New York Christmas Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Published: March 10, 2025
By: Adam Burns
New York, with its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. One of the most enchanting ways to experience this transformation is through a Christmas-themed train ride.
These festive journeys offer a unique blend of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and holiday spirit. Whether you are a resident or just visiting, these magical train rides promise to bring holiday cheer for passengers of all ages. Here's a guide to some of the best Christmas-themed train rides across the state.
Arcade & Attica Railroad (Arcade)
The historic Arcade & Attica has an interesting and fascinating story. It began in 1917 for the purpose of providing local freight service between its namesake towns as well as the communities of Sierks, Earls, Varysburg, Johnsonburg, Perrys, North Java, Java Center, Curriers, and Arcade Center.
The road's primary freight was agricultural products (it interchanged with the Pennsylvania Railroad at Arcade and with the Erie Railroad at Attica). It was a total of 28.36 miles in length.
Alas, it was abandoned above North Java in 1947 following severe flooding that year along Tonawanda Creek. This resulted in the northern 13.22 miles being abandoned, leaving 15.14 miles which is still in operation today.
The railroad remains in the freight business while also providing public excursions.
During Christmas it hosts the North Pole Express; this trip lasts about 2.5 hours and operates most weekends from mid-November through December where kids are encouraged to dress in their PJ's while visiting Santa and enjoying hot cocoa and cookies.
Please be aware that these trains use open-air cars so be sure to dress accordingly.
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad (Cooperstown)
While Cooperstown is most famous for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, you can also experience a train ride there!
The C&CV's heritage can be traced back to 1865 when promoters sought a connection with the national rail network. After four years of work this endeavor was completed in the summer of 1869.
The 16-mile railroad, which connected with the then-Albany & Susquehanna Rail Road near Colliersville, subsequently went through several owners during the next 127 years.
In 1996 the Leatherstocking Railway Historical Society acquired the property with intentions of running excursions. After a few years of tireless efforts the first rebuilt segment opened to the public in 1999.
Since then the group has restored more of the property and eventually plans for complete restoration of the line.
During the holidays they offer two different events:
- The Santa Claus Express (The train is quite festive and decorated for Christmas. During the 2.5-hour trip kids can enjoy refreshments, meet Santa, receive a gift provided by the parent[s]/guardian[s], and enjoy holiday music.)
- North Pole Express (Similar to the Santa Claus Express this trip last 2 hours and departs from the Milford Depot. During the journey kids see Christmas lights along the tracks, enjoy music, and stop at the North Pole Station.)
Catskill Mountain Railroad (Kingston Plaza)
Located just over an hour from New York City the Catskill Mountain Railroad has been a popular Kingston attraction since it launched in 1982 over the former New York Central's Catskill Mountain Branch (originally built as the Ulster & Delaware Railroad).
In 1979 Ulster County acquired 38.6 miles of the line from bankrupt Penn Central estate with plans to launch tourist and freight service over the corridor.
After working to rebuild the tracks the effort was initially successful and service was restored to Conrail at Kingston. However, flooding has wreaked havoc on the corridor over the years placing various sections out-of-service.
Then, in the 2010's the county expressed interest in removing part of the line for a rail/trail. After a fight with the railroad ensued, the county eventually got its way and tore up 11.5 miles in 2018.
Today, the Catskill Mountain Railroad enjoys thousands of annual visitors operating about 5 miles of the route between Kingston and Stony Hollow.
For many years the group hosted official The Polar Express rides within climate-controlled cars. In 2021 the company launched their own Christmas train rides known as the Catskill Christmas Express.
The 60-minute ride travels through the Catskills until reaching Santa's Workshop at the North Pole. During the trip, guests receive a cookie (locally baked) and a small gift.
Please be aware that these trains use open-air cars so be sure to dress accordingly.
Tips for a Magical Train Experience
Book Early: Due to their popularity, it's essential to book these train rides well in advance to secure a spot on your preferred date and time.
Dress Warmly: While the trains are heated, New York in December can be quite cold, so bundle up with warm layers, hats, and gloves, especially if you’ll be spending time at outdoor events.
Pajamas and Festive Attire: Many rides encourage wearing pajamas or festive attire, enhancing the holiday experience.
Photography: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the magical moments and scenic views.
Engage with the Experience: Singing carols, taking photos with Santa, and enjoying the complimentary snacks can enhance the festive mood.
Christmas-themed train rides in New York offer not just a journey across picturesque landscapes but a journey into the magic and wonder of the holiday season. Each ride is unique, serving up a delightful mix of holiday cheer, nostalgia, and entertainment.
Whether you're enjoying the story of The Polar Express or meeting Santa at a charming little village, these excursions create memories that last a lifetime. So grab your tickets, put on your coziest holiday pajamas, and hop aboard for an unforgettable Christmas experience.
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