Christmas trips riding the rails
It’s not cool to write about Christmas before it’s Halloween, but we break that rule today because some things can’t wait. If you promised your kids or grandkids a holiday train journey, buy your tickets now. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Williams, Ariz. Santa will be in the remote desert town about 32 miles west of Flagstaff aboard the Grand Canyon Railway for rides to and from the 1908 Williams Depot. The 90minute Polar Express ride to Santa’s Village mimics the journey in the children’s book and 2004 movie. Expect chocolate chip cookies and hot chocolate. Many dates already are sold out. When: 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. on select dates Nov. 11 to Jan. 6. Cost, info: $41 to $53 for adults, $31 to $43 for children 2 to 15 years old. You can take a Dec. 24 ride for $163. lat.ms/ AZPolarExpress
Jamestown, Calif. The Railtown 1897 State Historic Park southeast of Sacramento runs an hourlong journey during which you’ll hear a reading of “Polar Express” while dancing waiters serve hot chocolate. When: Rides are at 4:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 25 and 26, Dec. 1-3, 8-10 and 15-17. Cost, info: Tickets, available online only, cost $50 to $70 a person. www.railtown1897.us
Hood River, Ore. The Mt. Hood Railroad takes passengers on a storybook adventure on “The Train to Christmas Town,” the 2012 book that tells the story of a girl’s magical train journey. Santa’s elves, hot chocolate, characters from the book and music are part of this theatrical celebration. When: Select dates Nov. 11 to Dec. 28. Cost, info: $37 to $87 per person, depending on seat selection. lat.ms/MtHoodTrain
Washington’s Cascades The Snow Train leaves Seattle on an all-day excursion through the Cascade Mountains and into the Bavarianstyle town of Leavenworth. On-board entertainment includes magicians, singers and oompah bands. It delivers passengers to the town’s Lighting Festival. When: Dec. 2, 9 and 16 only Cost, info: $229 to $359 a person, including a continental breakfast and dinner on board the train. leavenworth snowtrain.net