Massachusetts Christmas Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Last revised: January 3, 2025
By: Adam Burns
Massachusetts is home to the first railroad in the United States, the Granite Railway which opened in 1826. The little line never used a steam locomotive (initially) and was built largely to move granite slabs for construction of the the Bunker Hill Monument project.
At its peak, Massachusetts contained more than 2,100 miles of railroads. Most of this was operated by the famous New Haven system, along with the Boston & Maine and Boston & Albany (New York Central). As such, the state has a long and interesting history with the iron horse that dates back to its earliest days in North America.
In addition, Massachusetts was home to several electrified streetcar and interurban systems which were once prominent throughout New England. Today, both are recognized at a number of museums and heritage railroads found within the state.
The information presented here highlights those organizations which offer train rides during the Christmas season. These trips are typically themed around meeting Santa Claus or a visit to the "North Pole" by train although each organization offers their own unique aspect to the experience. They are quite popular and usually sell out quickly!
Overview
Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum
(Shelburne Falls): Another museum dedicated to New England's rich interurban and streetcar heritage.
The group began in the 1990's when Marshall Johnson donated Shelburne Falls & Colrain Street Railway trolley car #10. The SF&CS was the town's local streetcar service. It opened in 1896 and served Buckland, Shelburne and Colrain.
Alas, it proved an early casualty to the automobile and service was suspended in 1927. Interestingly, Massachusetts holds a rare distinction in history; it is the only state to contain more streetcar/interurban trackage than traditional, standard-gauge freight railroads.
This occurred in 1917; afterwards the state's streetcar network rapidly disappeared. The museum offers their Moonlight Magic Friday on the Friday after Thanksgiving.
The town is bedecked in holiday lights, stores throughout the town (Shelburne Falls) are open late, and the museum gives trolley rides in equipment dressed with holiday lights.
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