We have been highlighting some of our favorite Christmas traditions and one that we will definitely be adding to the list for years to come is the Christmas train. We had heard about this hidden gem from several of our mom friends and it truly is a fun activity. If you are based in San Diego or will be visiting for the holidays, this can be a fun excursion. Many cities have similar train rides so check with your local railway museum to see if they offer something similar.
Setting the Mood
It is hard to not be joyful as you take your seat aboard the train. The coach class train cars are 1920’s vintage commuter cars decked out with tinsel, light and candy canes galore. The Robert Peary Charter car was used by President Franklin D. Roosevelt 34 times from 1934-36. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by elves who are sure to make just about any Scrooge joyful. We loved learning that the elves were volunteers from local high schools. The elves pass out hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies. Not to be missed is the conductor who punches everyone’s tickets.
l-Conductor punching our tickets r-Enjoying cocoa and cookies
You can reserve your tickets here: https://www.psrm.org/npl/
Northpole
As you approach the North Pole, you can see the twinkling lights. It was fun hearing all of the children get excited about seeing the North Pole, where Santa lives. Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to everyone on the train. They then join the group on the train. Santa Claus stops with every group and talks with the children and even takes group pictures.
Christmas Carols Galore
The ride back to the depot passes quickly as the elves read a Christmas story to the group. Our favorite part was singing the Christmas carols together. Everyone really got into it!
Our tips if you are going
· Get your tickets in advance, as soon as you can. Many families have made this their annual tradition and tickets sell out quickly.
· Dress warm. Once you receive your tickets from the Depot, you will stand outside in line to board the train. It can get pretty brisk in the evening. Once aboard the train it is warm and there is room underneath the seats to tuck jackets or a small blanket.
· Don’t be afraid to get in the holiday mood! We wore matching Christmas pajamas from Hanna Andersson. We saw lots of children in cozy pajamas and even some fun Christmas sweaters.
· Get a group and go together. It can even be fun to reserve one of the First Class Charter cars with a few other families or your extended family. It also has an outdoor deck that you can go out on and get a great view.
· Make sure to check out the museum and the history behind the trains. We loved hearing about how some of the train cars were used.
· It can be fun to watch the movie or read the book “Polar Express,” before you go on a Christmas Train ride.
We received coach class tickets from the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum. All of our thoughts and opinions are our own.
