What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a new adventure? If you’re looking to skip the same-old routine and make some unforgettable memories this year, a festive train trip might be just the ticket.
Scenic train rides are more popular than ever, and during the holidays, some routes take things to a whole new level. Expect everything from carolers and storytimes to dazzling lights, hot cocoa, and visits from Santa. Don’t worry; there’s plenty of adult-friendly fun, too!
Whether you’re looking to stay close to home or venture out of your comfort zone, here are some of the world’s best festive train trips to consider booking this holiday season. All aboard!
The Polar Express (Various Locations, USA)
No holiday train bucket list would be complete without THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Inspired by the classic children’s book and set to the motion picture soundtrack, this one-hour trip to meet Santa is a fantastic choice for families with children. Wear your coziest pajamas and get ready for the experience of a lifetime.
During your journey to the “North Pole,” watch as dancing chefs serve hot cocoa and fresh cookies—just like in the story. Read along with The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg during storytime. Keep your eyes peeled for surprise visits from quirky holiday characters from the film.
Meet Santa and his helpers as they greet you and present you with the first gift of Christmas: a keepsake sleigh bell so you can jingle all the way home. On the journey back, attendants will lead the group in caroling and family-friendly activities. There are locations all over the country from New York to Florida to California. Check the official website to find the closest one to you!
The Santa Claus Express (Rovaniemi, Finland)
If you’re dreaming of an authentic journey into the heart of Christmas, look no further than The Santa Claus Express. This double-decker night train whisks travelers from Helsinki to the gateway of the Arctic Circle, passing snow-draped forests and quaint villages along the way.
Your destination? Santa’s official hometown of Rovaniemi, Finland. Relax in total comfort with amenities like WiFi, a bathroom with a private shower, and even breakfast delivered right to your seat. Once you arrive, the adventure really begins. Explore Santa Claus Village to meet Santa and his friendly elves, wander through charming shops, and take off on a reindeer ride.
Book a spot for your car when you purchase your ticket to discover the sights outside Santa Claus Village, like the world-class alpine village of Levi. For a truly unique experience you won’t find elsewhere, stop by Arctic SnowHotel to dine in a restaurant made entirely of ice and snow. Look out for the Northern lights for a breathtaking spectacle you’ll remember forever.
The Royal Gorge Route Santa Express Train (Colorado, USA)
If the idea of a journey through one of Colorado’s largest and most impressive canyons sounds like fun, then the Royal Gorge Route Santa Express Train is for you. This festive train makes trips up to four times daily on select dates in November and December, so there’s plenty of holiday cheer to go around. Inside the train, you’ll find hundreds of hand-painted creations, like snowflakes, pine trees, and Santa’s magical sleigh.
Unwind in a comfortable seat with expansive windows that showcase awe-inspiring views of the Royal Gorge and Arkansas River. As you cruise around the canyon, sing along to classic Christmas songs and get a special gift from Santa. Once you arrive at the “North Pole,” you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing display of more than 50,000 twinkling lights.
Order from a full bar and the 403 Grill to enhance your trip with seasonal bites and drinks. For a truly enchanting ride, book an evening trip to see the holiday lights reflecting off the canyon walls. For a festive train experience sans Santa, book a seat on The Holiday Train instead. The railcars are decorated beautifully for the season, but it’s a more relaxed journey.
The CPKC Holiday Train (Canada and USA)
Looking for something a little different? With the CPKC Holiday Train, you can experience all the joy of a festive train ride without leaving the station. For more than two decades, this rolling celebration has uplifted communities across Canada and the United States.
Each year, between November and December, the decorated six-car train sets off around the continent, making designated stops to perform free concerts. Expect to hear both traditional and modern holiday tunes sung by famous musicians like American Authors KT Tunstall and Clerel. Every stop is a full-scale holiday celebration with a purpose—raising funds and food donations for local food banks.
Since 1999, the train has raised more than $24.3 million and over 5.3 million pounds of food for communities in need. The only requirement? Bring a food item or cash donation to support your local food bank. This is a great way to embrace the giving spirit of the season while having tons of fun. Be sure to check their schedule to see if they’re stopping in a town near you!
Santa Train Jolly Journeys (Napa Valley, California)
During the holidays, California’s most famous wine train transforms into the Santa Train Jolly Journeys, bringing an epic blend of family-friendly fun and indulgence for adults. The two-hour train ride is packed with themed activities like storytelling, sing-alongs, and games.
While the kids meet Santa and his mischievous elves, adults can relax with holiday treats and world-class Napa Valley wines. Sing with carolers, sip hot cider or cocoa, and write letters to Santa in the postcard station. You’ll even get to bring home keepsake photos of your family posing with Santa in Santa’s Station Caboose.
Looking to pair your holiday fun with a meal? You can customize your package to include a three-course meal and even a tableside visit from Santa Claus. Enjoy farm-to-table dishes like Sonoma duck confit or pan-seared salmon while taking in striking views of the lush countryside. Between the picturesque Napa Valley scenery and the exciting holiday activations, this festive train ride is a must for your winter bucket list.
