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A New Hampshire Christmas Train Ride On Santa’s Holiday Express!

Published: October 29, 2025

By: Adam Burns

The Conway Scenic Railroad is a quintessential New England experience, a living museum on rails based in the heart of North Conway Village, New Hampshire. Operating from the beautifully restored 1874 depot, the railroad carries visitors through the Mount Washington Valley and, in warmer months, deep into the dramatic granite cuts and high trestles of Crawford Notch.

For many families, though, it’s the holiday season that keeps them coming back. That’s when the station glows with lights, coaches are decked out in garlands, and Santa’s Holiday Express transforms a classic train ride into a timeless tradition.

About the Conway Scenic Railroad

Established in 1974 to preserve and operate historic rail lines in the White Mountains, the Conway Scenic Railroad runs on former Boston & Maine and Maine Central trackage. Its home base—the North Conway depot—is a Victorian-era showpiece with a working roundhouse and turntable just steps from Main Street. The setting alone makes it worth a visit: mountain views, vintage signals, and the sight of classic locomotives idling near the platform create an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate.

The railroad operates several excursions. The Valley Train offers short, family-friendly trips south to Conway or north to Bartlett, generally lasting between 55 minutes and nearly two hours depending on the route. In summer and fall, the Notch Train climbs the former Maine Central Mountain Division into Crawford Notch, traversing some of the most scenic and storied railroad miles in the Northeast. Equipment varies by season, but the roster often includes meticulously maintained vintage diesel locomotives and, on select dates, a steam locomotive that draws railfans and photographers from far and wide.

What sets the Conway Scenic apart is the authenticity of the experience. Cars and locomotives are heritage pieces, staffed by friendly crews who know the line’s history. You’re not just looking at artifacts—you’re riding in them, with mountain landscapes streaming past the window.

Introducing Santa’s Holiday Express
Santa’s Holiday Express is the railroad’s signature seasonal ride, offered on select dates from late November into December. It’s designed with families in mind: a cheerful, festive journey that’s long enough to feel special but short enough to suit young riders. The trip typically runs about an hour roundtrip along the Valley line, most often toward Conway, which keeps the focus on the onboard experience while still giving you a taste of winter-in-the-Valley scenery.

Here’s what makes Santa’s Holiday Express so popular:

- A personal visit from Santa. Instead of a distant glimpse at the end of a long line, kids meet Santa as he moves through the train, spending a moment with each family. Expect photo opportunities and plenty of smiles.
- Festive atmosphere. Cars are decorated for the season, and the mood is relaxed and merry. It feels like stepping into a holiday postcard set in motion.
- Engaging hosts. Attentive car attendants and Santa’s helpers keep things lively, often with light-hearted banter, holiday music, and seasonal cheer.
- Keepsakes for kids. In many years, children receive a small gift or treat. The specific item can vary by season, so consider it a bonus rather than a guarantee.

Because the railroad partners with local organizations for other holiday experiences, it’s important to know this is a distinct event. Santa’s Holiday Express is a daytime, family-forward ride produced by the Conway Scenic Railroad. The separately ticketed “Journey to the North Pole,” run in cooperation with the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation, is an evening storytelling adventure with different logistics and programming. Both are memorable, but they are not the same, and tickets are not interchangeable.

Practical planning tips
- Book early. Holiday trains sell out quickly—often weeks in advance—especially on peak weekends and closer to Christmas.
- Choose your class. The railroad typically offers Coach seating and, on some dates, First Class or premium seating in upgraded or parlor-style cars. The onboard experience is similar, but premium seating may offer roomier accommodations or added touches. Availability can vary by date.
- Arrive early. Parking is adjacent to the depot, but North Conway Village is busy during the holidays. Arriving 30–45 minutes before departure gives you time to pick up tickets (if needed), snap station photos, and settle in without rushing.
- Dress warmly. Even with heated cars, platforms can be cold and breezy. Winter footwear is a must if snow is on the ground.
- Accessibility. The historic nature of the equipment can limit full ADA accessibility on some cars. The railroad works to accommodate guests, but if anyone in your party has mobility needs, contact the ticket office ahead of time to confirm arrangements.
- Strollers and gear. Space can be tight onboard. Plan to leave bulky strollers in your vehicle or in designated areas per staff guidance.
- Food and restrooms. Some cars have restrooms, but plan for limited onboard amenities. Snacks are sometimes available at or near the station; bringing simple, tidy snacks for young children is a good idea unless the railroad’s current rules say otherwise.

What you’ll see and feel
This ride is about atmosphere as much as scenery. The route glides past winter fields, river views, and wooded stretches, all prettier with a fresh coat of snow. Inside, it’s warm and convivial. You’ll notice the craftsmanship of the cars—polished wood, brass accents, period lighting—details that heighten the sense of stepping back in time. Because the journey is compact, there’s very little downtime; the visit from Santa, the gentle rhythm of the train, and the novelty of riding rails in winter keep children engaged.

Behind the scenes, the crew keeps a tight schedule and a keen eye on safety. Heritage railroading depends on careful maintenance and experienced hands, and the Conway Scenic’s staff take pride in both. Ask a question and you’ll likely get a thoughtful answer; they genuinely enjoy sharing how the railroad operates.

Making it part of a White Mountains getaway
One reason Santa’s Holiday Express resonates is how easily it fits into a broader holiday escape. The depot sits in North Conway Village, within walking distance of shops, cafés, and photo-worthy spots for a post-ride stroll. Many families pair a morning or afternoon train with lunch on Main Street, shopping at nearby outlets, or a visit to area attractions. If you’re staying overnight, local inns and resorts often add their own holiday touches—lights, cocoa by the fire, decorated trees—that match the mood of the train.

A few pro tips for smooth sailing
- Flexibility helps. Weekday rides are usually less crowded than Saturday peak times.
- Build buffer time. Weather can slow road travel in the mountains; leave extra time so you’re not watching the clock.
- Keep expectations age-appropriate. For toddlers and preschoolers, the one-hour format is ideal. If your school-age children love trains, arrive early to watch switching moves or locomotives at the turntable, if operations allow.
- Expect variability. Specifics like gifts, character appearances, or equipment can change year to year. Treat whatever the railroad promises for your date as the source of truth.

Why it matters
Heritage railroads do more than entertain. They preserve skills, equipment, and stories that might otherwise fade, and they create shared experiences that become family lore. Santa’s Holiday Express taps into that. It’s simple and sincere: a real train, a real Santa, a real sense of occasion. In an era of screens and simulators, the authenticity is refreshing.

How to get the latest details
Dates, departure times, seating options, and pricing for Santa’s Holiday Express can vary by season and sell out quickly. For the most accurate, up-to-date information—or to book your seats—visit the Conway Scenic Railroad’s official website or call their ticket office. If you’re coordinating with other events, double-check whether you’re booking Santa’s Holiday Express or the separately produced Journey to the North Pole.

If you’re looking for a holiday tradition that feels both classic and close-to-home, Santa’s Holiday Express delivers. It’s as much about slowing down and savoring the moment as it is about getting somewhere. In that way, it captures the very best of the season—and the enduring charm of rail travel in the White Mountains.