Holiday Train Experiences
IT’S HARD TO RESIST THE ROMANTIC NOTION OF RIDING THE RAILS IN A CAR PULLED BY AN OLD-FASHIONED STEAM LOCOMOTIVE ALL LIT UP IN HOLIDAY LIGHTS. It’s something that cap¬tivates most kids—and many adults too. Fortunately for railroad-obsessed kids and their parents, we have plenty of opportunities to take a real holiday train ride in the San Francisco Bay Area. Imagine a warm, cozy meander in a festively decorated train, sometimes with meals served and sometimes with a visit by kids’ favorite characters! Make sure to get reservations in advance, as several of these rides are very popular and sell out quickly.
San Francisco Bay Area Holiday Train Experiences
Glowfari—Oakland
Featuring hundreds of larger-than-life glowing animal lanterns throughout the Zoo. Finish the evening with a visit to Santa and ride the Express Train through the Winter Wonderland! Select dates through Jan. 26, 2025, 5 –9 p.m. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-632-9525, www.oaklandzoo.org
Winterfest at the Tilden Steam Trains —Berkeley
The Tilden Park Steam Train is decked out with glittering lights, ornaments and maybe even a Santa appearance on board. The night rides allow you to see the trinkling evergreens deck out in Christmas spirit. December 14, 15, 21 & 22 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Tilden Park, Grizzley Peak at Lomas Cantados Rd., Berkeley, 510-559-1004, www.ebparks.org
Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights — Sunol
This train ride sells out quickly because it is super awesome. There will be lights, singing and snacks on the 13-mile trip. Santa will be there too. No strollers are allowed on the train. Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday during the holiday season (except December 24 & 25). See website for additional days. Departs Niles at 4:30 p.m., departs Sunol at 7:30 p.m. Niles Station, 37592 Niles Blvd., Fremont. Sunol Station, 6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol. 510-797-4449, www.ncry.org
The Caltrain Holiday Train — San Francisco to Santa Clara
This is not a train ride but an event. At any Caltrain station, enjoy seeing the train go by, bedecked in holiday decor. There will be entertainment and a drive for Toys 4 Tots. Get there 30 minutes before the train’s arrival. Dec. 7 and 8. Free. All ages. At Caltrain stations from San Francisco to Santa Clara. 800-660-4287, www.caltrain.com/holidaytrain
‘Tis the Season to Sip — Napa
Make the holiday season extra festive aboard the Wine Train! Savor Napa’s gorgeous fall landscape as your backdrop and soak in some holiday magic with festive carolers at the station and seasonal craft cocktails to enjoy on board. Gather your friends and family and hop on board for an unforgettable voyage that’s sure to get everyone in the festive spirit. Napa Wine Train Station, 1275 McKinstry St., Napa. 707-253-2111, www.winetrain.com
Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad Holiday Train — Los Gatos
The legacy railroad engineer Billy Jones—a personal friend of fellow train buff Walt Disney—this miniature railroad operates out of Oak Meadow Park in Los Gatos. Families can take an exciting train ride pulled by a scale steam or diesel engine, ride a restored antique carousel and more. Dec 12th – the 27th (closed the 23rd – 25th) Fridays through Sundays, from 6 to 9 p.m., 233 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos. www. bjwrr.org
Roaring Camp Holiday Lights Train — Santa Cruz
A 60-minute ride on this vintage train features a sing-a-long and a visit from Santa. It ends at the boardwalk, where riders can stay and play at the arcade or ride the rides. Nov. 29-30, Dec. 7-8, 14-23. 5 p.m., 6:30 & 8 p.m., See website for pricing. All ages. 400 Beach, Santa Cruz. www.roaringcamp.com
Looking for more Holiday Fun? Check out these articles!
16 Great Skating Venues Around the Bay
Bay Area Holiday Family Event Guide
Great Bay Area Experience Gifts
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
