santa Train in Alexandria
The Santa Train in Alexandria offers a festive holiday experience aboard the Virginia Railway Express, organized by Whistle Stop Hobbies. Passengers embark on a round-trip journey from Alexandria’s King Street Station to Old Town Manassas, accompanied by Santa and Mrs. Claus, who greet children with special holiday treats. Upon arrival in Manassas, guests enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a Storytime session, followed by a Q&A with Santa on the station platform. The entire excursion lasts approximately three hours, providing a memorable holiday outing for families.
Key Details:
Address: King Street Station, 1900 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22301
Dates: December 2, 9, 16, and 19, 2024
Duration: Approximately 3 hours (1:30 PM departure, 4:30 PM return)
Cost: $29.99 per person (tickets have to be purchased in person at Whistle Stop Hobbies)
Website: Whistle Stop Hobbies
Buy your tickets in person at Whistle Stop Hobbies as as its require for all ticket sales. Each participant, including infants, requires a ticket. The train departs promptly at 1:30 PM from King Street Station and returns at 4:30 PM. During the stop in Manassas, guests will have approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy the planned activities.
Related Post: 94 FREE Holiday Things to do in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia
White Modern Video Travel Inspiration Pinterest Pin by yatzuri thomasVRE Santa Train Ride
The VRE Santa Train Experience is a magical one-day holiday event on December 14, 2024! Tickets go on sale Monday, December 2 (10am-12pm) at the Woodbridge, Manassas, Spotsylvania, and Fredericksburg Visitor Center. Online tickets will be on sale on Tuesday, December 3 (10am) via Eventbrite (until sold out). All passengers, regardless of age, require a ticket!
Click here to buy your ticket online and set up a reminder.
Key Details:
Address: King Street Station, 1900 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22301
Dates: December 14, 2024
Duration: 1 hour
Cost: $5 (in-person purchase) and $6 (online purchase)
Website: Vre.org
Holiday Train Rides in West Virginia
The North Pole Express at the Potomac Eagle
The North Pole Express at the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad offers a magical holiday experience for families. This 75-minute train ride features storytelling, caroling, and a visit from Santa Claus, who presents a special gift to each child. Passengers can enjoy milk and Mrs. Claus’ famous cookies during the journey. The train travels through scenic landscapes adorned with festive lights, culminating in a stop at the North Pole, where Santa and his elves greet passengers. After the ride, guests can explore the Christmas Event Barn, which includes activities like writing letters to Santa, a petting farm, and photo opportunities.
Key Details:
Address: 149 Eagle Dr., Romney, WV 26757
Dates: November 30 – December 22, 2024
Duration: 75 minutes
Cost:
First Class:
Adults (17+): $67 Children (2-16): $57 Lap Children (0-23 months): Free
Standard Coach:
Adults (17+): $57 Children (2-16): $47
Lap Children (0-23 months): Free
Website: Potomac Eagle
Before boarding the North Pole Express, please visit the restrooms or porta-potties at the station! Onboard restrooms are unavailable during excursions.
Santa Train Rides in Maryland
Holly Trolleyfest
The National Capital Trolley Museum in Colesville, Maryland proudly hosts Holly TrolleyFest, an annual holiday extravaganza! Visitors can enjoy a festive ride on historic streetcars through a mile-long woodland track, with Santa Claus on board to greet passengers. The museum also features a holiday model railroad display, children’s crafts, photo opportunities, and seasonal refreshments like hot chocolate and cookies.
Key Details:
Address: 1313 Bonifant Rd., Colesville, MD 20905
Dates: Weekends from November 30 to December 22, 2024, plus Friday, December 20
Duration: Museum hours are from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM; trolley rides are approximately 20 minutes
Cost:
Adults (18-64): $12.75
Children (2-17) and Seniors (65+): $10.75
Website: D.C. Trolley
Reserve your spot now! Book tickets online starting November 1, 2024, as reservations are mandatory for this event. Each ticket includes one trolley ride, and additional activities are available throughout the museum. Please note that some trolley rides may not feature Santa Claus; these specific times will be indicated during the reservation process.
The Polar Express
The B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore, Maryland, offers an immersive experience of “The Polar Express™ Train Ride,” bringing the beloved holiday story to life. Wear your coziest pajamas and join the festive fun! Embark on a magical journey featuring a live “Hot Chocolate” song and dance performance, followed by a thrilling train ride where Santa gifts you the First Gift of Christmas – a shimmering silver sleigh bell. Upon arrival at the North Pole, guests can enjoy crafts, s’mores, shopping for themed goodies, and photos with Santa.
Key Details:
Address: 901 West Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21223
Dates: November 29-30 & December 1, 6-8, 12-15 & 18-22, 2024
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost:
Gold:
Booth (for 4): $460 Adult Individual Seat: $110 Child Individual Seat: $100
Silver:
Quad Bench Seats (for 4): $360
Bronze:
Adult Individual Seat: $80 Child Individual Seat: $70
10% discount available for B&O Members
Website: Borail
Buy tickets in advance for all attendees aged 2 and up! Note that children under 2 join for free, but must sit on a lap. For mobility convenience, choose Bronze tickets. Dress wisely, as the event occurs rain or shine!
The Polar Express
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland, Maryland, offers a magical holiday experience with “The Polar Express™ Train Ride.” Inspired by the beloved story, this 60-minute journey transports families to the “North Pole,” featuring onboard readings of the classic tale, hot chocolate, cookies, and a special visit from Santa Claus, who presents each child with a silver sleigh bell. Passengers are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas to fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.
Key Details:
Address: 13 Canal Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2024
Duration: 1 hour
Cost:
Coach Class: $50 per person Polar
Table Class (4-Top): $305 (4 seats)
Polar Table Class (2-Top): $153 (2 seats)
Polar Lounge Class: $90 per person Polar
First Class (4-Top): $375 (4 seats)
Polar Dome Class (4-Top): $535 (4 seats)
Website: WMSR
Purchase your tickets now through the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s website! Arrive 40-45 minutes early to ensure smooth parking, ticket pickup, and boarding. Enjoy a comfortable ride on our climate-controlled train, complete with onboard restrooms!
Walkersville Southern Railroad Santa Train
The Walkersville Southern Railroad’s Santa Train offers a festive holiday experience for families. Passengers embark on a scenic 70-minute journey through the picturesque Maryland countryside aboard a vintage train adorned with holiday decorations. During the ride, Santa Claus visits each child, presenting a small gift and posing for photos. The event also features Christmas music and light refreshments, creating a joyful atmosphere for all ages.
Key Details:
Address: 34 West Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville, MD 21793
Dates: November 29 – December 22, 2024
Duration: Approximately 70 minutes
Cost:
Coach Class:
Adults (13+): $27 Seniors (55+): $26 Children (2-12): $25
Parlor Car (All Ages 2+): $50 Private Caboose (up to 15 riders): $450 Private Caboose XL (up to 20 riders): $550
Lounge Car (up to 20 riders): $800
Website: WSRR
Reservations are recommended, as these popular excursions often sell out. Tickets can be purchased online through the Walkersville Southern Railroad’s official website. It’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Holiday Train Rides in Pennsylvania
Santa’s Paradise Express at Strasburg Rail Road
Santa’s Paradise Express at the Strasburg Rail Road is a cherished holiday tradition that has delighted families since 1959. This 45-minute steam train journey through Pennsylvania’s picturesque Amish Country features a special visit from Santa Claus, who greets passengers and presents a small gift to children aged 11 and under. This year they have a Black Santa onboard, so if you decided to make the trip. We hope you get to see him too.
Key Details:
Address: 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572
Dates: November 16 – December 24, 2024
Duration: 45 minutes
Costs:
Coach Class:
Adults (12+): $29 Children (2-11): $19 Infants (0-1): Free
First Class:
Adults (12+): $54 Children (2-11): $44 Infants (0-1): Free
Dining Car:
Adults (12+): $39 Children (2-11): $29 Infants (0-1): Free
Brunch Experience:
Adults (12+): $60 Children (2-11): $50 Infants (0-1): Free
Club Car (Private Charter for 8-12 people): $695
Website: Strasburg Railroad
Tickets can be purchased online through the Strasburg Rail Road’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Night Before Christmas at Strasburg Rail Road
The “Night Before Christmas” train ride at Strasburg Rail Road offers a nostalgic holiday experience, bringing Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem to life aboard a historic steam train. Passengers are treated to a live reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by a professional performer in each car, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. The journey includes complimentary milk and cookies for all guests, enhancing the holiday spirit. While Santa may make a surprise appearance at the end of the ride, this experience focuses on the storytelling aspect of Christmas Eve.
Key Details:
Address: 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572
Dates: December 7 – 23, 2024
Duration: 1 hour
Cost:
Coach Car:
Adults (12+): $39 Children (1-11): $29 Infants (under 1):
Free First Class Cars:
Parlor Car (seats up to 30): $54 per person
Lounge Car (seats up to 22): $54 per person
Private Charter options availabl
Club Car (Private Charter for up to 10 people): $695
Website: Strasburg Railroad
Tickets can be purchased online through the Strasburg Rail Road’s official website. It’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Weekday Santa Clauses Limited Train Rides at Strasburg Rail Road
The “Santa Claus Limited” at Strasburg Rail Road offers a relaxed, 45-minute steam train journey through Pennsylvania’s Amish Country. During the ride, Santa Claus visits each car, greeting passengers and spreading holiday cheer. The historic 100-year-old train cars are adorned with festive decorations and heated by authentic pot-bellied stoves, creating a cozy atmosphere complemented by holiday music. This experience provides a charming way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Key Details:
Address: 301 Gap Road, Ronks, PA 17572
Dates: December 2 – 6, 9 – 13, and 16 – 20, 2024
Duration: 45 minutes
Costs:
Coach Car:
Adults (12+): $25 Children (2-11): $15 Infants (0-1): Free
First Class:
Adults (12+): $40 Children (2-11): $30
Infants (0-1): Free
Website: Strasburg Railroal
Tickets can be purchased online through the Strasburg Rail Road’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
West Chester Railroad Santa Express
The West Chester Railroad’s Santa Express offers a festive 75-minute journey through the scenic Chester Creek Valley aboard a heated, decorated train. Passengers are greeted by Santa Claus at the Market Street Station and enjoy live entertainment from Greg Wright and friends during the ride. Santa visits each passenger, making it a memorable holiday experience for families.
Key Details:
Address: 230 East Market St., West Chester, PA 19380
Dates: November 23, 24, 29, 30; December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 2024
Duration: 75 minutes
Cost:
Unreserved Coach Seats:
Adults: $40 Children (ages 2-12): $30 Toddlers (9 months – 23 months): $15 Infants (under 9 months): Free
Reserved Table Car Seats:
Adults: $65 Children (ages 2-12): $55 Toddlers (9 months – 23 months): $25
Infants (under 9 months): Free
Website: WC Railroad
Tickets can be purchased online through the West Chester Railroad’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Christmas Elf Express at Northern Central Railway
The Christmas Elf Express at Northern Central Railway offers an interactive holiday adventure for families. As Santa’s elves prepare for Christmas, mischievous elf Finnegan Frost disrupts their festivities by scattering pieces of the “good-elf-o-matic” machine throughout the train. Passengers are invited to assist the elves by locating and concealing these pieces during the journey. The 1-hour train ride features festive decorations and holiday music, creating a joyful atmosphere. At the conclusion, guests gather the found pieces to help repair the machine and restore Christmas cheer.
Key Details:
Address: 117 N. Front Street, New Freedom, PA 17349
Dates: November 29 – December 1, 2024
Duration: 1 hour
Cost:
Adults (13+): $39.99
Children (2-12): $26.99
Website: Northern Central Railway
Tickets can be purchased online through the Northern Central Railway’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Northern Central Railway’s Santa Express train
The Santa Express at Northern Central Railway offers a festive holiday experience for families. Passengers board a decorated train at the Historic New Freedom Train Station and embark on a journey to Glen Rock, Pennsylvania. During the ride, Santa Claus visits each child, presenting a special gift to those on the “NICE” list. After the excursion, guests can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies at the NCR Engine House, explore the model train room, and listen to holiday tunes played by a strolling fiddler.
Key Details:
Address: 117 N. Front Street, New Freedom, PA 17349
Dates: December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, and 22, 2024
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Cost:
Adults (13+): $39.99
Children (2-12): $26.99
Website: Northern Central Railway
Tickets can be purchased online through the Northern Central Railway’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Santa Clauses 80 Minutes Train Ride at Jim Thorpe
The Santa Claus Special at the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, offers a festive holiday experience for families. Passengers embark on a scenic train ride through the picturesque Lehigh Gorge, with Santa Claus and his elves visiting each car to greet children and distribute small treats.
Key Details:
Address: 1 Susquehanna Street, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2024
Duration: Approximately 80 minutes
Costs:
Standard Coach: $20 per person
Open Air Car: $25 per person
Crown Class: $30 per person
First Class Lounge: $40 per person
Private Caboose (up to 6 passengers): $260
Website: Lgsry
Tickets can be purchased online through the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding. The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Santa’s Polar Bear Express at Colebrookdale Railroad
Santa’s Polar Bear Express at the Colebrookdale Railroad offers a magical holiday journey through Pennsylvania’s Secret Valley. Passengers board beautifully restored, heated Edwardian-era coaches adorned with festive decorations. During the one-hour round-trip excursion, Santa Claus visits each car, presenting a gift to every child. Children can also hand their Christmas letters to Santa and receive a Colebrookdale Railroad-themed coloring book and crayons. Before boarding, guests are treated to complimentary hot cocoa and Christmas cookies in the decorated train yard.
Key Details:
Address: 64 S Washington St, Boyertown, PA 19512
Dates: November 29 – December 24, 2024
Duration: 1 hour
Cost:
Coach Class:
Adults (12+): $50 Children (2-11): $35 Infants (0-1): Free
First Class (Parlor Car and Lounge Car):
Adults (12+): $70 Children (2-11): $55 Infants (0-1): Free
Family Class (Dining Car and Beaver Car):
Adults (12+): $60Children (2-11): $45
Infants (0-1): Free
Website: Colebrookdale Railroad
Buy your tickets online now through Colebrookdale Railroad’s official website! Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to secure parking and board smoothly! The train operates rain or shine, so passengers should dress appropriately for the weather.
Holiday Train Rides in New Jersey
The Santa Express on Cape May Seashore Line
The Santa Express on the Cape May Seashore Lines is a cherished holiday tradition in southern New Jersey. This festive train ride offers families a memorable experience aboard vintage railcars adorned with holiday decorations. During the journey, Santa Claus visits each child, spreading holiday cheer and creating lasting memories. The train operates between Richland Village and Tuckahoe Village, providing a scenic view of the region’s winter landscape.
Key Details:
Address: Richland Village Train Station, U.S. Route 40 / Harding Highway, Richland, NJ 08350
Dates: November 30 – December 23, 2024
Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
Costs:
Coach Class:
Adults (12+): $20 Children (2-11): $15 Infants (under 2): Free
First Class:
Adults (12+): $35 Children (2-11): $30
Website: Seashore Lines
Tickets can be purchased online through the Cape May Seashore Lines’ official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding.
North Pole Express at Black River and Western Railroad
The North Pole Express at Black River and Western Railroad offers a magical holiday experience for families. Departing from Flemington Station, this 2.5-hour round-trip journey transports passengers to the enchanting North Pole. Onboard, guests are greeted by Santa and Mrs. Claus, who visit each car to spread holiday cheer. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by a reading of a Christmas-themed short story, and upon arrival at the North Pole Station, passengers can enjoy cookies and hot cocoa. Children receive a silver sleigh bell gift and a gold souvenir ticket as mementos of the trip. The station also features various photo opportunities, including Santa’s sleigh, a Christmas tree, and a giant wreath.
Key Details:
Address: Flemington Station – 80 Stangl Rd, Flemington, NJ 08822
Dates: November 24 – December 29, 2024
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Costs:
Coach Class:
Children (ages 3-11): $39.99 Adults (ages 12+): $42.99
Premium Coach:
Table for 2: $99.99 (includes fare for 2 people) Table for 4: $199.99 (includes fare for 4 people)
Parlor Class:
Table for 2: $129.99 (includes fare for 2 people)Table for 4: $259.99 (includes fare for 4 people)
Caboose Rental: $649.99 (for up to 14 people)
The Club Car: $1,699.99 (most exclusive experience)
Website: Black River Railroad
Tickets can be purchased online through the Black River and Western Railroad’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in.
The Polar Express Train Ride in the Delaware River Railroad Excursions
The Polar Express Train Ride with the Delaware River Railroad Excursions brings the beloved holiday story to life, offering families a magical journey reminiscent of the classic tale. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers are whisked away on a 90-minute round-trip adventure to meet Santa Claus. Onboard, dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies, and the story of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg is read aloud. Santa and his helpers greet passengers, and each guest receives a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas.
Key Details:
Address: 38 Market Street, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
Dates: November 29 – December 22, 2024
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Cost:
Children (ages 2-12): $38 Adults (ages 13+): $48
Lap Sitters (under 2 years): $5
Website: 877 Train Ride
Tickets can be purchased online through the Delaware River Railroad Excursions’ official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding.
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express offers a festive family experience in Hammonton, New Jersey. Guests embark on a train ride through millions of Christmas lights, meet Santa and his elves in his workshop, and enjoy various holiday-themed activities.
Key Details:
Address: 1151 South White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037
Dates: November 16 – December 23, 2024
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Cost:
Monday – Thursday: $19.95 per person
Friday & Sunday: $21.95 per person
Saturday: $26.95 per person
Plus Simpletix Ticketing fee
Website: Di Donato Fun Center
Tickets can be purchased online through DiDonato Family Fun Center’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in.
Tri-State Railway Historical Society’s Santa Train
The Tri-State Railway Historical Society’s Santa Train offers a festive holiday experience for families in New Jersey. This hour-long, round-trip journey departs from the Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center and features onboard entertainment, including musicians playing carols, costumed characters, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Each child receives a small gift from Santa, along with a candy cane and an activity book, making it a memorable event for all ages.
Key Details:
Address: Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, Route 23 Southbound & West Belt Parkway, Wayne, NJ 07470
Dates: December 14, 2024
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Cost:
Adults (12+): $31
Children (under 12): $28
Website: Tri-State Rail
Tickets can be purchased online through the Tri-State Railway Historical Society’s official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding.
The Polar Express Train Ride Whippany
The Polar Express Train Ride in Whippany, New Jersey, brings the beloved holiday story to life, offering families a magical journey reminiscent of the classic tale. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers are whisked away on a one-hour trip to meet Santa Claus. Onboard, dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread, and the story of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg is read aloud. Santa and his helpers greet passengers, and each guest receives a silver sleigh bell as the first gift of Christmas.
Key Details:
Address: 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ 07981
Dates: November 1 – December 30, 2024
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Cost:
Coach Class:
Value Departures: $55 Adult, $48 Child (2-11) Standard Departures: $68 Adult, $59 Child (2-11) Premium Departures: $79 Adult, $70 Child (2-11)
First Class:
Value Departures: $85 Adult, $78 Child (2-11) Standard Departures: $85 Adult, $78 Child (2-11) Premium Departures: $93 Adult, $86 Child (2-11)
Additional ticketing service fee and local tax will apply. An $11 parking pass is required for each vehicle.
Website: Whippany The Polar Express Ride
Tickets can be purchased online through the official website. It’s recommended to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and boarding.
Let us know which Christmas Train Rides you will be checking out this holiday season!
