A Journey of Lights and Cheer
Step aboard the Carolina Christmas Train for a 50-minute ride through the heart of North Carolina’s holiday magic. Enjoy carols, cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa as your family glides through twinkling lights aboard the historic Summit View railcar.
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$64 USD
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All Ages
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50 minutes
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North Carolina, United States
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Pinehurst
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- Historic Dome Railcar
- Santa Visits Every Car
- Holiday Music & Lights
- Hot Cocoa & Cookie Combo
- Nostalgic Family Outing
- Twinkling Nighttime Views
- Comfy Booth Seating
- All-Ages Holiday Ride
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- Round-trip holiday train ride, visit from Santa, souvenir cup, hot chocolate, and cookie.
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- Bring a jacket for cool evening temperatures. Cameras welcome for photos with Santa.
The Carolina Christmas Train – Family Class: SUMMIT VIEW Features
Aboard the Summit View Dome
Enjoy a panoramic view from this double-decker dome car while Christmas lights and carols surround your family in festive warmth.
Meet Santa Onboard
Watch the joy on your child’s face as Santa visits every family, handing out smiles and holiday cheer.
Hot Cocoa & Cookies Included
Each passenger receives a souvenir cup of cocoa and a sweet cookie as part of this heartwarming seasonal journey.
The Carolina Christmas Train – Family Class: SUMMIT VIEW Details
- Highlights
- Description
- Itinerary
- Price & Availability
- Food & Drink
- Instructions
- Restrictions
- Transportation
Highlights
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Historic Dome Railcar
-
Santa Visits Every Car
-
Holiday Music & Lights
-
Hot Cocoa & Cookie Combo
-
Nostalgic Family Outing
-
Twinkling Nighttime Views
-
Comfy Booth Seating
-
All-Ages Holiday Ride
Description
Experience the wonder of a classic Christmas journey aboard the Carolina Christmas Train. This 50-minute adventure departs from Star, North Carolina, aboard the historic Summit View dome car—built in 1954 and beautifully restored to its mid-century luxury. As the train winds through the Sandhills, passengers are treated to the glow of festive lights, cheerful carols, and the warmth of hot cocoa and cookies. Santa himself makes his way through each car, greeting children and families with joyful laughter and memories to treasure. The spacious two-level Summit View offers cozy booth seating below and panoramic dome views above, creating the perfect setting for a nostalgic ride through the holidays. Whether you’re a local or visiting Pinehurst for the season, this Christmas train delivers the magic of the rails wrapped in holiday spirit.
Itinerary
- 5:15 PM – Arrive and check in at 100 Russell Drive, Star NC
- 5:30 PM – Board the Summit View family class car
- 5:40 PM – Depart and enjoy carols, cocoa, and cookies
- 6:00 PM – Santa visits each family
- 6:15 PM – Relax under holiday lights as the train returns
- 6:20 PM – Disembark and visit the souvenir stand
Price & Availability
$64 Adults | $54 Kids (ages 2–12). Runs November 25–December 23, with 5:00 PM and 7:15 PM departures.
Food & Drink
Hot cocoa and cookies included with ticket.
Instructions
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. Online purchases only. Boarding Area 2, Star, NC.
Restrictions
Children under 2 may ride free as lap infants. Not ADA accessible. No refunds for missed departures.
Transportation
Guests provide their own transportation to the Star Station. Free parking available on-site.












