Hop aboard these 6 holiday train rides in Virginia for festive fun
These six train rides are waiting for you to hop aboard and experience the holiday season in Virginia.
This holiday season, Virginia’s railways are offering a magical experience for families seeking festive fun. From twinkling lights to cozy rides, these seasonal train journeys provide the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season while creating lasting memories. Whether it’s meeting Santa on board, enjoying holiday treats, or simply marveling at the sparkling scenery, these excursions promise to bring holiday cheer to all ages.
Hop aboard and make the most of the season with memorable train rides through Virginia’s winter wonderland.
1. Busch Gardens Christmas Town Express
Location: Williamsburg
Get into the holiday spirit aboard the Christmas Town Express, a beloved seasonal tradition at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. This festive train ride takes visitors on a 1.5-mile journey through the park, showcasing over two million dazzling Christmas lights and charming holiday vignettes. Guests are invited to sing along to their favorite holiday songs while soaking in the scenic decorations that transform the park into a winter wonderland.
Busch Gardens calls this experience “a fan favorite,” highlighting the combination of caroling, twinkling lights, and enchanting displays. The Christmas Town Express offers a unique way to explore the “World’s Most Beautiful Theme Park” during the most magical time of the year.
2. Virginia Scenic Railway – Santa’s Scenic Railway
Location: Staunton
For those seeking a festive holiday outing, Santa’s Scenic Railway is returning to Staunton this year, offering families a chance to experience the magic of the season aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. Running from Nov. 30 to Dec. 22, the 50-minute rides will operate daily except Mondays, departing from the Amtrak station in historic downtown Staunton.
Passengers can settle into table seating—configured for groups of two or four—and enjoy hot beverages, sweet treats, and a visit from Santa himself. Children will have a chance to share their holiday wishes with Santa while parents capture the moment with their own cameras.
The holiday-themed train offers a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for younger children who can enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed by a longer journey. Tickets are $65 per person, with children under two riding for free if seated on a parent’s lap.
Festive attire is encouraged, but riders should dress warmly, as the platform can be chilly. Organizers recommend arriving early to allow time for parking and exploring downtown Staunton’s charming surroundings.
3. Whistle Stop Hobbies Annual Santa Railway Express Train
Location: Alexandria
The Annual Santa Railway Express Train is back for its 18th year, offering a cherished holiday experience for families. Departing from Alexandria’s King Street Station, this festive train ride is a round trip to Old Town Manassas, complete with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
This year’s schedule includes rides on select Mondays and Thursdays in December, with some dates already sold out. The train departs at 1:30 p.m. and returns at 4:30 p.m. Tickets, priced at $29.99 per person, are available exclusively at Whistle Stop Hobbies and must be purchased in person. Every passenger, including infants, is required to have a ticket.
The trip includes a stop in Manassas, where passengers can enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and water. While there, children can participate in a Q&A session with Santa on the station platform. Parents are encouraged to capture the magic of the moment, making it an unforgettable holiday memory.
Whistle Stop Hobbies, the event’s organizer, has been a beloved part of the Alexandria community since 2005. Known for its dedication to creating family memories, the shop specializes in trains, toys, and other hobbies. Each year, the Santa Railway Express embodies this mission, bringing joy and tradition to hundreds of families.
4. VRE Santa Trains
Location: Alexandria
The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) is hosting its annual Santa Trains on Saturday, Dec. 14, offering families a festive and educational experience. The trains, which combine holiday cheer with an important rail safety message, will allow passengers to meet Santa and his helpers, who will be handing out candy canes, coloring books, and other holiday treats while promoting the “Look, Listen, and Live” campaign by Operation Lifesaver.
All passengers, regardless of age, are required to have a ticket, which is non-refundable. In addition, the event supports the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Campaign, with VRE stations in Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Burke Centre, and Woodbridge serving as drop-off locations for unwrapped toys.
5. Crozet Trolley Co. North Pole Express
Location: Crozet
The Crozet Trolley Co. is inviting families to climb aboard for a magical journey to the “North Pole.” Designed with children ages 3 to 9 in mind, this festive holiday experience includes reindeer games, hot chocolate, cookies, a small gift, and the chance to meet Santa. Even the littlest passengers—those two and under—can ride for free if seated on a parent’s lap.
Departing from Crozet’s Downtown Square, the North Pole Express takes families to Knight’s Gambit Vineyards, where holiday fun awaits. While kids enjoy the seasonal activities, adults can relax with a glass of wine from the vineyard. “Don’t worry, we’re driving!” the company notes, adding a playful touch to the experience.
Tickets are $39 per person, with rides scheduled throughout the holiday season. Families are encouraged to check the calendar for times and availability. With a fleet that includes a 30-seat trolley and two 18-seat shuttle buses, the North Pole Express promises a festive adventure for the whole family.
6. Mountain Lake Lodge Pinecone Express Christmas Train Rides
Location: Pembroke
Celebrate the season with a ride on the Pinecone Express, part of Mountain Lake Lodge’s enchanting Magical Christmas Village & Marketplace. This festive train ride takes passengers on a lighted path through the lodge’s beautifully decorated holiday display, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
The Pinecone Express runs from Nov. 29 through Jan. 4, and tickets are $12 per person. Rides are available Fridays from 4 to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays from 12 to 8:30 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at Toyland, located within the Christmas Village.
Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, the Pinecone Express offers an unforgettable journey filled with holiday lights, festive cheer, and a touch of Christmas magic.
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