Ride With Santa Through the Litchfield Hills
All aboard the Santa Express at the Railroad Museum of New England! This 90-minute round-trip ride through Connecticut’s winter countryside is filled with holiday cheer, cozy decorations, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Elves lead sing-alongs, children receive gifts and bells from Santa’s Toy Bag, and families enjoy the nostalgic glow of vintage railcars decked in lights and garlands.
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$25 USD
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All Ages
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90 Minutes
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Connecticut, United States
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Thomaston
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- Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus
- Elf-Led Caroling Fun
- Vintage Holiday Train
- Christmas Gift & Bell
- Family-Friendly Ride
- Hot Cocoa & Cookies
- Winter Countryside Views
- Photo Time with Santa
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- 90-minute round-trip Santa train ride; visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus; gift and bell for each child; live carolers; holiday décor; onboard hosts.
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- Warm clothes, camera, and printed tickets. Arrive early for check-in and Will Call pickup.
Santa Express Train Ride Features
Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus as they make their rounds through each decorated railcar.
Elf-Led Caroling Fun
Join Santa’s elves for songs, laughter, and festive games during your journey.
Vintage Holiday Train
Step aboard 1920s and 1950s cars illuminated inside and out for a magical ride.
Santa Express Train Ride Details
- Highlights
- Description
- Itinerary
- Price & Availability
- Food & Drink
- Instructions
- Restrictions
- Transportation
Highlights
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Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus
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Elf-Led Caroling Fun
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Vintage Holiday Train
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Christmas Gift & Bell
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Family-Friendly Ride
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Hot Cocoa & Cookies
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Winter Countryside Views
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Photo Time with Santa
Description
Since 1990, the Railroad Museum of New England has brought holiday joy to families aboard the Santa Express, a heartwarming train adventure through the Litchfield Hills. Step back in time as you board restored vintage railcars adorned with twinkling lights and garlands. During the 90-minute journey, Santa and Mrs. Claus visit each car, handing out gifts and sleigh bells to every child while elves lead cheerful sing-alongs. Warm cocoa and cookies are available at Thomaston Station, and car hosts ensure everyone enjoys the nostalgic charm of the ride. Whether you choose the cozy Coach Car or the luxurious Sky Lounge, you’ll find every detail steeped in holiday magic. Perfect for families, grandparents, and believers of all ages, the Santa Express captures the timeless wonder of Christmas on the rails—a New England tradition filled with music, laughter, and heartwarming memories.
Itinerary
11:30 AM — Arrive at Thomaston Station for ticket pickup
11:45 AM — Explore the depot gift shop & museum
12:00 PM — Board the Santa Express (all aboard!)
12:15 PM — Train departs; elves lead caroling & games
12:30 PM — Santa & Mrs. Claus visit each car with gifts
1:00 PM — Cocoa & cookies service (purchase available)
1:20 PM — Photo opportunities & farewell from Santa
1:30 PM — Return to Thomaston Station
Price & Availability
Prices vary by seating class: $25–$100 per person. Infants under 1 ride free on adult’s lap. Non-refundable tickets; full refund only for cancellations by operator or state order.
Food & Drink
Hot cocoa and cookies available for purchase at Thomaston Station from Nutmeg Fudge Company.
Instructions
Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Tickets must be picked up at Will Call, 242 E. Main St, Thomaston CT. Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure.
Restrictions
All ages welcome. Toddlers under 2 ride free. Not all cars are wheelchair accessible; please inquire in advance. No outside food or alcohol.
Transportation
Guests self-drive to Thomaston Station, 242 E Main St, Thomaston CT. Free parking onsite.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Contact Us
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Christmas Holiday Tours
Fort Collins, CO 80526 -
Meeting locations vary for each tour: You will be sent a meeting location after you book
