6 magical holiday train rides to catch across the U.S.

As the holiday season creeps in, there’s nothing quite like heading out on a magical holiday train ride, where hot cocoa, holiday music, and festive vibes await. From coast to coast, here are six standout excursions across the United States to add to your festive bucket list.

1. Grand Canyon Railway, Williams, Arizona

Set against desert and pine-forested landscapes, the Grand Canyon Railway transforms into a holiday delight with its “Polar Express-style” train ride from Williams to the “North Pole.” According to the 2025 schedule, adult tickets start at $61.99, children at $47.99, and peak holiday pricing climbs to $97.99 for an adult. During the one-to-two-hour journey you’ll enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa.

Related: Rome sets holiday magic in motion with new train to Munich’s Christmas markets

1. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Blue Ridge, Georgia

The “Holiday Express” here offers a one-hour ride through the Georgia mountains with festive touches: holiday music, the reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” a jingle bell for kids, candy canes, and hot chocolate. Tickets are $54.99 for adults (13+) and $42.99 for children (2-12). If you’re looking for small-town charm and mountain air along with your holiday train, this hits the mark.

1. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga, Tennessee

This experience runs both the “Christmas Daylight Express” (a daytime ride kids will love) and the evening “North Pole Limited,” where Santa boards for a visit. Ticket details vary, but pricing starts around $40 for standard seats; premium cars are higher, so expect $60-$65 or more for upgraded service. A fun choice for families wanting train magic in a region that isn’t coastal.

1. Railroad Museum of New England, Thomaston, Connecticut

This museum offers festive rides (the “Santa Express” and “Northern Lights Limited”) through the Naugatuck River Valley, featuring decorated cars, Santa and Mrs. Claus, sing-alongs and gifts for kids. Ticket pricing ranges from $70 for two coach seats up to $1,520 for a private lounge car for 16 people. A range wide enough for both families and bespoke luxury holiday experiences.

1. Grapevine Vintage Railroad, Grapevine/Fort Worth, Texas

Dubbed the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” Grapevine offers the “Christmas Wine Trains,” a holiday escape for adults aboard vintage coaches, with savory bites, desserts and complimentary wine. Tickets run around $52 per person, with more premium tables/packages running into the $395 range for a four-person table. This option differs from the others due to the festive train ride with wine and date-night appeal, instead of strictly children-centered rides.

1. Verde Canyon Railroad, Clarkdale, Arizona

The “Magical Christmas Journey” aboard this train takes guests on a one-hour scenic ride to the “North Pole” with Santa, his elves, storytelling, and treats. The experience is rich: festive décor at the depot, live eagle-flap lesson, and themed entertainment. It’s a nice option for those wanting both desert landscapes and holiday train magic.

Related: Don’t miss out on these 3 epic train travel adventures

Planning Tips

• Book early: These rides often sell out.

• Check for age/ticket tiers: Many rides offer standard coach seats, premium cars, or private charters.

• Prepare for weather: Even “indoor trains,” you’ll likely board outdoors or wait outside so dress accordingly.

• Expect extra activities: Most rides include hot cocoa, cookies, themed storytelling, a visit from Santa, and some even include keepsakes like bells or ornaments.

• Mind the date & class: Peak holiday weekends often cost more. For example, the Grand Canyon Railway priced adult tickets at $61.99 in “value” slots but up to $97.99 on holiday rate.

From desert night skies in Arizona to mountain serenity in Georgia, and from adult-wine rides in Texas to classic family Santa express experiences in Connecticut, there’s a holiday train ride out there for everyone interested in the experience.

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This story was originally reported by TravelHost on Nov 1, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.