4 magical holiday train rides in Florida
Christmas-themed train rides that brim with nostalgia and yuletide cheer are the perfect way for the whole family to ring in the holiday season.
Whether it’s a stop at the NorthPole’s Florida branch, where passengers will detrain to meet ol’ St. Nick himself, or the opportunity to whip out the magnifying glass and solve a baffling Christmas mystery (shades of Agatha Christie!), these delightful train rides in the Sunshine State are the perfect way to celebrate the season.
1. Sugar Express
Featuring historic steam locomotives and vintage passenger cars from the 20th Century, these comfortable, climate-controlled trains travel throughout the Glades communities and farms of South Central Florida, making them pure holiday magic.
The historic Locomotive 148 is over 100 years old, having been built in 1920. And although it’s an oldie, it was designed as a fast passenger engine capable of reaching 70 MPH. But have no worries: the speed limit on the railroad is 40 MPH, so you’ll be sure to enjoy the leisurely pace. However, due to its historic nature, Sugar Express is not ADA-accessible. Cars used on excursions feature steep steps, narrow hallways, and doorways, as well as small restrooms.
With its wholesome family atmosphere, this two-hour trip through the countryside features a visit with Santa Claus, cookies, and a commemorative gift. First-class tickets include locally made sweets, treats, hot chocolate, and yummy desserts.
The Sebring Santa Express departs from Sebring Dec. 7 and 8, The Clewiston Santa Express departs from Clewiston on December 14 and 15, and The Lake Placid Santa Express departs from Lake Placid on December 20, 21, and 22.
For ticket prices, departure times, and more information, click here.
2. Florida Gulf Coast Railroad’s North Pole Express
This 35-minute ride from Parrish, Florida, to the North Pole is pure holiday joy! But the real magic happens the moment passengers detrain at a very special North Pole station. That’s where none other than Santa awaits to greet every child (and child-at-heart).
There’s plenty of entertainment to be had on this stop, including campfires and all the hot chocolate and cookies you care to enjoy! Of course, additional food and beverages will be available for purchase at the North Pole.
And speaking of the North Pole, the Family Fun Pack—available for $15—contains a s’mores kit for roasting over the campfires and four glow necklaces. But that’s not all: Children will also receive a special gift from Santa.
Starting and ending with a 35-minute train ride to and from the North Pole, the entire experience lasts approximately 3 and a half hours of pure holiday delight!
For ticket prices, departure times, and more information, click here.
3. 2024 Christmas Train at Kirby Family Farm
The 2024 Christmas Train at Kirby Family Farm is celebrating its 13th year of hosting this fun holiday feast for the whole family.
And what a ride it is! Passengers will get to see the beautiful Christmas lights—thousands and thousands of twinkling lights!—as they take a 20-minute journey around the Kirby Family Farm property on an authentic, narrow-gauge historic locomotive.
Once they detrain, they will find so many more things to enjoy! For example, a 1950 fully restored Smith and Smith Ferris Wheel, a holiday magic show fun for the whole family at the depot stage, and a visit with ol’ St. Nick himself for free pictures with your camera or phone.
The best part? This event helps the programs Kirby Family Farm offers at-risk and special needs children to help them through life’s challenges.
For ticket prices, departure times, and more information, click here.
4. Murder Mystery Dinner Train
Who said you can’t enjoy Christmas and a good mystery? For fans of the deductive arts and lovers of Santa Claus, there’s the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, a one-of-a-kind theatrical and culinary experience that typically has a special Christmas-themed show running during the holidays.
During a three-and-a-half-hour round trip from Fort Myers across the Caloosahatchee River into Lee and Charlotte counties and then back, passengers will enjoy a five-course dinner prepared fresh onboard. The menu includes a choice of three entrees, plus coffee, tea, and iced tea. Wine, beer, cocktails, and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard the train.
And as you enjoy the feast, a mystery will take place before your eyes! So keep your eyes peeled during the comical murder mystery show that plays out in the aisles of each dining car. Write down the clues, and make your final deductions. Clue sheets are collected before the final resolution act, and a prize will be awarded to one super sleuth in each dining car.
For ticket prices, departure times, and more information, click here.
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