train Ride Dates available
Select November & December Dates - ON SALE NOW
Info:
Departure: Select a date below to view available times
Ages: All ages welcome; guests under 2 ride free
Duration: 1 hour
Boarding: 15 minutes prior to departure
Steam Powered
Ticketing:
Adult-$32 | Senior-$28 | Youth-$24 | Under 2-Free | First Class- $49
Santa Express: What to Expect
Celebrate the season aboard Everett Railroad’s approximately one-hour Santa Express from 244 Pullman Drive in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. Santa visits guests aboard the train, and families are welcome to take their own photos during the visit.
What’s Included
- Approximately one-hour round-trip holiday train ride
- Visit with Santa aboard the train
- Hot cocoa and freshly baked cookies
- A small gift from Santa for children
- Personal photos with Santa are welcome
Arrival and Boarding
Multiple departure times are offered; select a date below to view availability. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for parking, check-in, restroom use, and boarding. Boarding begins approximately 15 minutes before departure.
Ages: All ages are welcome. Guests under 2 ride free; review the checkout details for any complimentary-ticket, seating, or capacity requirements.
Your Visit with Santa
Santa makes his way through the train to greet guests and pose for personal photos. Bring your camera or phone. Children receive a small gift from Santa during the experience.
Dress Your Holiday Best
Festive clothing and pajamas are welcome. Dress for the weather while arriving and boarding, and bring a camera for your family’s Santa visit.
Before You Book
Seat type, climate control, restroom availability, stroller storage, and accessibility vary by railcar. Guests who need boarding assistance or specific accommodations should contact Everett Railroad before booking. Trains generally operate in seasonal weather; watch the email address used for booking and Everett Railroad’s official channels for any operational updates.
Compare Coach and First Class
| Feature | Coach | First Class |
|---|---|---|
| Santa visit | Included | Included |
| Hot cocoa and cookies | Included | Included |
| Children’s gift | Included | Included |
| Seating | Historic coach seating | Upgraded tables, booths, parlour seats, alcoves, or private-style arrangements, depending on the ticket selected |
| Service | Standard onboard service | Enhanced onboard service |
| Climate control | Varies by assigned railcar; review your selected ticket or contact Everett Railroad before booking | |
First Class seating is limited and often sells out. Available layouts vary by departure and ticket type, so review the exact checkout description before purchasing.
What Your First Class Upgrade Includes
- Upgraded seating in the selected railcar
- Enhanced onboard service
- Table, booth, parlour, alcove, or private-style seating options depending on availability
First Class inclusions vary by ticket and railcar. Review the checkout description for the exact seating arrangement and included service.
📸 Photos During Your Visit
Guests may take personal photos during their visit with Santa. An optional professional family portrait is also offered separately for an additional fee and does not include Santa. Ask Everett Railroad or review checkout details for current pricing, availability, and what is included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Santa Express?
The Santa Express is a festive holiday train ride aboard Everett Railroad featuring a scenic steam train excursion and a special visit from Santa Claus. It’s a family-friendly Christmas experience designed to create lasting holiday memories.
How long is the Santa Express train ride?
The Santa Express is approximately a 1 to 1.5 hour round-trip excursion, depending on the scheduled departure. - All Santa Express trains are 1-hour
Does Santa really come on the train?
Yes! Santa Claus rides the train and visits with guests throughout the excursion. Children have the opportunity to meet Santa, talk with him, and take photos during the ride.
Is the Santa Express suitable for young children?
Absolutely. The Santa Express is designed specifically for families and children of all ages. It’s one of Everett Railroad’s most popular holiday traditions for kids.
Is the Santa Express a steam train?
The Santa Express typically operates with a steam-powered locomotive when available. In some cases, diesel equipment may be used due to operational requirements.
What is included with First Class seating?
First Class includes upgraded, more spacious seating along with an enhanced onboard experience. Depending on configuration, guests may enjoy table seating, booth seating, or private-style arrangements, along with a quieter and more comfortable atmosphere. - First Class tickets for the Santa Express include extended Santa time, table service with an exclusive snack and beverage menu, and a souvenir gift for each passenger.
Can I upgrade to First Class?
Yes. First Class upgrades are available during booking, but availability is limited and often sells out quickly during the holiday season.
Can we take photos with Santa?
Yes! Guests are encouraged to take photos with Santa while he visits each car during the ride.
What should we wear?
Holiday attire is encouraged! Many families dress in festive clothing or Christmas pajamas to make the experience even more fun and memorable.
Is the Santa Express wheelchair accessible?
We are not ADA Accessible. There are three steps with handrails that must be climbed to enter each car.
What happens if it snows or the weather is bad?
The Santa Express operates rain, snow, or shine. Passenger coaches are enclosed and heated/comfortable for winter conditions.
Is parking available?
Yes. Complimentary parking is available near the Hollidaysburg station for all ticketed passengers.
When should we arrive?
Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in, boarding, and seating.
Do tickets sell out?
Yes. The Santa Express is one of Everett Railroad’s most popular seasonal events and frequently sells out well in advance of Christmas.
Is this experience only for children?
No. While it’s designed with children in mind, the Santa Express is enjoyed by guests of all ages, including families, couples, and holiday groups.
Can I bring gifts or letters for Santa?
Yes. Many families bring letters for Santa or small items for children to give him during the ride.