If your mini conductor goes off the rails for all things trains, these San Francisco train rides and Bay Area train museums will entertain the entire family

Some kids like riding bikes, others prefer getting out on the water, and then there are those littles who love nothing more than a locomotive adventure. Luckily, the Bay Area is full of opportunities for mini conductors to get their fill! From being in awe of magnificent miniature train exhibits to climbing aboard life-size ones, we are putting you on the right track with this list of the best places for kid-friendly train rides and adventures—and many a great venue for a birthday party!—all over San Francisco and beyond! All you have to do is choo-choose your favorite outing and have a blast.

San Francisco

Cable Car Museum

This stop will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s famous Cable Cars. The bottom level offers a peek at the cables that make the whole system work and upstairs, you can explore the mechanics of the cars themselves and see exactly what goes into powering them. The best part is, admission is free!

1201 Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
Onlinecablecarmuseum.org

SF Railroad Museum and Gift shop

By allowing kids to take control of a 1911 San Francisco streetcar model, this compact and free museum near the Ferry Building offers a feel of what it's like to drive a streetcar  Hop aboard any of the historic F Market streetcars (along Market St. and the Embarcadero) for a front door drop-off.  Be sure to check out their train-tastic gift shop.

77 Steuart St.
San Francisco, CA
Onlinestreetcar.org/museum

Little Puffer Miniature Steam Train

Located inside the San Francisco Zoo, a ride on the Little Puffer is the perfect way to take a walking break, and still observe a variety of animals from the cars. At more than a century old, it has a fascinating history, including being one of three of its kind in the world. Rides are $7, not included with zoo admission, and children under three ride free with a paying adult.

Sloat Blvd at the Great Highway
San Francisco, CA
Onlinesfzoo.org

Randall Museum

Little train-lovers will love a stop at the always-free Randall Museum. The museums basement houses one of the largest model railroad layouts in California, that you can run with the push of a button. Kids can also enjoy hopping aboard the Randall Pacific Caboose. Good to know: the museum is temporarily closed due to Covid-19, check their site for updated info. 

199 Museum Way
San Francisco, CA
Onlinerandallmuseum.org

Related: Epic California Road Trips You Need to Take with Your Kids

East Bay

Golden State Model Railroad Museum

This amazing collection of model trains and railways recreate the terrain of Northern and Central California in detail. The miniature trains run Sundays from noon-4 p.m. Admission is between $3-5, children 4 and under are free and families get in for $10. 

900-A Dornan Dr.
Point Richmond, CA
Onlinegsmrm.org

Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society

Your train-lovers are in for a treat at the Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society, from mountains to drawbridges and an evening scene, complete with a thunderstorm—they’ve recreated tons of routes for train travel. This epic model is only open to the public a few times a year, so check out their schedule for specific monthly dates. Fun fact: six and under are free, as are scouts who come in uniform!

2751 Buena Vista Ave.
Walnut Creek, CA
Online:wcmrs.org

 

Niles Canyon Railway

History comes to life on this old-school railway and museum that runs south of Pleasanton and makes a round trip between Fremont and Sunol. You can choose to ride a diesel or a steam engine, and even rent out a caboose or whole train for your next event. Be sure to check out their locals favorite Holiday Train of Lights in November and December.

37105 Vallejo Way
Fremont, CA
Onlinencry.org

Redwood Valley Steam Train

High up on the hills above Berkeley, this mini-train winds through the redwoods of Tilden Park. You’ll travel over bridges and through a tunnel on the 15-minute round trips. Tickets are $3.50 for adults/children, ages two and under ride free and a five ticket family pack is $14. Open weekends all year round and summer weekdays, weather permitting. 

Grizzly Peak Blvd. and Lomas Cantadas Rd.
Berkeley, CA
Online: redwoodvalleyrailway.com

Golden Gate Live Streamers

If you visit the Redwood Valley Steam Train on a Sunday, you’ll likely get a bonus ride. That’s when the Golden Gate Live Steamers let the public take a spin on their small-scale model trains. They run Sundays noon-3 p.m. (weather-permitting)—rides are free, but donations are appreciated.

Tilden Park
Located just below the boarding area for the Steam Train
Berkeley, CA
Online: goldengatels.org

Ardenwood Historic Farm

Within this fully functional farm is a short railway operated by Ardenwood’s Railroad Museum, that takes you from one end of the property to the other. On board, you'll find staff and docents dressed in period costumes taking you back to when railroads connected the East Bay’s farms to towns and cities. Rides are included with admission, so your little passengers can ride as many times as they'd like. Admission ranges from $2-6 depending on month and day, children under four are free.

34600 Ardenwood Blvd.
Fremont, CA
Onlineebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

Outback Express Adventure Train

Like the Little Puffer, this train is located within a zoo and can be accessed without buying an Oakland Zoo admission. You will still spy a few of the wildlife, as the train travels through the Australian exhibit (hence the name). Rides are $3/person, children under two ride free, however, you will still need to pay for zoo parking.

9777 Golf Links Rd.
Oakland, CA
Onlineoaklandzoo.org

Jolly Trolly at Children's Fairyland

For the tiniest train aficionados, take a ride on the Jolly Trolly, the oldest ride at Children’s Fairyland. This kid-size train travels through the parks Old West Junction area and through a tunnel and is always a hit with the itty-bitty crowd.

699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA
Online: fairyland.org

Related: 20 Totally-Free Museums in the Bay

Peninsula

Roaring Camp Railroads

Roaring Camp hosts several events throughout the year, including its annual Thomas the Tank Engine Days. This railroad in the mountains travels through Redwoods and over trestles, take a ride to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and back for an extra-fun day of adventure.

5401 Graham Hill Rd.
Felton, CA
Onlineroaringcamp.com

Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History  

Located inside the Caltrain depot in Santa Clara, the South Bay Historical Railroad Society operates this museum. Displays include artifacts, paraphernalia and two working model railroad lines. Museum is free and open to the public on Tuesdays nights and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

1005 Railroad Avenue
Santa Clara, CA
Online:sbhrs.org

Central Park Bianchi Mini Train

This delightful tiny train gives rides around San Mateo's Central Park for $2 a ride. It runs between 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. on weekends year round and daily during the summer.

50 E 5th Ave.
San Mateo, CA
Online:cityofsanmateo.org

Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad

For just $2/person (2 and under are free) this historic, 1/3-scale railroad loops around Oak Meadow Park. This locals go-to has plenty of attractions to keep your group busy all day.  Visit the park in December for a special holiday ride during their annual lights exhibit.

233 Blossom Hill Rd
Los Gatos, CA
Onlinebjwrr.org

Marin County

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad

TrainTown is a hit with railroad lovers of all ages. The passenger train takes visitors through tunnels and over bridges before stopping at a miniature town and petting zoo (bring quarters for food). The park also offers a concession stand, a train themed gift shop and several amusement rides. Admission and parking are free and tickets are sold for individual attractions.

20264 Broadway
Sonoma, CA
Online:traintown.com

Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum

The lovely restored building at Shoreline Park captures the past in two museums. The ground floor houses the detailed operating HO-scale model that shows Tiburon, the railroad town c. 1900 to 1910, and upstairs is the Depot House Museum, where the stationmaster’s family lived. The museum is open weekends 1-4 p.m. and on sunny Sundays in October-April. Admission is free but donations are welcome.   

1920 Paradise Dr.
Tiburon, CA
Online: landmarkssociety.com

Ride the SMART

For your North Bay adventures, ride the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit or SMART train, as the locals call it. With stops from Larkspur to Santa Rosa, you and your little travelers can sit back and enjoy the Marin open-space views.

600 Larkspur Landing Cir.
Larkspur, CA
Online: sonomamarintrain.org

Howarth Park

This 138-acre park is home to a carousel, animal barn and train ride. The simulated 1863 C.P. Huntington steam train takes guests on a quarter-mile ride through a tunnel, pond, over a bridge and into the forest. Must be 42 inches tall to ride alone, children 12 months and under ride free.

630 Summerfield Rd.
Santa Rosa, CA
Online
srcity.org

Related: Incredible Train Car Stays You Need to Book Now

Farther Out

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Just 10 minutes from the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park is the historic Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offering train rides, gold panning, an on-site museum and well stocked collectibles gift store. Their 1-hour narrated "The Logger" tour and 3-hour "Moonlight Special" are popular with families and offer boxed lunch and dinner options.

56001 Hwy 41
Fish Camp, CA
Online: ymsprr.com

California State Railroad Museum

Take the Amtrak to the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, just a block away from the Old Town stop, you'll find trains, refurbished cars, an elaborate model railway and a room with a whopping EIGHT train tables. For an additional fee, you can also take a ride along the Sacramento River on weekends during the Summer. Children 5 and under ride free.

125 I St.
Sacramento, CA
Onlinecsrmf.org

Western Railway Museum

Chug on out to Solano County to check out the dozens of railcars, engines and trolleys housed in this one-of-a-kind museum. Kiddos can climb on cars in the giant sheds out back and hop aboard one of the trains or streetcars for a ride around the hills. Be sure to check out their calendar for their Halloween and Christmas events.

5848 State Hwy 12
Suisun City, CA
Onlinewrm.org

Railroad Park Resort

45 minutes past Redding is Railroad Park Resort where you'll find glamping at its finest.  Accommodations  include vintage railroad cabooses that sleep up to five, with fridge, microwave, full bathroom, WiFi, on-site pool, a nearby creek for exploring and a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner in a rail car. 

100 Railroad Park Rd.
Dunsmuir, CA
Online:rrpark.com

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Located in Jamestown on the way to Yosemite, this Gold Rush hot spot is a destination for California train lovers. One of the highlights is a guided walking tour of the Park’s authentic, working railroad roundhouse and air-powered turntable. Visit on the second Tuesday of every month for a behind-the-scenes tour or take a ride on weekends during the warmer months. Be sure to check out the Polar Express In December.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
10501 Reservoir Rd.
Jamestown, CA
Online:railtown1897.org

The Napa Valley Wine Train

While this train is usually used for wine-tasting, it transforms into the Santa Express every winter. Riders are treated to games, music, hot cocoa, fresh-baked cookies and a visit from the big man himself along the journey.

1275 McKinstry St.
Napa, CA
Online: winetrain.com

The Skunk Train

The Skunk Train has been transporting passengers for over a hundred years on the world-famous Redwood Route, with depots in Fort Bragg and Willits, in beautiful Mendocino County. The railbikes at Fort Bragg, available March-November, are a must. While in Fort Bargg, stop by the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad , admission is free with your Skunk Train ticket. Visit in November and December for a ride on the Christmas Trains that include cookies, hot cocoa and a visit with Santa. 

Fort Bragg and Willits Depots
Online:skunktrain.com

Western Pacific Railroad Museum

This exciting, hands-on museum offers train rides, a "Run-A-Locomotive" program that allows you to rent a vintage diesel locomotive and operate it on museum grounds, a Pumpkin Express in October and Santa Trains in December.

700 Western Pacific Way
Portola, CA
Online: wplives.org

Additional reporting by Melissa Bouse & Kate Loweth

 

 

 

Hop on board the holiday season with these magical train rides in the San Francisco Bay Area that’ll keep your winter festivities on track

It’s the time of the year to start thinking about booking your family’s holiday train tickets. Sure, your winter schedule is already packed with experiences like picking out your Christmas tree or catching a merry show nearby. But the holiday trains are just waiting for you to jump on board. The magic of these festive rides—from twinkling lights to hot cocoa to Santa himself—will get the entire family in the spirit and could even become one of those traditional can’t-miss local events. However, holiday train rides in the Bay Area are super popular, so be sure to book early so you don’t miss out, and then get ready to bring on the cheer.

1. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train

It’s a true Californian Christmas when Santa is at the beach. St. Nick will join your family aboard this vintage Bay Area train decorated with thousands of lights. Once you embark on this 60-minute round trip, your family can enjoy refreshments, a holiday sing-along, and, of course, a visit from Santa. And the fun doesn’t stop when the train pulls back into the station. For just $7 you can purchase a pass to take advantage of the attractions and arcade at Neptune’s Kingdom.

Good to Know: There is also a Holiday Tree Walk where you can take a steam train from Roaring Camp’s Felton location to Bear Mountain and view a tree-lined walk of decorated trees. Stick around in town after the ride for winter-themed activities.

Dates: Nov. 25-26, Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-23; Times vary. 
Cost: $44/adults; $33/children ages 2-12. Parking in lot across the street is $10.

Neptune’s Kingdom on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk
400 Beach St.
Santa Cruz
Online: roaringcamp.com

People walking by a train from Caltrain decorated with Christmas lights and festive displays like Nutcrackers and reindeer on the outside of the train.
Caltrain Holiday Train

2. The Caltrain Holiday Train

This train brings the holiday fun to you. A tradition since 2011, this free family event is a chance to check out special Caltrain cars decked out with over 70,000 glittering lights. The Holiday Train stops at nine Caltrain stations between San Francisco and Santa Clara. Come to one of the Bay Area stations to take in the beautiful train, listen to holiday entertainment, and bring a donation for Toys 4 Tots, as they will be collecting there. This is a great option for those looking to experience the magic of a Holiday train, without committing to an hour-plus ride. Not to mention, the price is right.

Good to Know: This is not a ride and no passengers are allowed on the holiday train. The public is invited to join in the celebration at each of the stations 30 minutes before the expected arrival time.

Dates: Dec. 3-4; Times vary
Cost: Free

Caltrain Stations between San Francisco and Santa Clara
Online: holiday-train.org

3. Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad Holiday Train

The Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad offers all of the holiday fun on a smaller scale. The sweet little open-air train winds through part of Vasona Park’s Fantasy of Lights spectacular. The 1.5-mile loop is just enough to get that festive fix and get to bed on time. If you’re up for a little more action after the ride, there are plenty more light displays in the park to check out, which aren’t visible from the train (a separate ticket is needed).

Good to Know: Dress warmly: The train is small (roller coaster-style seats) with no roof or windows. You can also walk or drive your car through Vasona Park to see the Festival of Lights. Avoid University Avenue when arriving: Take Los Gatos Boulevard to Blossom Hill Road and turn right into the Oak Meadow parking lot.

Dates: Thurs.-Sun., Dec. 8-30; 6-9 p.m.
Cost: $7/person for one train ride and one carousel ride. Children under age 3 ride free with a paying adult. 

Oak Meadow Park
233 Blossom Hill Rd. 
Los Gatos
Online: bjwrr.org

4. Glowfari at the Oakland Zoo

The Oakland Zoo transforms into a shining spectacle with hundreds of illuminated, larger-than-life lantern animals lighting the way on a mile-long journey. Ride both the gondola and express train and end the evening with Santa himself. New displays this year include creatures such as whales and otters from the California coastline and a walkabout with kangaroos and koalas from the land down under. 

Good to Know: This event often sells out so reserve your tickets in advance. Parking is free, children under 2 get in free and zoo members receive a 10 percent discount. Meet Santa from 6-9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday in November and every night Dec. 1-23. Animals will not be visible, as they’ll be in their night houses.

Dates: Nov. 16-23, 25-27, 30; Dec. 1-23, 26-31; Jan. 1-8, 11-15, 18-22, 19-23, 25-29; 5-9 p.m.
Cost: $24/adult; $20/child & seniors; under 2 free

Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd. 
Oakland
Online: oaklandzoo.org

5. Magical Christmas Train

The River Fox Train becomes the Magical Christmas Train as it chugs along a storybook wonderland. Santa's elves will be on board to join the passengers in holiday sing-a-longs and festive games. The one-hour train ride will include hot cocoa, a cookie, and an opportunity to send a letter to Santa.

Good to Know: A souvenir mug is included in the ticket price. Seating is assigned, so make a note when purchasing tickets if you want to sit with another party. Christmas jammies are encouraged.

Dates: Fri.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 18, daily Dec. 19-23; Times vary
Cost: $55/adults, $45/children ages 3-12, $10/ages 2 and younger

River Fox Train
18095 County Rd. 117
West Sacramento
Online: riverfoxtrain.com

santa on the back of a holiday train ride
Skunk Train

6. Christmas Tree Train

Travel through a storybook wonderland in the redwoods aboard a newly-imagined Christmas experience out of Willits on the Skunk Train. This two-hour journey takes you to Mr. Skunk's Giant Christmas tree, a decorated redwood along the line that Santa Mr. Skunk uses as a workshop. Come dressed in your finest holiday jammies and join in the holiday cheer. Seating is unassigned so board with your buddies if you'd like to sit together.

Good to Know: Purchase a copy of Skippy the TrainDeer for $7 when you order your tickets so that you can read along on the ride. While tickets are non-refundable, you may contact the Skunk Train at least 72 hours prior to your ride to reschedule or receive a voucher for another ride.

Dates: Nov. 26-27, 30; Dec. 2-4, 7, 9-11, 14, 16-23, 26-31; Times vary
Cost: $60/per person, $95/VIP seating, $11/dog

Willits Station
299 E. Commercial St.
Willits
Online: skunktrain.com

7. Western Railway Museum

Santa arrives at the museum in late November. There, he joins guests on one of the lovingly-restored rail cars for a 50-minute ride through the golden hills. Cookies and hot chocolate are included. The trains run during the day, so this is a great option for kids (and adults) who can’t stay up late.

Good to know: The train is usually comprised of one or two cars which run on electricity. So no giant locomotives here. There is a huge barn of rail cars in various stages of repair, which is super fun to check out before and after. The railway museum is all volunteer-run. Older kids will especially enjoy hearing the history of the trains and cars.

Dates: Nov. 26-27, Dec. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18; trains run every hour from 12-5 p.m.
Cost: $27/adults; $25/children/$12-$15 members

5848 State Highway 12
Suisun City
Online: wrm.org

8. California State Railroad Museum Polar Express

It’s like the pages of “The Polar Express” come alive on this one-hour journey. Many of the book’s characters join riders, including the Conductor, the Dancing Waiters, and the ghostly Hobo. It’s no wonder these tickets seem to sell out as soon as they’re available. Each coach and first-class car has a different theme, so you can book the exact one you want. All riders will get a magical first gift of Christmas from Santa—that beautiful silver bell.

Good to Know: Museum members get first crack at tickets for this wildly-popular event (remember that for next year), but it’s worth checking the website frequently as tickets are occasionally available as the museum processes returns. Commemorative photos with Santa are also available for purchase. No strollers on board; stroller parking area near the boarding platform.

Dates: Wed.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 21; 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Cost: $60/person for coach class; $80/person for first class; children under 2 are free if sitting on lap.

Central Pacific Passenger Station
930 Front St.
Sacramento
Online: californiarailroad.museum

9. The Napa Valley Wine Train Santa Train

They pull out all the stops each year, as the Wine Train fills with the sounds of the season. Guests will be treated to three all-new Jolly Journeys after they arrive at the station to cheerful carolers, a welcome cup of hot cider or cocoa, photo opportunities with Santa, and a merry mailing station for postcards to the North Pole. Jingle and mingle in Santa's Cookie Car, have a three-course kid-friendly dinner on the Gourmet Holiday Express, and indulge in 360-degree views of wine country from the Very Merry Vista Dome. It's a fun-filled, action-packed journey, suitable for all ages.

Good to Know: Make your reservations NOW. This train sells out very early. They'll be collecting new, unwrapped gifts for Napa foster children. Regular seating at a table, no booster seats available. Food and drink are available for purchase on the train, including a kid-friendly menu.

Dates: Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 1-23; departure at 6:10 p.m.
Cost: $95-$195/adults, $75-$105/children

The Napa Valley Wine Train Station
1275 McKinstry St.
Napa
Online: winetrain.com

10. Nevada Northern Railway Santa's Reindeer Flyer

If your holiday plans take you to Nevada, then you’ll want to grab a ticket aboard the Christmas Express Train that leaves from the town of Ely. Passengers aboard Santa’s Reindeer Flyer will enjoy a comfy ride in their pajamas with hot chocolate and cookies as they listen to the story of how this year’s Christmas Train came to be. Santa Claus himself will board the train and personally present each child their own special gift to remember the spirit of the season.

Good to Know: Discounts are available for military, AAA members, and groups of 12 or more. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis so arrive early. The train is pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive.

Dates:Various dates Nov. 19-Dec. 28; Times vary
Cost: $45/adults, $20/kids ages 4-12

Nevada Northern Railway Museum
1100 Ave. A
Ely, NV
Online: nnry.com

11. Polar Express Railtown 1897

***Sold out for the 2022 season but check online for cancellations***

Experience a Polar Express that is off the beaten track when you head up into the California foothills to Jamestown, a historic gold rush town perfectly preserved for your holiday photo backdrops. Head to the Jamestown 1897 Railpark where you can embark upon your official Polar Express train with several cars pulled by a vintage engine from Railtown 1897’s collection. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate and yummy cookies as they ride along to the North Pole, where the jolly old elf—Santa himself—will come on board to give each passenger a silver sleighbell, the “first gift of Christmas.”

Good to Know: Make it a weekend to remember and stay at the nearby Rush Creek Lodge and visit Yosemite.

Dates: Fri.-Sun., Nov. 25-Dec. 18; 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $60/seat; children 2 and under (on laps) are free.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
10501 Reservoir Rd.
Jamestown
Online: railtown1897.org

12. Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights

***Sold out for the 2022 season but check online for cancellations***

The Niles Canyon Train of Lights is an extremely popular East Bay tradition. Volunteers meticulously adorn all of the train cars with twinkling lights, garlands, and bows—inside and out. Santa and Mrs. Claus make the rounds as the train winds through the canyon wilderness. Sit in an open-air car to get the best view of the decorations outside (or just go out for a peek as the train rounds one of the bends). A concession stand offers treats like cookies and cocoa but families are also allowed to bring their own refreshments.

Good to Know: Get your tickets early: This event is very popular and sells out quickly. They sell some day-of at the station, however, so get there early if you haven’t booked or check for cancellations online. The ride lasts a little over an hour and runs rain or shine. No strollers are allowed on board.

Dates: Wed., Fri.-Sun., Nov. 18-Dec. 28 (except Dec. 24 & 25); train departs Niles at 4:30 p.m. and Sunol at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $35/person, $65/person in the first class dome (children 3 and under are free if on a lap)

Niles Station
37029 Mission Blvd.
Fremont

Sunol Station
6 Kilkare Rd. 
Sunol
Online: ncry.org

 

Jumpstart your holiday season when you take the kids to see the best Christmas lights Atlanta has to offer

You can always tell the holidays are on the way when Christmas light displays start popping up around the city. A magical experience for kids of all ages, taking them to enjoy holiday lights is a cherished family tradition for many (just like cutting your own Christmas tree or riding a nearby Santa train). That’s why we’ve scoured the city in search of the best Christmas lights Atlanta can muster, so you can find high-voltage holiday cheer. Flip the switch on family fun when you head out in search of Atlanta holiday lights this year.

Here’s where to find stunning Christmas lights in Atlanta

1. Garden Nights, Holiday Lights - Atlanta Botanical Gardens Christmas lights

The million-light display at the Botanical Garden can't be beat. Family favorites include the orchestral orbs (glowing balls that blink in time with holiday classics), the tricked-out train display, and the fire pits for roasting s’mores (while mom and dad drink a cocktail from the cash adult bar). Be sure to bring a stroller for little legs, and don't miss the incredible laser light display in the orchid house. Guests can expect new twists, including a display in the Anne Cox Chambers Garden by French artist, Cédric LeBorgne and oversized sculptures from the summer sensation, Origami in the Garden.

Insider Tip: Families will need to purchase timed tickets in advance (they sell out quickly). If you want to save on admission, attend on one of the 14 Value Nights.

Dates: Nov. 12, 2022-Jan. 14, 2023

1345 Piedmont Ave.
Atlanta
Event details

2. ATL Holiday Lights

Families can find this popular drive-thru display a new location this year. And even though it's not at Atlantic Station this year, you can expect to see the same kinds of LED-powered displays that left your whole family "ooh-ing" and "ahh-ing" as you made your way along the path in the past. Timed tickets ensure everyone has enough time to drive slowly through, taking it all in. Plan to grab yours in advance (you save $10 per carload if you do). Value nights are your best bang for your buck here. 

Dates: Nov. 25, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023

Lakewood Amphitheatre
2002 Lakewood Way S.W.
Atlanta
Event details

3. Atlantic Station Christmas Lights - Celebration at the Station

Snow in Atlanta? You bet—when you head to Atlantic Station for the free nightly celebration that's all about spreading holiday cheer. The whole thing kicked off on November 19 with a tree lighting and holiday disco. But if you missed it, you can still bring the kids to see these towering Christmas lights, Atlanta families. They'll be on nightly as part of a light and snow show (we told you) that go along with a video. Pair it with a night of ice skating around the ribbon and you've got yourself a real holiday tradition in the making.

Atlantic Green
1380 Atlantic Dr. N.W.
Atlanta
Online: atlanticstation.com

Related: Ice Skating Rinks near Atlanta for Fresh & Frosty Winter Fun

people in a car, standing through the sun roof, drive through Chistmas lights atlanta display world of illumination reindeer run
World of Illumination

4. World of Illumination's Reindeer Road

World of Illumination is back with a breathtaking drive-through Christmas light experience kids and families will love. Consider it the ultimate holiday activity for all ages—from tots to grandparents, and everyone, in between. Although families could enjoy this display last year at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, this year you can only find this dazzling show at Six Flags White Water in Marietta. Reindeer Road will feature millions of colorful lights and animated displays synchronized to holiday music. Plan to slowly make your way along the one-mile-long display in about 25-30 minutes—the perfect amount of time for families with small kids. They'll stay riveted so you can enjoy the show too.

Dates: Nov. 12, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023

Six Flags Whitewater
250 Cobb Pkwy. N.
Marietta, GA
Event details

5. IllumiNights: A Chinese Lantern Festival - Zoo Atlanta Christmas Lights

When it comes to Atlanta Christmas lights that never disappoint, add Zoo Atlanta's noteworthy lantern display to the list. Returning as an area favorite, IllumiNights is a nighttime lantern wonderland celebrating the beauty of the natural world. Stroll the Zoo after dark to be inspired by glowing, oversized animal lanterns—some up to 20 feet tall—depicting many of the planet's most charismatic creatures. Each lantern is made and hand-painted by Chinese artisans and will totally fascinate your family.

Dates: Nov. 21, 2022-Jan. 15, 2023

800 Cherokee Ave. S.E.
Atlanta
Event details

6. Let It Shine Light Show

Synchronized lights set to your favorite holiday songs. It's the stuff Christmas dreams are made of, and it's what you'll find at this brand new drive through Atlanta Christmas light experience that opens on November 18. After you've gotten tickets, it's as simple as loading the kids in the car (holiday jammies are a must), with a mug of hot cocoa and a smile. then heading over to Coolray Field to take in this full sensory experience. You'll see one million LED lights in every direction—towering overhead, off in the distance—creating a memorable experience for your little angels. All that's left is the ride home, where they'll surely have visions of sugar plum faires dancing through their heads.

Dates: Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023

Coolray Field
2500 Buford Dr.
Lawrenceville, GA
Event details

 

7. Lakeside Lights at Margaritaville Lanier Islands

Go on a magical walk through an amazing light show set to festive seasonal music. Unlike your typical holiday light show, this one is a dazzling lighting extravaganza, and you can take a break along the way for cocktails, hot chocolate, and s'mores. But we think the kids will love it if you pair your light viewing with a trip to Snow Island, where the whole fam can go tubing, ice skating, and hop on some seriously fun carnival rides.

Dates: Nov. 19-27, 2022, plus Dec. 2, 2022-Jan. 16, 2023

7541 Lanier Islands Pkwy.
Buford, GA
Event details

Related: 6 Atlanta Toy Stores That Make Holiday Shopping Easy

8. Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens

There's a reason this display in Pine Mountain is considered one of the best in the world. With 10 million lights spread out over 2,500 acres this year—Fantasy in Lights' 30th—promises to be the best one yet. Families can walk or drive through the display, taking in all that holiday cheer along the way. If you ask us, this Christmas light experience is worth the 90 minute trek from Atlanta. Even if it's just to see this year's newest addition—Celebration Lake. It features 30 dancing trees, one for each year the display has been open. Don’t forget to hit the Christmas Village before you head back home. Filled with ornaments, treats, and the Big Guy himself (photos available), the kids will love the chance to stretch their legs and marinate in the merriment.

Dates: Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 2, 2023

17800 US Hwy 27
Pine Mountain, GA
Online: callawaygardens.com

9. Holiday Lights at Brook Run Park

Holiday Lights are back at Brook Run Park, and this year's theme is Candy Land—talk about kid appeal! Starting December 1, families can walk through this display that features 85,000 twinkling lights shaped as ice cream cones, gumball machines, chocolate volcano cake, milkshakes, and more. There's even an ice cream truck you'll be able to walk through (anyone else thinking photo op?)

Insider Tip: This display goes live December 1st, when the mayor flips the switch at 6 p.m. Come early to enjoy hot cocoa, candy, and character appearances starting at 4 p.m.

Dates: Dec. 1-31, 2022

4770 N. Peachtree Rd.
Dunwoody, GA
Event details

Related: Southern Slopes: 8 Ski Spots near Atlanta

10. Stone Mountain Christmas

Another walk-thru light display option for families with Littles who can't go too far, Stone Mountain decks the halls with millions of lights, and offers plenty of options for keeping the kids entertained—from taking a ride on the train (decorated for the holidays and rockin’ some jolly tunes) to taking in a visit with Santa, Rudolph, or the Bumble. Get there early and take a ride on Atlanta's only snow-covered slope. We're looking forward to the Christmas light show and fireworks finale at the end of the day. And the new Christmas Drone Show sounds simply amazing. Santa arrives each night by sleigh at the tree lighting.

Dates: Nov. 12, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023

1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd.
Stone Mountain, GA
Event details

11. Lights of Life at Life University

Talk about some holiday spirit. This incredible light exhibit is a zero-profit event for Life University in Marietta that boasts the tallest Santa and his sleigh display in the Southeast. New displays are added yearly, and the entire arrangement is unique each year. Be sure to hit the petting zoo, train rides, pony rides, and visit with Santa before you leave, but you might want to wait until after driving-through the light exhibit to tell the littles. You won’t be able to keep them in the car, otherwise.

Dates: Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2022

1269 Barclay Circle
Marietta, GA
Event details

12. A Country Christmas at Pettit Creek Farms

Experience all the warmth and charm of a Southern Family Christmas at Pettit Creek Farms! Take a lovely drive or hayride through more than a mile of beautiful Christmas lights. You only need to pay for one option, either the hayride or the drive thru. Experience a nativity (animals on Saturday) and meet the animals at the petting zoo. Getting chilly? Warm up by the fire and enjoy s’mores, funnel cakes, hot chocolate, and more from a convenient concession stands.

Dates: Nov. 24-Dec. 30, 2022

337 Cassville Rd.
Cartersville, GA
Online: pettitcreekfarms.com

Related: Ride the Rails! Holiday Train Rides near Atlanta

Find the sweetest Atlanta holiday lights at these impressive neighborhood displays

while lights hang from trees wrapped in purple lights at lights of Joy one of the best christmas lights atlanta displays
Lights of Joy

13. Hrockin Hranicky Christmas Lights

Tune your radio to 107.7 FM and prepare to rock around the Christmas tree. The display runs 6–10 pm nightly. This generous family hosts fundraisers year-round for their favorite charity, and the holiday season is no different. Donations of money, pet food, and supplies are accepted on behalf of Angels Among Us Animal Rescue.

Location: 3848 Rivers Run Trce. N.W., Acworth, GA

14. Lights of Joy

With 1 million lights, this is the biggest residential Christmas lights display in Georgia. Nightly shows run from Sunday, November 27, through Sunday, January 1, 2023, from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. The family encourages visitors to park across the street at the Influencers Church and walk to see the lights. Also, please leave pets at home.

Location: 1510 Ben King Rd., Kennesaw, GA

15. Springfield Drive

What do Star Wars and Hanukkah have in common? Only one of the best inflatable and lights displays in Atlanta. And it isn't just one house. Head to Springfield Drive in Dunwoody to get a boost of Hanukkah spirit.

Location: Springfield Dr., Dunwoody, GA

16. Burton Christmas Lights

After Thanksgiving, you can cruise past this elaborate, annual display to see festive holiday lights, animations, and synchronization (turn your car radio to 101.9 FM to hear the music). 

Location: 165 Stafford Ct., Fayetteville, GA

17. Portwood Family Christmas Lights

With more than 100,000 lights and a 35-foot Frosty the Snowman, this family decorates in super-size. Free to drive by or walk past, the Portwood family is collecting packs of new socks for ages 6-13 for the Paulding County Sheriff's Office. You'll find them with the lights on November 25-December 10, from Sunday through Thursday, 6–10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, from 6–11 p.m.

Location: 20 Valley Dr., Hiram, GA

18. Ashebrooke Night of Lights

This Cumming neighborhood lights up its streets and homes in a spectacular way one night in December, raising money for local causes. This year's event date has yet to be released, but you can check Facebook or Instagram for updates. Hit it on the magical night of lights for a chance to see Santa, a live nativity scene, falling snow, and hot cocoa.

Location: Ashebrooke Subdivision in Cumming, GA. The nearest major intersection is at Kelly Mill Rd. and Bethleview.

19. Woodruff Family Christmas Lights

"HOLIDAY MAGIC" is a free nightly Atlanta holiday light show, put on annually by the Woodruff family, featuring dancing Christmas lights, inflatables, and special effects synchronized to holiday music. With a history of doing a musical tribute to Prince, this may be the funkiest family light show around. The show will open at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving and run nightly from 6 p.m. to midnight through January.

Location: 5268 Seamus Way, Powder Springs, GA

20. A Whole Lot of Christmas

This Stone Mountain family has been decorating their home for over 25 years with only the help of family, friends, and neighbors, and they’re proud to provide a “whole LOT of Christmas” each year. With a Christmas tree forest, snowflake lane, gingerbread land, North Pole Cafe, Disney section, nativity, and Santa, this family endeavor is big enough to inspire even the worst Grinch to string a light or two. Check hours of operation and details on their Facebook page when planning your trip. Admission is free, but donations are accepted for a charity of the family’s choice each year.

Location: 1833 Smokerise Summit, Stone Mountain, GA

21. Gaddy Family Christmas Light Display

For over 20 years, this family in Fayetteville has put on a Christmas light extravaganza, complete with an operating Ferris wheel and thousands of lights. There is no admission, visitors must remain in their vehicles for safety, and donations for March of Dimes and Toys for Tots are welcome. The Gaddy family keeps the lights on from Thanksgiving through January 1 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: 898 Sandy Creek Rd., Fayetteville, GA

22. Duluth's Christmas House

This crowd-favorite private home has thousands of lights; you’ll want to put a trip to see it on your winter bucket list. The display will be nightly from Friday, November 20 through December 31, from 6 p.m.-10 pm. Please keep in mind that in the event of severe weather (wind, heavy rain, or snow), they may not have the display. Check their Facebook page by 4 p.m. daily for any weather-related changes.

In addition to the lights, the family holds an annual holiday food drive for the community food pantry at First Baptist Duluth. Drop your non-perishable items in the bin at the driveway's end.

Location: 2929 Mockingbird Cir., Duluth, GA

23. Smoot Family Christmas Light Show

This home display features over 70,000 commercial LED Christmas lights and will kick off on Thanksgiving at 6 p.m. Check their Facebook page for hours of operation and up-to-the-minute information. All donations from this show go to The Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter.

Location: 3699 Autumn Dr., Acworth, GA

Good to Know: Before heading out to see these neighborhood Christmas light displays, please check their Facebook pages and websites to make sure the show is running. We’ve linked them up to make it easy for you, since there’s nothing worse than disappointing kids who are eager to see a synchronized light show.

additional reporting by Shelley Massey

It’s a known fact that the best way to get in the holiday spirit is aboard a holiday train ride, complete with hot cocoa and Christmas carols

The most magical Christmas train rides are back for the 2022 holiday season, but you better watch out—they’re filling up fast! From the Polar Express train ride to vintage steam locomotives decked all out in Christmas lights, we’ve mapped out our favorites from around the country, so you can find the perfect train to board this winter. 

To really get in the holiday spirit, deck out the whole family in matching holiday PJs and practice all the Christmas carols on the way there. It’s going to be a night to remember!

Holiday Train Rides in the West

Guy Rhodes

Polar Express | Jamestown, CA
Experience a Polar Express off the beaten track when you head up into the California foothills to Jamestown, a historic gold rush town perfectly preserved for your holiday photo backdrops. All Class tickets enjoy hot chocolate and yummy cookies as you ride along with many of the story’s characters. Once you reach the North Pole, the jolly old elf–Santa himself–will come on board to give each passenger a silver sleigh bell, the “first gift of Christmas.”

Online: railtown1897.org

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California Railroad Museum Polar Express | Sacramento, CA
The California State Railroad Museum’s Polar Express ride has everything your little elf wants in a magical experience. What really sets this railroad adventure apart is the special, vintage train cars where all the fun happens. Once you reach the North Pole, the jolly old elf—Santa himself—will come on board to give each passenger the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell. Be sure to book your tickets soon!

Online: californiarailroad.museum

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The Napa Valley Wine Train Santa Train | Napa, CA
They pull out all the stops each year, as the Wine Train fills with the sounds of the season. Guests will be treated to sing-a-longs, games, and stories, as they deliver Jolly the Bear to the North Pole. On the way back, fairies will collect letters for Santa, and the big guy himself will hand out toy bears. It's a fun-filled, action-packed journey, suitable for all ages.

Online: winetrain.com

Related: All Aboard! Magical Holiday Train Rides in the Bay Area

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Santa Train | North Bend, WA
The Northwest Railway Museum’s Santa Train has been making the trek from the North Bend depot to Santa’s Workshop (in Snoqualmie) since 1969. The trip includes a stop where families disembark for a meet and greet with Santa and his elves. They’ll find cookies and cocoa there, as well as treats to help pass the time as they wait for the all-important photo op.

Online: trainmuseum.org

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Durango-Silverton Polar Express | Durango, CO
Seeing the old narrow-gauge train lumbering loudly down the track, prettied up for the Christmas season, your little conductor might just think he’s stepped into the classic story this Polar Express ride is named for. The movie magic continues to unfold as families sip hot cocoa, sing songs, and nibble warm cookies while the train glides over snowy tracks on its way to the North Pole. They arrive to see Santa and the boy sitting in his sleigh, receiving the first gift of Christmas. On the return trip, wide-eyed onlookers relive this magic moment aboard the train, when they get serious face time with Santa and their own tiny tinkling bell to keep.

Online: durangotrain.com

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Nevada Northern Railway Polar Express | Ely, NV
Hop on board the Nevada Northern Rail, aka Santa’s Reindeer Flyer, to kick your holiday season into high gear. Passengers will board the train at the depot in Ely, Nevada before starting their trip to the North Pole. As they ride, they’ll get to hear the exciting story of Santa’s Reindeer Flyers, where both Christmas and the NNR need saving. Kids will have a chance to meet Santa when they finally arrive at the North Pole, whisper in his ear, and even deliver a Christmas letter directly to the Big Man. And, yes, pajamas are very much in style on this ride. 

Online: nnry.com

Holiday Train Rides in the Southwest

Grapevine Convention & Visitors' Bureau

Grapevine North Pole Express | Grapevine, TX
Grapevine’s North Pole Express is a standing favorite among Texas families, and we can see why. This year, expect to hop aboard the festively decorated Grapevine Vintage Railroad train cars, where you’ll be greeted by jolly elves handing out souvenir mugs filled with Frosty Snow Milk. Then it’s on to Reindeer Ridge to meet up with Mrs. Claus, who hands out special bells to each child aboard. It all ends with a Christmas stage spectacular featuring Santa himself, and a post-show photo session your little one won’t soon forget!

Find out more: grapevinetexasusa.com

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The Magical Christmas Journey | Clarkdale, AZ
It turns out that Santa and Mrs. Claus like winter in the desert, too. Families can take a Magical Christmas Journey with the jolly pair all season long. It starts at the railroad depot, where kids can get a bird’s eye view of a lighted Christmas town. Then it’s time to board the train (with inside and outside seating options) for a one-hour journey that takes families through a tunnel before emerging at the North Pole on the other side. Once there, riders get to meet Santa and his elves for photos and a simple gift.

Insider tip: Check out the perks that come with the Magical Journey VIP Kids’ Club to add a bit more magic to your holiday experience.

Online: verdecanyonrr.com

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Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel Polar Express | Williams, AZ
Before The Polar Express made it to the big screen, back when it was just a classic children’s story, the Grand Canyon Railway was bringing it to life in the wilderness of Williams, Arizona. Just like in the book, the 60-minute ride leaves a sleepy town and heads out into the forest before a clearing in the trees reveals the North Pole, brightly lit for all to see. Don't forget to wear your Christmas jammies! Make this a family holiday tradition and make your reservations today, as space is limited.

Insider Tip: While you can definitely come for the train, many families tack on an overnight stay at the historic Grand Canyon Hotel to fully take in the magic of the season.

Online: thetrain.com

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The North Pole Flyer | Austin, TX
Everything's bigger in Texas, including a ride on the North Pole Flyer, a special two-hour excursion on a diesel locomotive that features a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, all-you-can-drink hot cocoa, and a holiday cookie. Each car is decorated for the season where passengers enjoy a live reading of The North Pole Flyer—the railway's own personalized holiday book. Santa “checks your list twice” and poses for photographs before handing out a gift to each child. 

Tip: This trip’s usually sold out by Oct., so if you’re thinking about getting tickets, make the move soon.

Find out more: austinsteamtrain.org

Holiday Train Rides in the Midwest

holiday express polar express train
South Dakota Department of Tourism

Holiday Express on the 1880 Train | Hill City, SD
Holiday revelers can board the oldest continuous running tour railroad in the country for the Holiday Express. The one-hour ride takes visitors through the beautiful Black Hills to the North Pole on the 1880 Train (which gets a holiday makeover of its own) while snacking on cookies, a sweet treat, and hot chocolate! When the train stops, Santa gets on and hands out a small sleigh bell to every kiddo. It’s the perfect holiday tradition.

Online: 1880train.com

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The Polar Express with the Branson Scenic Railway | Branson, MO
Ride to the North Pole and pick up Santa for this magical ride. During the trip, the book "The Polar Express ™" is read aloud and hot chocolate and cookies are served by the Chefs. Santa joins the ride at the North Pole and visits each car giving each passenger a special gift. Christmas carolers and the hobo are also on board the train for extra merriment.

Online: bransontrain.com

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The Polar Express with the French Lick Scenic Railway | French Lick, IN
Hot cocoa and cookies are waiting for your aboard the Polar Express in this fabulous journey that the little ones won't soon forget. Don your jammies and bring all your holiday cheer to meet Santa and his crew aboard the French Lick Scenic Railway as it is transformed for the holiday season. 

Online: frenchlickthepolarexpressride.com

 

Holiday Train Rides in the Southeast

polar express train with santa christmas
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Blue Ridge Scenic Santa Express | Blue Ridge, GA
Just a day trip from Atlanta, The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad’s collection of antique trains that run between Blue Ridge and McCaysville, Georgia includes The Santa Express during the holidays. Go for the Christmas stories, songs, and characters—including Santa, of course—and enjoy checking out the quaint town of Blue Ridge following the trip. Children will receive a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway jingle bell, candy cane, and activity packet while on board. 

Online: brscenic.com

Related: Ride the Rails: 5 Holiday Train Rides Near Atlanta

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Denton Farmpark’s Country Christmas Train | Denton, NC
‘Tis the season to take a ride on the Handy Dandy Railroad. It’s all part of the holiday activities at the Denton Farm Park, where families can sing carols and hear a Christmas story or two at the church, meet animal friends at the petting zoo, and of course, board the festive train to tour the park and enjoy the lights. Settle in to watch the story of the Nativity while you’re on board. Don’t forget to check out the wagon and pony rides after you sit for a pic with Santa (additional fees apply).

Online: dentonfarmpark.com

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Great Smoky Mountains Polar Express Train Ride | Bryson City, NC
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s Polar Express train is one of the best around. The ride mirrors sweet details from the movie, right down to the music playing overhead. At the halfway point of this just-over-an-hour-long round trip, the train will stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, so he can hand out a special gift to each little boy and girl aboard. Expect music, dancing, and sing-along carols! Plan on arriving one hour before your departure time.

Online: gsmr.com

Related: 17 Winter Wonderlands That Go Crazy for Christmas

Holiday Train Rides in the Northeast

ADK/Mark Simmon

Polar Express on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad | Utica, NY
All aboard for a two-hour round trip ride that leaves from Utica Station and arrives at the North Pole! Guests will interact with hot chocolate chefs, listen to The Polar Express (narrated by Liam Neeson) and have a meet-and-greet with the jolly man in red. Pajamas are encouraged! In order to ensure that you are able to travel on your desired dates, please make reservations early as this event sells out every year.

Online: adirondackrr.com

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The Polar Express with the Catskill Mountain Railroad | Kingston, NY
The magic of Christmas is here as soon as you board the Polar Express and set out for the North Pole. Santa's helpers will be onboard to read this famous story to your family and Santa will board to take pictures with kids and celebrate the holiday season. 

Online: catskillmountainrailroad.com

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Santa Christmas Tree Express | Honesdale, PA
Your Kiddos can't wait to see Santa and choose your Christmas tree? Well, here's a way to do both in the same trip! The Stourbridge Line in Honesdale runs train rides to Dein Nurseries where you can choose your own Christmas tree, sip hot chocolate on the way there,  and be greeted by a happy Santa. Passengers will have approximately one hour to visit Santa and choose and purchase that special Christmas tree. The trees are loaded onto the train's flatcar. The staff from Dein Nurseries will assist you in securing it to your vehicle at the Honesdale Station for an additional cost of $10.

Online: poconomountains.com

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Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s Polar Express | Cumberland, MD
Take a magical ride over bridges and through tunnels from the Cumberland Station to the North Pole and back on WMR’s Polar Express train ride. You’ll meet Santa, of course, but not before enjoying a platform show, a reading of the beloved children’s book (complete with dancing waiters) and cookies and cocoa to fill your bellies. Dress in your holiday jammies to fit in with the other passengers, and make sure to bring your phone is fully charged to capture those magical memories digitally. You’ll look back on this ride for years to come!

Online: wmsr.com

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New Hope Railroad Santa's Steam Spectacular | New Hope, PA
A leisurely journey through beautiful Bucks County is what you’ll find on Santa’s Steam Spectacular adventure aboard the historic #40 steam locomotive. On board, your kids will be among many others sporting their red and green pajama best, each one clamoring to get a glimpse of Santa and Mrs. Claus. While they’re eagerly awaiting a visit from Santa, kids and their parents can sip hot cocoa, snack on cookies, and sing Christmas tunes.

Tip: Be sure to order your commemorative Santa photo to remember this special holiday trip.

Online: newhoperailroad.com

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Holiday Trains on the Strasburg Rail Road | Ronks, PA
The Strasburg Rail Road Christmas trains are a bonanza of holiday goodness because they don’t offer just one train. They’ve got three festive rides for families! Santa’s Paradise Express runs from just after Thanksgiving through Dec. 22nd, and it’s a great way to take the family on the oldest operating train in the U.S. for a meet-and-greet with Santa. You can also book a passage on the Night Before Christmas Train, where a stocking-capped reader will recite the classic Christmas poem to jammie-clad kids as they click-clack along the track. Then there’s Santa’s Christmas Trolley, especially for kids 11 and younger. It’s a chance to sit on Santa’s lap during a 45-minute out-and-back trip to Paradise.

Online: strasburgrailroad.com

All aboard! For the ultimate train adventure, step aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train into an elegantly restored early 20th-century Pullman car for a taste of what premium class train travel was like in the early 1900s.  During the weekends in April and May, Afternoon Tea service is offered for families (kids 10 and up)—read on for all the details on why the Napa Wine train is a truly unique, special occasion experience that your family will not soon forget!

History

In 1864, the railroad was built in order to take visitors arriving from San Francisco up to a resort in Calistoga. The Napa Wine train’s inaugural journey began in 1989 and has been a staple in Napa ever since with the railroad and train playing an integral part to Napa’s growth and development. 

Scenery

The 36 mile round trip journey to St. Helena starts at the Napa train station and showcases exquisite wine country scenery (and the famous Napa sign!) as it rambles idyllically along Hwy 29 past 100+ vineyards. Of all the ways to enjoy Napa scenery with your family, the Napa Wine train really lets you sit back and relax… all without a designated driver.

The Experience

Check-in starts at the train station where a wine store, lounge and restrooms await. Boarding is by groups and done so via the Locks of Love Bridge, where a token of your love can be left with the collection. A professional photo is taken before boarding of which the digital copy is complimentary with physical copies available for purchase following the tour. 

Stepping into the train car truly feels like time travel with rich mahogany panels coupled with tasteful brass accents engulfing the car. A champagne (or cider) toast sets the right tone and as the train pulls away, attentive staff offer four types of tea: Yunan black, earl grey, chamomile and rooibos. 

First, a carrot ginger soup (quite possibly our favorite part of the meal—next to dessert, of course) was served followed by a beet salad. Finger sandwiches followed with the lobster vul-au-vent (fancy speak for a pastry shell filled with lobster) and radish and creme fraiche being favorites. 

Cheese and grapes, macarons, bon-bons (how could there not be bon-bons on a train?) and other sweet treats finished the tea service by which time we were bursting at the seams. We also loved that periodically during the trip, narratives and insight is given by the staff regarding the history of certain wineries and interesting facts and tidbits we otherwise wouldn’t have known. This made it seem like a fun history lesson set in an actual piece of living history! 

Good to know: 

  • While the afternoon tea service is for the 10 and up crowd, other tours and experiences are available with no minimum age. Seeing as two or three hours is a long time for anyone to sit still, parents of the younger set might want to bring some form of entertainment  
  • Diaper changing is not permitted on board and children aren’t allowed to wander the cars 
  • The Afternoon Tea service menu is not modifiable but we were told other tours can change their menus with advanced notice 
  • The two types of seating are booths and plush armchairs and we recommend a booth because eating in an armchair seems like a recipe for spilling with kids  
  • Tickets range from $245-$295/person which makes it great for a special occasion celebration

Sponsored by the Napa Valley Wine Train but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer

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Holiday train outings, or rides on the “Polar Express” can be a magical and festive event for kids. Some of these train rides are directly inspired by the “Polar Express” book and movie, some are all about Santa and his little helpers and most have some form of refreshment, singing, performance, and even a little gift. But take note! These rides tend to sell out pretty early, so if you want to take a train trip to the North Pole this holiday season, you’ll need to start looking now. We’ve picked the best holiday train rides to take in 2021, and all are located less than two hours (give or take 10 minutes!) away from central Manhattan by car. Book now and enjoy the ride!

Holiday Train Shows

NYBG

If you can't make it to an actual locomotive, you can still take in one (or more) of the magical model train shows happening this holiday season. 

The New York Botanical Garden Train Show
The New York Botanical Garden celebrates the 30th anniversary of its holiday train show in 2021. This magical display features more than 175 New York landmarks re-created with nuts, bark, leaves, and other plant parts as designed by Laura Busse Dolan and the creative team at Applied Imagination. 

Humming along between familiar sites such as the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, Macy’s and the original Penn Station, large-scale model trains cover almost a half-mile of track across rustic bridges and trestles, through tunnels and past cascading waterfalls. And don't forget to look up at the trains zooming overhead!

On select dates, you can also check out the garden's holiday light display, NYBG GLOW, which in addition to dazzling light creations, features music, dance, food and more. 

Nov. 20 - Jan. 23, 2022
Tickets: $32/adults;$30/student/senior; $18/kids two–12; free for children under two. Combo train show/GLOW:  $35/adults (13-64), $20/kids two 0 12.
Enid A. Haupt Conservatory
The New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Blvd.
Bronx
718-817-8700
Online:  nybg.org

Jason P. via Yelp

Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection  at the New-York Historical Society

This year, this holiday train tradition goes to the amusement park! Joining a selection of toy trains, figurines, and miniature models from the renowned Jerni Collection, 2021's festive display includes never-before-seen toy rides. Visitors can marvel at a miniature Ferris wheel, carousel, blimp ride, and roller coaster. 

Aside from being fun for the kids, the Jerni Collection, which includes hand-crafted and hand-painted pieces dating from approximately 1850 to 1940, is considered one of the finest collections of antique trains and toys in the world.

Tickets: Adults/$22; Seniors/Educators/Active Military/$17; Students/$13; Kids (five–13 years old)/$6; Kids four and under/free
Admission is pay-as-you-wish from 6-8 p.m. on Fridays 

Nov. 19-March 13, 2022
170 Central Park West at 77th St.
Upper West Side
212-873-3400
Online: nyhistory.org

Catskill Mountain Railroad

If you're still a little nervous about being in an enclosed space with strangers, check out the Catskill Mountain Railroad's Catskill Mountain Express! This version of a holiday train ride invites passengers onto open-air trains for a 60-minute journey to Santa's Workshop at the North Pole. Passengers get a cookie from the local bakery, and a wave from Santa as the train passes. Kids also get a small gift after the North Pole is reached. (Handwarmers are sold on-site, and you're welcome to bring blankets!)

Tickets: $29/adults; $23/kids 
Nov. 26-Dec. 23
55 Plaza Rd. 
Kingston, NY 
845-332-4854
Online: catskillmountainrailroad.com

Wayne Tristate Santa Train

Janice M. via Yelp

Location: Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, Wayne NJ (1hr from NYC) 

Date: Saturday, December 18

Price: TBD 

Online: tristaterail.org

Details are still being determined for this trip; "Like" Tristate Rail's Facebook page to get updates. This hour-long experience will give kids a chance to meet Santa, who will also be giving each child a present and a candy cane. The trip will also have a few special guest appearances by other characters, and children will receive a small toy and an activity book. The train is equipped with bathrooms and is wheelchair accessible. See Covid-19 protocol here.

Whippany NJ Polar Express

Erin H. via Yelp

Location: 1 Railroad Plz, Whippany NJ (1hr 15m from NYC) 

Date: Select dates Nov. 1-Dec. 31

Price: $42-$80/depending on class and date

Online: whippanythepolarexpressride.com

A popular holiday train ride option, this Polar Express has been refreshed during its year off in 2020. Seating has also been adjusted to improve the visibility of the show for passengers. Choose from Coach Class or First Class for your two-hour journey (First Class is in a restored 1940s car). This spectacular train ride is themed around "The Polar Express" movie, and it sets the mood by playing the sweeping soundtrack during the ride. Passengers make their way to "the North Pole," where hot chocolate and cookies are served, "dancing chefs," perform, and there is a readalong of the children's book that the movie was based on. A small gift is included in the price—a silver sleigh bell (and a ceramic Polar Express mug if you're in First Class)—and throughout the ride, families can enjoy musical performances by characters from the movie. First Class passengers get the benefits of larger windows, plush seating, and plenty of space for legs and little ones.

See Covid-19 protocols here

Santa Express

Railroad Museum of New England via Yelp

Location: 242 E Main St, Thomaston CT ( 1hr 50m from NYC)

Date: Every weekend (Fri.-Sun.) between Thanksgiving and Christmas

Price: Santa Express - Coach: $29.50/person; First Class: $59.50/person; $1 for kids 2 and under

Online: rmne.org

This train ride lasts about an hour and 20 minutes and gives families a chance to interact with Santa and his elves. Each child will receive a small gift from Santa's toy bag while elves and other characters lead passengers in carols and singalongs. First class travelers will also be served hot cocoa and get more comfortable seating. Afternoon and evening rides are available, with evening rides being lit up with Christmas lights. Keep in mind that there are no restrooms on the trains.

Phillipsburg Polar Express

Eileen M. via Yelp

Location: 100 Elizabeth St, Phillipsburg NJ (1hr 50m from NYC)

Date: Nov. 26-Dec. 19, various times & dates 

Price: $42/adult, $32/child, $5/lap sitters (under 2)

Online: 877trainride.com

The Phillipsburg rendition of the Polar Express train ride includes music from the movie, a reading of the book, hot chocolate and cookies, a gift of a sleigh bell, and more. There will be performances and jugglers, as well as visits from Santa and other characters. Travelers are encouraged to wear their pajamas to this whimsical ride. Tickets for certain dates have already sold out, so if you're interested in this one, act fast to get your tickets! 

Essex Steam Holiday rides

Essex Steam Train

Location: 1 Railroad Ave, Essex CT (2hr 10m from NYC)

Date: Nov. 19-Dec. 23, various dates & times 

Price: $45-$75 

Online: essexsteamtrain.com

[Editor's Note: Sadly, this train trip is already sold out for the 2021 season!] The North Pole Express is an hour and a half ride that turns each train car into an interactive musical performance of "The Night Before Christmas." Expect cookies and cocoa and visits from Mrs. and Mrs. Claus. First Class tickets for the North Pole Express are already sold out, so get your tickets soon to ensure a spot.

—Yuliya Geikhman

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While you pen your New Year’s resolutions consider adding a new tradition: the family bucket list. Whether you’re new to the area or have called DC home for decades, there is always something new to see and hidden gems to explore. Not sure where to start? We’ve created a seasonal checklist of things to see and do in DMV so you can create an epic road map for the year ahead (and, while you’re at it, the decade!). Happy New Year!

 

photo: Toddlin’ Across America 

WINTER

1. Snow ball fight! If DC is lucky enough to get a good dusting of snow this winter, the Washington DC Snowball Fight Association (yes, it exists) hosts a flashmob-style, family-friendly snowball fight. Stay tuned to their Facebook page for deets.

2. Cure cabin fever by sliding, swinging, climbing, and jumping around at one of DC’s indoor playgrounds.

3. Skate circles around the Pentagon Row Ice Rink, and then thaw off by snuggling up at one of the rinks fire pits.

4. Visit Mount Vernon, the estate once occupied by George Washington, where this time of the year is filled with super fun candlelight tours, chocolate making demos, and camel sightings (really!).

photo: Kelle Hampton 

5. Take a break from the brisk with a spot of hot tea at a “Girlie Girl” tea party.

6. Grab your coats and some hot chocolate, and head out to spy one of the DMV’s spectacular light displays.

teds-poptart

photo: Ted’s Bulletin

7. Get stuffed on handmade pop tarts (think: peppermint fudge) at Ted’s Bulletin. P.S. Don’t worry, there’s still some time before swimsuit season.

8. Let your toddler explore mazes, obstacle courses, tunnels, and slides at Kid Junction, a 10,000 square foot fully-enclosed facility in Chantilly, VA.

9. Want to save some money? Snag a parent-approved free kid’s meal.

10. Spend the morning at the National Aquarium. With over 750 species of underwater critters, puffin feedings, a 4D Immersion Theater, and more, the aquarium has something for everyone.

11. It’s the season of giving so volunteer at Food and Friends, where you and your minis can prep and deliver hot meals to people living with challenging illnesses.

photo: iStock

12. Eat dinner by a toasty fire at one of the DMVs restaurants that keep their fireplaces going all winter long. .

13. Chase butterflies at the Smithsonian’s indoor Butterfly Habitat Garden. Bonus: The climate-controlled environment is kept at a toasty 80 degrees.?

14. Spend the day—watching boaters, exploring historic houses, and noshing on cupcakes—in beautiful Georgetown.

15. Warm up with a bowl of chili (and/or a half smoke) from D.C.’s iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl.

photo: Oorkaan 

16. Experience a jazz concert designed for young music lovers at the Kennedy Center’s Terrace Gallery.

17. This wouldn’t be a bucket list if we didn’t encourage you to go skiing or snowboarding; and the best part is that you don’t even have to travel far to hit the slopes.

SPRING

18. The Kennedy Center opens its doors for visitors to check out local, national and international talent for free.

19. Kayak, paddleboat or SUP (aka stand up paddle boarding) Head over to the Key Bridge Boathouse to take a class or rent a boat or board.

fall festival, petting zoo, animals, goat, farm, girl, picking pumpkin, farm, festival, fall, harvest, october, september
photo: Laura Green

20. Visit the animals Head to the National Zoo, the Reston Petting Zoo or Brookside Gardens Butterfly exhibit.

21. Ride the Capital Wheel at National Harbor But don’t stop there. National Harbor is a families playground.  

photo: iStock 

22. Check out a new bilingual story time at the National Gallery of Art. No advanced registration required and it’s free.

23. Play and stay dry at an indoor playground.If you haven’t visited Badlands yet, a rainy summer day is the perfect time to do it! 

24. Enjoy flowering tees with a treetop adventure.

25. Go back in time at dinosaur-centric destinations.

26. Pack a picnic basket – or toss an extra applesauce pouch into the diaper bag – and chow down next to a towering statue of Teddy Roosevelt or between zip lines at the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring Friends School.

photo: Sarah Warren via Willow Warren Photography

27. Waterside fun isn’t just for summer. Check out all the options at District Wharf.

28. Stretch your vocal chords – see what we did there? – with kid-friendly sing-alongs at Bobby McKey’s.

29. Go off to see the Wizard at Watkins Regional Park Wizard of Oz Playground Don’t forget your camera! There’s a real life yellow brick road at this park for your crew to skip down. 

30. Live out a real-life “How It’s Made” episode at factory tours for kids.

31. Find yourself stuck with nothing to do on a Friday? No problem.

photo: iStock

32. Put your feet up and let the kids handle dinner after they take a class at a local Cookology or Wegmans

33. Take to the streets with DC by Foot, a walking tour company that gives free, kid-friendly tours of the National Mall, Capitol Hill and U Street.

34. Enjoy dinner and a show – and we aren’t talking “Peppa Pig” on an iPad.

35. Find more than cherry blossoms at the National Mall.

36. Take the museum experience outside and head to an art show in Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood, Bethesda and Occoquan.

SUMMER

37. Take in an outdoor movie. Check out this DMV-wide schedule for family friendly flicks. 

38. Pick some berries Wherever you live, there is a pick-your-own farm not too far away.

photo: Downtown Silver Spring

39. Get wet. Summer = splashing. If you don’t belong to a pool or you haven’t found your favorite splash park, what are you waiting for?

40. Roam around Roosevelt Island It’s actually one of the most baby-friendly places to hike in the DMV. 

41. Spend a relaxing morning at Glen Echo Park. The puppet shows for kids are on point here. FYI!

photo:Joe Flood via flickr

42. Stroll around a classic foodie market Don’t miss Eastern Market or Union Market.

43. Head to the Chesapeake for a day or spend the night Follow geotrails, go boating, hunt for fossils, and more!

44. Explore underground at Luray Caverns Whether you want to tire the kids out on an endless hike, ride an elevator 34 stories down, or listen to nature’s pipe organ, the opportunity to go spelunking is just a cave away.

photo: Urban Pirates

45. Take an Urban Pirates Ride on the Potomac Perfect that pirate aaaarrrrrgggghhh!

46. Three words: yoga with goats Yes, goats. What more is there to say about that?

47. Take your team out to the ballgame Of course we’re rooting for the Nationals.

48. Oooh and ahhh at fireworks on the 4th of July Scope out the best spots to set up here.

photo: Smithsonian Folklife Festival

49. Share culture at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival This free festival, which features master artisans and tradition bearers, takes place for two weeks every summer.

50. Take in an outdoor show Check out Wolf Trap Children’s Theater in the Woods or the Strathmore Backyard Theater.

51. Check out some of your favorite monuments at night. These ones are particularly stunning under the stars:
JeffersonFDRLincolnMLK

52. Relax with Jazz in the Garden Insider secret: Jazz is a great way to lull a sleepy baby into dreamland. 

53. Forget bowling. Try the locally-invented tame of duckpin at White Oak Duckpin Lanes.  

Florham Park Roller Rink skating

photo: Florham Park 

54. Roll around on some skates Show off your moves at Skate N Fun Zone or Temple Hills Skate Palace.

55. Stretch imaginations at a fairy garden.

56. Eat all of the ice cream With this many cool treats, there’s no time for watching that waistline.

57. Get a new look before heading back to school.

FALL
58. Take to the great outdoors to admire the colorful fall foliage. Or hop on a train if that’s more your speed.

59. Find all things pumpkin at your local grocery store, but for the real deal – plus fun slides, petting zoos and gourds gone wild – check out an areat pumpkin patch.

60. Doctors aren’t the only things apples can keep at bay. A trip to a pick-your-own orchard can be a great way to stave off the ever-charming “I’m booooored” blues.

 

photo: StockSnap

61. Inspire budding artists among the established ones at the National Gallery of Art’s Drop-in Art Making. New activities are offered weekly.

62. Once a year, the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute opens to the public for a glimpse at its work in protecting and preserving wildlife.

63. Get lost in a corn maze.

64. Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month at Fiesta DC.

65. Expose young ones to European culture at the annual Kids Euro Festival, which features the continent’s most talented children’s entertainers.

66. Channel your inner police officer or FBI agent at the National Law Enforcement Museum’s Family Fun Day.

photo: Strasburg Rail Road

67. Buy tickets for a Santa train experience. Most tickets go on sale by mid-Oct.

68. Start thinking about those holiday cards, people. Snap a family pic in front of one of DC’s coolest backdrops.

photo: Meghan Yudes Meyers

69. Take a ride on the wild side at a nearby theme park. Watch for themed events for Halloween and the winter holidays.

70. Unwind at a family-friendly winery.

photo: La Mesa Oktoberfest 

71. More of a beer fan? Family-friendly breweries are also a thing.

72. Step away from the pots and pans, and let someone else take care of the dishes.

73. Build a Halloween costume.

photo: Rawpixel

74. And then map out a plan for trick-or-treating.

75. Paint your own pottery.

76. Reach for the stars from the comfort of a cool reclining chair at the David M. Brown Planetarium in Arlington, the Planetarium at Rock Creek Park, or the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Albert Einstein Planetarium.

photo: picjumbo.com via Pexels

77. Go for a spin on DC’s best carousels.

78. Get to know Northern Virginia by exploring Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun County.

79. Or branch out and take an awesome day trip.

80. Explore DC’s cultural side at museums that aren’t necessarily Smithsonians.

photo: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi via Pexels

81. Ready to take a hike? Here’s where to go with a stroller.

82. Families that learn together, grow together. Take a parent-and-me class in cooking, yoga, art or French.

83. OK, so money doesn’t grow on trees. That much is clear. Go see where it really comes from.

84. Spend time at Glen Echo Park by taking in a puppet show and sticking your hands in the touch tank at the Glen Echo Park Aquarium.

photo: iStock

85. Take your little fishes to an indoor pool.

86. Practice parkour, swing from the rafters, climb warped walls and play dodgeball on trampolines at these obstacle courses.

87. Skip the sitter and go on a family date night.!

88. Location is everything, and we are lucky to be close to so much American history. Head down I-95 to Colonial Williamsburg. Take a detour to Great Wolf Lodge – a hotel and water park in one – to earn extra points with the kids. Stay the night or get a day pass.

photo: iStock

89. Take comfort in a bowl of soup as the mercury slowly falls.

90. DC isn’t the only place for museums. Hop on I-95 north to Baltimore to check out all Baltimore has to offer.

91. Go where climbing the walls won’t end with someone in time out: rock climbing gyms.

92. Attend a campfire program and snack on s’mores in Fairfax.

93. Put your game face on and head to a haunted house.

94. Experience history beyond museums at destinations like Abe Lincoln’s assassination site in the District or the Virginia home of Thomas Jefferson or the USS Constellation Civil War sailing ship in Maryland.

photo: Gina S. via Yelp

95. You know how the best things in life are free? In DC, that’s definitely true!

96. Take a tour of the Capitol or White House. This is the nation’s capital, after all!

—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Ayren Jackson-Cannady, Tricia Mirchandani, Stephanie Kanowitz

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If tracks, whistles and shiny engines get your little conductor’s boiler bubbling, it’s time to hop on a steam train. From old logging locomotives to tank engines to antique diesels, there are plenty of train adventures to keep mini engineers chugging along, all year-long. Read on for our guide to riding the rails in the Pacific Northwest.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
The small town of Elbe is heaven on earth for steam train buffs and it’s where families can easily spend a whole railroad-themed weekend. Stay in a converted rail car at the Hobo Inn, have breakfast at the Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Company and board the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad for Mineral. Enjoy the trip over trestles and bridges, check out the old logging camp in Mineral and grab a snack in the café car. Then, head back to Elbe for lunch at the Pizza Express.

The number 17 leaves from the Elbe depot three times a day on weekends. Plan to arrive a bit early to grab a bite to eat and look around the gift shop or allow time to do that afterwards. During the excursion, traingoers will enjoy a 40 minute ride through the forested foothills of Mt. Rainier, alongside a mountain stream. The Engineer will be sure to blow the whistle when you’re coming up on a great view (Psst… there’s a wonderful view of the mountain at one point, but of course, it’s not guaranteed to be “out”).

photo: Helen Walker Green

When you reach Mineral, you’ll have 40 minutes to explore this historic mining town and show your mini conductor what life was like in a logging camp during the 19th century. You’ll also have a chance to see the living quarters and some of the amazing tools used. There are great old engines to look at in Mineral too – kids can climb in the cab and ring the bell. And you can see the engine sheds and chat with volunteers working on restoring the old engines. Then, the whistle will blow, the conductor will call “all aboard” and it’s time to head back to Elbe.

photo: Helen Walker Green

Good to Know
1. There’s a snack bar on board that serves tea, coffee, soda and snacks (think candy and chips).

2. There’s only one restroom on board, so it’s best to go at the depot before you board or take advantage of the restrooms in Mineral.

3. Since this is a popular trip, we suggest buying your tickets online. However, you can buy tickets at the depot if space is available.

4. If you’re looking for a sweet treat after your trip, head to the Copper Creek Inn Restaurant. Located just past the depot in the town of Ashford, the Copper Creek Restaurant serves an epic slice of mouthwatering blackberry pie. And if the weather’s nice, there’s a fantastic little playground in Ashford perfect for burning off the sugar-high.

5. Coloring pages featuring the trains in the collection can be downloaded here.

Special Events
The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad has some fantastic special events including the Pumpkin Express every October where families can visit the railroad’s own pumpkin patch and take home a free souvenir pumpkin as well as enjoy carnival games and a costume contest. Then, there’s the magical day with Santa aboard The Santa Express, the Bunny Express every Easter and special Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day trains.

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and Museum
54124 Mountain Hwy. E.
Elbe, Wa 98330
360-569-7959
Online: mrsr.com or map it

Schedule: Weekends, May-Oct. Trains depart at 10 a.m., 12:45 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. Open at other times of year for special events.

Fares: $32/Adults (12 & older); $28/Seniors, Military & AAA members; $26/Youth (ages 5-12); $18/Kids (ages 3 & 4); 2 & under Free

Journey time: 120 minutes including stop in Mineral.

ADA: One of the train cars is wheelchair accessible and there is an accessible restroom on the train. There are wheelchair lifts at both Elbe and Mineral. There is a substantial amount of gravel in Mineral (wheelchairs should be kept to the sidewalks to avoid getting stuck).

Northwest Railway Museum
If you’ve got train crazy kids, then you’ve probably been here before. This, of course, is Thomas the Tank Engine’s home away from home when he visits the Pacific Northwest. The annual Day Out With Thomas is a huge hit! Kids get to ride a train pulled by their favorite steamie, have their photo taken with Thomas and Sir Topham Hatt, play with lots of Thomas toys, bounce to their heart’s content and generally come home tired and happy.

But there’s more to the Northwest Railway Museum than just the friendly tank engine. The museum is located in Snoqualmie’s 1890 Victorian depot; it’s open year-round and free to enter. It’s actually housed in the former lady’s waiting room and freight room and has lots of interesting railroad history exhibits and a fantastic model railway kids can take a turn driving. There’s also a gift shop in the former gentlemen’s waiting room.

photos: Helen Walker Green

Antique trains, some steam and some diesel, run between Snoqualmie and North Bend from April through October. You can board at either station and get a round trip or return. Both Snoqualmie and North Bend have lots to offer families, so it’s a super day out. After stopping at Snoqualmie, the westbound train journeys up to an overlook at the top of Snoqualmie Falls. Psst… we recommend allowing some time in your day for this excursion!

photo: Richard R. Anderson/Northwest Railway Museum

Good to Know
1. The Snoqualmie Depot and Museum is open year-round from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

2. You can purchase your tickets at the original ticket window, just like passengers did back in the 19th century. Regular tickets are not available to purchase online but you can purchase Halloween Train and Santa Train tickets online. Day Out With Thomas tickets are also available online (check the Northwest Railway Museum’s website starting in February for more information).

3. There is no admission charge to visit the depot, museum and grounds. However, donations are encouraged and appreciated.

Special Events
The Northwest Railway Museum hosts a ghostly Halloween Train and festive Santa Train. It’s also fun to visit in August during Snoqualmie Railroad Days – a community celebration of the town’s railroad and logging history and the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe.

Northwest Railway Museum
38625 SE King St.,
Snoqualmie, Wa 98065
425-888-3030
Online: trainmuseum.org or map it

Schedule: Steam trains run weekends, April through October. Special trains run in December as well as on Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Father’s Day, Labor Day and Fourth of July.

Fares: $20/Adults (12 & older); $18/Seniors (62 & older); $12/Children (2-12); Under 2 Free

Journey time: 75 minutes round trip between Snoqulamie and North Bend and to Snoqualmie Falls.

ADA: Northwest Railway Museum coaches are historically accurate, which means they have limited doorway widths and steep stairwells, so are not fully accessible to persons with disabilities. Train crews are always prepared to assist passengers when entraining or detraining. They can also use a hand-crank wheel chair lift for passengers. Please advise the train crew about your special needs prior to boarding, so they may best meet your requirements.

Alberni Pacific Railway
Bet you didn’t know there was a railway on Vancouver Island, did you? But there is and the trains were once used for logging in the Alberni Valley. For a taste of old-time Canadian railways, board the No.7 at the 1912 Canadian Pacific station in Alberni. This 1929 Baldwin logging locomotive will take you for a journey through the beautiful forest to McClean Mill—a steam operated saw mill. The coaches are actually cabooses, refitted with seats and three are open and two covered (lovely for a beautiful summer or fall day trip).

photo:  Alberni Pacific Railway

The conductor is happy to answer questions from your mini engine crew while riding the rails. And he or she may even get to chat with the engineer and fireman at the station. When you arrive at McClean Mill you’ll have a guided tour of the mill and logging camp. Psst… be sure to fill up with some Logger’s Chili or a McClean Burger at the Steam Pot Cafe and visit the Mill Store gift shop before you leave. And don’t forget to ask the gift shop staff about the Children’s Stamp Tour, where kiddos can collect stamps on their tour of the mill.

photo: Mark Sundstrom via flickr

Special Events
Avast there, matey! Journey from the high seas to the rails with the Alberni Pacific’s Pirate Train. There’s also a Trick or Treat Train at Halloween, a Teddy Bear Picnic Train and a Train Robbery Father’s Day Special. For grownups, book a trip on the Wine Steam Train where you will stop at the Chase & Warren Estate Winery.

Alberni Pacific Railway
5633 Smith Rd.,
Port Alberni, Bc V9Y 8M1
250-723-1376
Online: welcome-alberni-pacific-steam-railway or map it

Schedule: Daily, during the summer months. Check online for special events throughout the year.

Fares: Vary, depending on the time of year. Check the schedule online.

Journey time: 35 minutes each way

Tickets: Purchase online or at the station. Walk up tickets may be available on the day of your visit, space permitting.

photo: Doug Hay via flickr

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad (Battle Ground, Yacolt & Chelatchie Prairie Railway)
This rustic Victorian railroad opened in 1888 as a logging and passenger railroad. It runs between Yacolt and Chelatchie Prairie. See if your little engineer can spot what the 1929 steam engine has in common with Thomas. (Hint: it’s a tank engine, meaning that it doesn’t pull a coal tender behind it but carries its fuel, oil and water in large tanks mounted on top of the boiler and behind the cab). This was an advantage for branch lines as it meant the locomotive could easily operate in reverse, so this is why Thomas has his very own branch line.

This steamie will take you from Yacolt through forests and tunnels, past farms and the Lewis River. See what wildlife you can spot along the way. On the return leg, the train stops at Moulton Station, where your family can take a short walk to scenic Yacolt Falls.

Special Events
Stick ‘em up! Revisit the old days of the Wild West with a train robbery special. Will the robbers get away with the loot? In addition to this wild excursion, Chelatchie Prairie RR hosts Fall Leaves specials, the Headless Horseman Halloween Train (ride if you dare) and the Steam Winter Spectacular (featuring Santa!). However, the highlight is definitely the Christmas Tree Special Train (it’s an antique diesel, but we had to show the diesels some love too). Take the train out to a tree farm, pick your tree and the crew will load and offload it for you. You’ll also get a great deal on a tree. At just $60 for a family of four, the prices are so good it’s almost like getting the train ride free. What a lovely twist on a seasonal tradition.

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad
207 S. Railroad Ave.,
Yacolt, Wa 98675
360-686-3559
Online: chelatchieprairierr.org or Map it

Schedule: Varies throughout the year. Check their website for special events Dec. through May.

Fares: $20/Adults (12 & older); $19/Seniors (60 & older); $15/Youth (5-12); $13/Kids (ages 2-4); Under 2 Free. Adult boarding passes are good for a free wine tasting at Moulton Falls Winery.

Journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes roundtrip

Tickets: Reserve online or buy in the depot if available.

photo: Douglas Auberg

Chehalis-Centralia Railroad
A 1916 steam locomotive pulls the train from this vintage Chehalis station. See if you can spot Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens as you wind through the Chehalis River Valley. The Milwaukee Road track crosses several wooden trestles and passes many historic farmsteads and country homes.

You can choose from two destinations and take either a simple coach run or a dining train. Regular coach runs go to Milburn – where your family will enjoy watching the engine crews run around the train with the locomotive in order to put it on the other end! You can also take a Riverview Coach to Ruth at certain times of the year. You’ll steam alongside the Chehalis River, through forests and farmlands. If you and the kids want to dress up and dine out in style, you can also take a Dinner Train to Ruth. Families will dine in a refurbished 1920’s dining car, with white linen tablecloths, full china and impeccable wait staff (maybe not for toddlers).

photo: Michael Jefferies via flickr

Special Events
Who dunnit? Grownups will love the Murder Mystery Dinner Train. There’s also the Pumpkin Train, The Polar Express Train and Easter Trains for all ages.

Chehalis-Centralia Railroad
1101 Southwest Sylvenus St.
Chehalis, Wa 98532
360-748-9593
Online: steamtrainride.com or map it

Fares: Roundtrip to Milburn – $14/Adults; $13/Seniors; $11/Kids (4-15); 3 & under Free. Roundtrip to Ruth – $17/Adults; $16/Seniors; $14/Kids (4-15); 3 & under Free. Dinner Train Roundtrip to Ruth – $47/Adults; $23.50/Kids (10 and under).

Journey time: Coach run round trip to Milburn 75 minutes; coach run roundtrip to Ruth 105 minutes.

Tickets: No reservations required for coach runs; reservations strongly encouraged for dining trains and special events.

Kitsap Live Steamers
It’s a little different from the full steam train experience, but we couldn’t resist including it because it’s such a fun ride for steam buffs! Kitsap Live Steamers is a 7 1/2 inch gauge scale railroad, owned and run by volunteers. Miniature steam locomotives that work exactly like the big ones, down to every little detail. Twice a month, they’ll take you and the fam for a ride on their trains (you sit on them like you sit on a horse, one leg either side). Psst! These engineers are enthusiasts—they own and maintain their trains and love to share them with others.

Special Events
Every year, Kitsap Live Steamers runs a Ghost Train where they’ll take you on a ride through a haunted park and all the proceeds benefit the Kitsap Foster Care Association.

Kitsap Live Steamers
South Kitsap Regional Park
3101 S.E. Marbeth Ln.
Port Orchard, Wa 98366
360-886-1189
Online: kitsaplivesteamers.org or map it

Schedule: Second and fourth Saturdays starting in April and ending in October from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Fares: All rides are free, but donations are accepted to cover the cost of maintaining the track and trains.

Journey: Approximately 10 minute rides (and you can ride again and again and try different trains).

Where is your family’s favorite place to ride the rails? Tell us in the Comments below.

— Helen Walker Green

When it comes to Santa visits, kids just can’t seem to get enough. But all the waiting coupled with the crowds is enough to overwhelm any of Santa’s little helpers (and their parents). Take the wait out of this year’s Santa visit, and add an unexpected twist, by booking passage on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Santa Express. There’s plenty for excited kidlets to see and do before and after their visit with the big man in red. Plus, there’s the train! Read on for everything you need to know about the coolest holiday choo-choo ride around.

photo: Mr. Rainier Scenic Railroad

Ho Ho Ho
Recreate the Polar Express (or a pretty close replica) for your kids this holiday season with a ride on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s special Santa Express train. Santa’s elves have been working overtime fine tuning this year’s experience with an eye on easy and exciting. Easy for parents, extra exciting for kids. Sounds like a winning combo to us! And we don’t want to spoil all the surprises, but rumor has there are some possible VIP visits in store, too. As for visits with the Man in Red, he’ll have his own special place on the train where eager kiddos can share their Christmas wishes and snap post-worthy pics before receiving their special souvenir gift. And don’t forget the hot cocoa and cookies doled out before boarding to keep everyone warm and set a festive mood. The Santa Train runs for a limited time, and spots fill up quickly (psst… a few time slots are already sold out!), so make your reservation early. We suggest booking a 10 a.m. trip for the easiest parking options. And who knows, if you’re lucky, you might even have some snow on the ground!

photo: Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

All Aboard!
The journey with Santa starts at the North Pol…er… quaint train station in Elbe. We suggest arriving a good 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to get parked, checked in and watch the train approach. It’s one of those moments where feeling small is an understatement, and your little engineers will stare wide-eyed for good reason. To add to your special experience, head up to the engine car and hop on board as it turns around for the next adventure. The engineers are psyched to share their passion for trains with passengers (remember, they’re volunteer hobbyists!). And they can answer all kinds of questions from curious minds, little or big. They love to share stories, so get ready to geek out with those who live the dream!

photo: Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

The ride out to Mineral is about 40 minutes and it’s a throw back that’ll have you longing for a slower paced life. That rhythmic clickety-clack of the train on the tracks, the rustic wooden benches in the cars, the classic whistle of the steam engine. You can’t help but feel like you’re in the middle of a Norman Rockwell painting as you ride along over streams and through forests, slowing to take in the beauty of Rainier looming above the trees (psst… the view’s on the east side of the train, so grab a seat there if you can). This is one situation where it’s definitely all about the journey. Like any train ride, passengers can get up and move through the cars, so you can keep the kiddos happy with some exploration and movement on this outing. Once you arrive in Mineral, you can get out and explore the new museum and stretch your legs a little bit or you can stay put as the train turns around the make the return journey.

photo: Bob Harbison Photography

If you’re feeling peckish, visit the snack car where you’ll find a full menu of munchies, like crackers, candy, nuts, chips, and drinks too. Everything’s on the cheap side and cash is a must-have. This is also where you’ll find the restrooms. If you need to change a diaper, you won’t find a changing table in either bathroom. But there’s floor space for a change in the bathroom facing the snack counter. If you can plan it (listen up, babies, we’re talking to you) change a diaper before you depart or after arriving in Mineral. Both of these restrooms have changing tables.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Good to Know
Happy kiddos, happy life. (Isnt that the saying?) Check out our tips below to keep your trip on track.

1) Plan for about 2 hours round-trip on the train and about 2 hours each direction if you’re driving down from the city. This is an all day, weekend adventure that’s worth the trip!

2) BYO is kosher when it comes to snacks and other food on the train. Just avoid glass bottles or things that can roll and spill, please.

3) Expect spotty cell service and Wi-Fi for the trip. This can either be the perfect excuse to unplug and enjoy the ride or it can mean a little planning ahead when it comes to downloads meant to occupy the littles.

4) All the train cars are covered and heated, but a warm blanket for laps can help to keep everyone cozy (these are 100-year-old, single-paned windows after all). Plus, it’ll add a little sleigh ride feel to your holiday excursion.

5) Practice the carnival ride caveat to keep the kidlets safe on the train. Hands and limbs inside the moving vehicle at all times means they won’t encounter ant low-hanging, unfriendly branches along the way.

Good Eats
Just north of the Elbe train station, sits the train-car-turned-restaurant, Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Company Restaurant. Here they serve up traditional diner fare like burgers, salads, pastas, and desserts that you’d be embarrassed to admit you ate to your dentist. Everything’s homemade and let’s just say you should expect some leftovers when it comes to serving size. If you find a long line here, or feel the need to sink your teeth into a juicy burger, the Elbe Bar and Grill is a good alternative. With a kid’s menu and a truly local feel, it’ll help your crew fill their tummies before or after the trip.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe 

Y’All Come Back Now, Ya Hear?
The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad resumes its usual schedule in May. Just in time to watch the world come to life again and enjoy the sights and smells of spring in the mountains. On this train, passengers get to disembark at the depot in Mineral and check out the world’s largest collection of steam logging locomotives. If engines are your thing, (and even if they’re not) get ready to marvel at some of the rare and vintage beauties housed in their sheds. Move over, Thomas. Sodor ain’t got nothin’ on this place! And although you won’t find Sir Topham Hatt wandering around these sheds, you’ll probably find some people busy working on engines at the Shop. The tools alone are worth a peek. There are plenty of photo ops as you wander through the Rod House and the House of Gears, weaving in and around these massive metal machines. Each engine has a story to tell, and interesting facts are posted to help those of us who may not be so in-the-know figure out the cool in what we’re seeing. There’s serious history in the American railroading culture, and here’s a chance to learn all about it!

photo: Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
54124 Mountain Hwy E.
Elbe, Wa 98330
360-569-7959
Reservations: 1-888-783-2611
Online: mrsr.com

Dates: Nov. 28-Dec. 21, 2015
Cost: $32/Adults (ages 13-61); $27/Youth (ages 5-12); $18/Kids (ages 3 & 4); 2 & under Free. $2 parking.
Times: Sat. & Sun. at 10 a.m., 12:45 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.

Do you plan to ride the Scenic Mountain Railroad with Santa? Have you taken the trip before? Share your experience in a comment below.

— Allison Sutcliffe

Hop aboard for a fun and festive railroad excursion with Santa, Mrs. Claus and a whole bunch of little elves. For one day only (Dec. 13), you and the kids are invited to join thousands of other DMV-ers for The Santa Train, one of the metro region’s most popular holiday events and part of the VRE’s Operation Lifesaver campaign to promote train safety.

Photo: Virginia Railyway Express via Facebook

A Jolly Good Time
Take a seat and prepare to be awed. Santa’s helpers will walk through the train cars handing out candy canes and coloring books, while high school choral groups sing holiday tunes. Then here comes a very jolly Santa and Mrs. Claus, ready to pose for your camera. There is no time for your little ones to sit on Santa’s lap and list all the treasures they hope to see under the tree, but don’t worry, Santa definitely aims to please and the kids love being part of such festive fun. Don’t forget that the purpose of the Santa Train is to promote train safety, so if you’ve got a couple of train lovers on your hands, point out the lessons promoted in the coloring books Santa’s helpers are handing out. The Operation Lifesaver campaign also works in conjunction with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program so be sure to bring a toy for a child in need and drop it off at the station before you board.

Photo: Virginia Railyway Express via Facebook

Next Stop…
Trains depart from Fredericksburg, Manassas, Burke Center and Woodbridge Stations. All trains head north up past Quantico and then turn around. The entire ride is about 45 minutes long. While you’re waiting for Santa and his elves to come to your train car, enjoy Virginia’s stunning countryside from the train’s windows, ripe with old farmhouses and barns.

Photo: Virginia Railyway Express via Facebook

Inside Scoop
Tickets for this extremely popular event go on sale at 9 am Nov. 24. You can buy them at outlets or online. Tickets are $5 at outlets and $6 online, with net proceeds benefiting Operation Lifesaver. When we say this is an extremely popular event, we mean it. Online tickets sell out almost instantly (last year, all 7,500 tickets sold out in 12 minutes!
) so unless you’re a computer wizard, the best way to guarantee tickets is to stand in line at the Fredericksburg Visitor’s Center. Wear your hat, scarf and gloves and get there before 9 am to secure a spot. Prepare to pay cash (or check), because credit cards are not accepted. Everyone needs a ticket to board the train (parents and tots), and your purchase is limited to six tickets.

Photo: The Bavarian Chef via Facebook

Feeling Peckish?
There is no food on the train (other than candy canes), but you are welcome to bring snacks on board. If you’re picking the train up in Fredericksburg the station is right downtown and surrounded by shops and cafes. You can finish the ride with a tasty lunch of German fare at The Bavarian Chef, a popular restaurant connected to the train station, or walk a few blocks to the Soup & Taco or Sammy T’s, both kid-friendly cafes.

Virginia Railway Express Santa Train
When: Dec. 13
Burke Center, Manassas, Woodbridge and Fredericksburg Stations
Online: vre.org

Have you taken a ride on VRE’s Santa Train? Share any insider secrets in the Comments section below. 

—Jamy Bond