Visiting Christmas markets, enjoying festive decorations at your favorite theme park, and making cookies are all beloved traditions of the holiday season. However, if taking a Christmas train ride isn’t already part of your family’s customs, it’s time to start a new tradition.

Adorned with sparkling lights and dazzling ornaments, Christmas-themed train rides provide a wonderful chance to take a picture with a certain jolly man in red – and perhaps enjoy some seasonal treats too.

The best holiday train journeys in the U.S. are filled with nostalgia and festive cheer, and since they usually last only a couple of hours, they are just the right length for young holiday enthusiasts. For a magical ride that rivals even the Hogwarts Express, check out these family-friendly Christmas train adventures.

1. Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa, California

Indulging in a gourmet meal, savoring fine wine, and watching picturesque vineyards pass by from an antique train car might seem like a treat just for adults, but during the holiday season, the Napa Valley Wine Train transforms into an enchanting experience for guests of all ages. On the Santa Train Jolly Journeys, visitors can select from four delightful ride options: Santa’s Cookie Car, Gourmet Holiday Express, Jingle on the Rails, or the Very Merry Vista Dome.

All of these festive train rides feature hot cider or cocoa, live carolers, and, of course, quality time with Santa. If you choose the Gourmet Holiday Express, Jingle on the Rails, or the Very Merry Vista Dome options, you’ll indulge in a three-course meal; aboard Santa’s Cookie Car, you’ll enjoy a selection of sweets. The Napa Valley Wine Train collaborates with Expressions of Hope, inviting passengers to bring small gifts for donation to foster youth.

2. Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad

Trego, Wisconsin

In December, the North Woods of Wisconsin resemble a picturesque snow globe. This winter wonderland is the setting for the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad, where every year, the Santa Train combines the excitement of meeting Santa with a delicious pizza feast.

The cheerful two-hour ride spans about 15 miles, offering views of the stunning snow-covered landscapes, a photo and visit with Santa, cookies, and a warm drink. And of course, cheesy pizza is on the menu!

3. East Broad Top Railroad

Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania

Founded in 1872, the East Broad Top Railroad is the oldest operational narrow-gauge railroad in the U.S., located in what was once Pennsylvania’s coal mining hub. Each holiday season, the Christmas in Coal Country experience embraces the area’s mining heritage on a one-hour train ride (in cozy cars heated by traditional coal stoves) that winds through the picturesque hills, farms, and forests where miners and their families once resided. Guests also enjoy snacks and a gift from Santa, adding to the festive experience.

4. 1880 Train

Hill City, South Dakota

Enjoy a delightful cup of hot cocoa and a delicious sugar cookie while riding the 1880 Train’s festive Holiday Express with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This enchanting train journey begins in Hill City, centrally located in the Black Hills, close to notable sights like Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. For the adults, there’s an option to purchase a spiked drink served in a collectible mug to elevate your experience.

5. Skunk Train

Ft. Bragg, California

Immerse yourself in Mendocino County’s magnificent old-growth redwood forest, abundant ferns, and soft moss while riding the Skunk Train any season of the year. However, if you choose the enchanting Christmas Tree Train that leaves from Willits Depot, your family will witness this stunning landscape adorned with vibrant Christmas lights and fun decorations.

Enjoy two hours onboard filled with delightful snacks, games, and songs that match the captivating natural scenery. Plus, meet Santa and Mr. Skunk at his enormous redwood tree workshop for added enjoyment.

6. Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, Arizona 

Experience pure holiday joy on the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express. The festive train ride begins at the historic depot in Williams and travels through scenic high desert plains and dense ponderosa pine forests, finally arriving at the “North Pole.” Upon arrival, Santa and his reindeer meet every child, ensuring a magical moment. Guests will receive delightful treats, hot chocolate, and listen to a reading of the beloved children’s story The Polar Express during this 90-minute journey.

7. Wilmington & Western Railroad

Wilmington, Delaware

The Wilmington & Western Railroad in Delaware offers two festive train rides for the holiday season. On the Santa Claus Express, families can bring their cameras to snap pictures with Santa, who greets everyone aboard the vintage diesel locomotive. After the photo opportunity, passengers of all ages can enjoy delicious treats during the relaxing 90-minute ride.

If you prefer a shorter excursion, the 60-minute Holiday Lights Express ride features 100-year-old coaches traversing the Red Clay Valley. The train is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, and many homes along the route also participate, showcasing fantastic holiday lighting displays.

8. Journey to the North Pole

North Conway and Lincoln, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s White Mountains offer an array of winter fun for families, from skiing to snow biking. Board the Journey to the North Pole for a magical two-hour train ride across snowy landscapes right to Santa’s workshop. Enjoy live entertainment and tasty treats with Santa and his elves to get you in the festive mood. This delightful journey leaves from North Conway or Lincoln.

9. New Hope Railroad

New Hope, Pennsylvania

When covered in snow, the rolling hills of Bucks County create a beautiful winter scene. Located along the Delaware River, the charming town of New Hope is home to New Hope Railroad, featuring a picturesque Victorian-style station adorned in festive decorations for the holiday season.

Get ready for holiday merriment on the railroad’s Santa’s Steam Train Ride to the “North Pole,” a delightful one-hour experience with live music, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and plenty of festive treats. Choose from three classes of service to find a suitable ticket price for your family.

10. Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad

Cooperstown, New York

While Cooperstown is widely recognized as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, it transforms into a holiday wonderland when winter arrives. The Santa Claus Express on the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad is festively adorned with lights, garland, and ornaments, accompanied by plenty of holiday music and refreshments.

For this holiday adventure, families are encouraged to bring a small gift with their child’s name for Santa to present. The train ride lasts just over two hours, perfect for creating lasting memories.

10 Christmas train rides guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com.

The perspectives shared in this article reflect those of the author and may not necessarily align with the views of YSL News. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are part of Vacationist Media LLC. Through our travel recommendation process, we evaluate and choose family travel options, resorts, and classic holiday experiences for all ages. TourScoop focuses on guided tours and provides reviews of tour operators, itineraries, and travel gear.