The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Trains in Connecticut

The holidays are here, and what better way to embrace the season than by taking a magical train ride through Connecticut? Whether you’re a family with young children, a group of friends, or someone just looking for a festive outing, these Christmas train rides are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

From meeting Santa to enjoying beautiful holiday lights, Connecticut’s Christmas trains offer something for everyone.

And the best part? You’re not just riding on any old train, you’re stepping into a fully immersive holiday experience.

Here are some of our favorite Christmas trains in Connecticut that you won’t want to miss.

We’ve got all the details on dates, locations, and ticket info, so you can easily plan your trip to see Santa, sip hot cocoa, and make memories that last a lifetime.

The Best Christmas Trains in Connecticut

Santa Trains at Danbury Railway Museum

Location: Danbury Railway Museum, Danbury, CT
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, Nov 30 – Dec 22, 2024
Times: 2:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 8:00 pm

The Danbury Railway Museum brings back the highly anticipated First Gift Express, where children get the opportunity to meet Santa and receive the first gifts of Christmas!

This personalized experience has been a fan favorite for the last two years, and it’s easy to see why. A quick train ride through the historic Danbury railyard, along with a festive museum visit, makes for a delightful holiday outing.

Plus, kids can participate in a Letters to Santa coloring station and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies afterward.

Pro Tip: Make sure to reserve your tickets early, as this event often sells out!

The Santa Express and Northern Lights Limited at the Railroad Museum of New England

Location: Thomaston, CT
Dates: Select dates Nov 30 – Dec 22, 2024
Times: 12:00 pm, 2:15 pm (Santa Express); 5:00 pm, 7:15 pm (Northern Lights Limited)

Hop on board the Santa Express or Northern Lights Limited at the Railroad Museum of New England, where you’ll not only meet Santa and his elves but also get to experience a truly magical holiday ride.

The Santa Express offers a chance to meet Santa in the day, while the Northern Lights Limited takes you on an enchanting evening journey, complete with a visit to Santa’s workshop, sparkling lights, Christmas carols, special gifts for kids, and more.

This is one of the most immersive and enchanting Christmas train rides in the state!

If you want to experience the full magic, be sure to choose one of the evening train rides for the ultimate festive glow.

North Pole Express at Essex Steam Train

Location: Essex, CT
Dates: Nov 14 – Dec 23, 2024
Times: 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm (most days, some days start at 2 pm)

Essex Steam Train’s North Pole Express is a favorite among families, offering a memorable 90-minute ride filled with live performances of The Night Before Christmas, visits from Santa, and plenty of singing and holiday cheer.

This train ride is the perfect blend of nostalgia and magic, as you travel through picturesque scenery while being entertained by the jolly man himself.

Be sure to wear your coziest pajamas – this holiday journey is especially fun when you’re comfy and ready for a magical ride!

Shore Line Trolley Museum Winter Wonderland

Location: East Haven, CT
Dates: Thanksgiving weekend and weekends in December through December 22, 2024
Times: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

This holiday season, bring the whole family to the Shore Line Trolley Museum for a magical

Visit with Santa aboard a cozy, heated trolley decorated for the season.

During the ride, children can share their Christmas wishes with Santa and receive a small gift, creating lasting memories. The festive fun doesn’t end there – families can stroll through the museum to admire the beautifully decorated trolleys and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate to warm up.

What to Expect:

A relaxing ride to visit Santa aboard a heated trolley.
Photo opportunities with Santa to capture the moment.
Holiday-themed trolleys to explore inside the museum.
A chance to shop for unique gifts at the museum store.

Winterfest and the Tunnel of Lights at the Connecticut Trolley Museum

Location: East Windsor, CT
Dates: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 29 – December 22, 2024; extended hours December 26-30, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Experience the magic of the season at the Connecticut Trolley Museum’s Winterfest and Tunnel of Lights! Starting on November 29th, 2024, this beloved holiday event is the perfect way to immerse yourself in festive cheer. Running every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening through December 22nd, and with extended hours from December 26th to December 30th, Winterfest is sure to bring joy to the whole family.

What to Expect:

The Tunnel of Lights: Hop aboard a cozy closed trolley or brave the winter chill on an open-air trolley to journey through the dazzling “Tunnel of Lights,” a display of over 10,000 festive lights. Don’t forget to bundle up for the open-air experience and bring blankets to stay warm!
Winter Wonderland Inside: Step into a transformed Visitor Center where model train layouts, twinkling lights, and holiday decorations create an enchanting atmosphere for all ages.
Meet Santa: On opening night, Santa himself will be on hand for photos! Bring your camera to capture the magic.

While the event runs rain or shine, be prepared for possible changes in the trolley ride depending on the weather. On rainy nights, the open-air cars will be substituted with closed ones.

Ticket Information:

Closed Cars: $16 (Public) | $8 (Members)
Open Cars: $21 (Public) | $10.50 (Members)
Infants/Children under 2: Free on a lap
Group Tickets: Available for groups of 20 or more on weekdays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, with a visit from Santa included!

Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance to ensure a spot, as walk-ins are not guaranteed. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add some holiday magic to your family traditions, these Christmas trains in Connecticut are a must-visit!

From visits with Santa and holiday caroling to simply basking in the holiday lights, these train rides are the perfect way to celebrate the season.

Be sure to plan ahead, book your tickets early, and enjoy an unforgettable holiday experience!

More Things to Do in Connecticut This Winter

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Check out some of our most popular guides for ideas: