California Easter Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Published: March 1, 2025
By: Adam Burns
California, with its diverse landscapes and rich railway history, offers some of the most scenic and family-friendly train journeys, especially during the Easter season. As flowers bloom and hills turn green, the state’s railways transform into enchanting paths of adventure for both children and adults.
Whether you're seeking an immersive experience into lush landscapes or fun-filled festivities for the whole family, California’s Easter-themed train rides are an unforgettable way to celebrate this springtime holiday. This guide will navigate you through some of the must-visit Easter train rides in the state.
River Fox Train Easter Egg Express
The River Fox Train, a popular excursion train located in Sacramento, California, offers unique and scenic experiences along the beautiful banks of the Sacramento River. Celebrated for its themed rides, the train provides an engaging backdrop for a variety of events and seasonal festivities. Among these, the Easter Egg Express stands out as a family favorite, melding the joy of train travel with the excitement of seasonal celebration.
The Easter Egg Express is a specially-themed journey, typically offered during the Easter season, where families are invited to participate in a variety of fun and engaging activities. The journey boasts a lively atmosphere, complete with colorful decorations and festive music that sets the stage for a memorable adventure. Children, in particular, delight in the traditional Easter egg hunt, a highlight of the excursion, spread out along the picturesque landscapes that the train traverses.
Passengers can also enjoy storytelling, games, and even a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny—perfect opportunities for memorable photos and cherished moments. The train's vintage cars add a nostalgic charm to the experience, inviting passengers to immerse themselves in both the beauty of the surroundings and the thematic revelry onboard. The Easter Egg Express offers a unique blend of travel, tradition, and fun, making it an ideal springtime outing for families.
Sacramento RiverTrain’s Easter Eggspress
Board the Sacramento RiverTrain’s Easter Eggspress for an enchanting journey through Sacramento's beautiful countryside. This special themed ride not only includes picturesque views of fertile farmlands and the serene Sacramento River but also features engaging Easter activities.
Young passengers can partake in meet-and-greets with the Easter Bunny, join exciting Easter egg hunts, and indulge in a variety of arts and crafts activities. Adults can relax in the cozy train cars while enjoying snacks and beverages available onboard. The RiverTrain’s unique open-air cars provide an optimal viewing experience of the unfolding springtime scenery.
Napa Valley Wine Train’s Easter Brunch
For those seeking a more sophisticated Easter experience, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a luxurious brunch trip through the heart of California’s wine country.
As you savor a gourmet meal prepared by world-class chefs, this elegant locomotive ride takes you through sweeping vineyards and charming townships, offering panoramic views of one of the state’s most iconic regions.
This Easter brunch journey is perfect for couples or families looking to celebrate in a refined setting, with menus often featuring special seasonal treats and, of course, local wines to toast the occasion.
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum's Bunny Train
The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, located in Campo, California, is a dedicated institution that preserves and showcases the rich history of railroading in the Southwestern United States.
Established with a mission to educate and engage the public, the museum features an extensive collection of vintage locomotives, railcars, and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits and enjoy scenic train rides through the picturesque San Diego backcountry, offering a glimpse into the golden era of rail travel.
One of the museum's most beloved events is the annual Bunny Train, a family-friendly experience typically held during the Easter season. This festive event invites families to embark on a fun and memorable journey aboard a vintage train, decorated with springtime themes.
During the ride, children have the chance to meet and interact with the Easter Bunny, participate in Easter-themed crafts, and enjoy interactive storytelling sessions. The Bunny Train provides an enchanting outing that combines historical education with seasonal fun, making it a hit with both children and adults alike. By blending the magic of Easter with the nostalgia of train travel, the Bunny Train continues to be a cherished tradition for families in the region.
Roaring Camp Railroads’ Eggstraordinary Easter Egg Hunt
Nestled among the towering redwoods, Roaring Camp Railroads offers an unbeatable escape into nature.
Owned and operated by the same organization that operates the Skunk Train the Roaring Camp features a number of different trains including a beach train and forest train.
One of their specials is the Eggstraordinary Easter Egg Hunt where the kids get to see the Easter Bunny, ride behind a steam locomotive, and scavenge for chocolate eggs!
Skunk Train’s Easter Express
The iconic Skunk Train, winding its way through the majestic redwoods of Mendocino County, provides a magical setting for an Easter adventure.
The 2-hour Easter Express invites families aboard for a delightful journey through the forest. Special activities include a visit from the Easter Bunny, photo opportunities, and an Easter egg hunt amidst the towering trees.
The Skunk Train’s open-air observation car allows passengers to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area, making for a memorable Easter outing in the great outdoors.
Tips for Your Easter Train Adventure
Book in Advance: Easter train rides are popular and tend to sell out quickly. Make reservations as early as possible to secure your spot.
Dress Comfortably: Consider the weather and dress in layers. Being prepared for outdoor-themed activities is a good idea.
Arrive Early: Allow time to explore any station exhibitions or onboard displays before the train departs.
Capture the Moments: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery and festive memories.
Check for Special Deals: Some railways offer family packages or early bird discounts, so it’s worth checking ahead for deals.
This Easter, hop on board one of California’s scenic trains for a journey filled with laughter, delicious food, and beautiful vistas. Whether traveling through wine country, ancient forests, or lush farmlands, these Easter-themed rides offer a perfect blend of adventure and holiday cheer.
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