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A Virginia Christmas Train Ride On The Santa Express!

Published: October 30, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Set in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the Virginia Scenic Railway offers a timeless way to experience Virginia’s mountains, small towns, and railroad heritage.

Based in Staunton and operated in partnership with the Buckingham Branch Railroad, the railway runs vintage passenger cars on mainline tracks that have linked communities for more than a century.

With comfortable, climate‑controlled coaches and a relaxed pace, it’s an easy day trip for couples, families, and railfans alike. And when the holidays arrive, its Santa Express becomes one of the most sought-after seasonal outings in the region.

About The Virginia Scenic Railway

Departures from Staunton’s historic depot: Trains leave from downtown Staunton, a walkable district with restaurants, boutiques, and Victorian architecture. It’s a convenient base for a full day out—train ride first, dinner and shopping after.

Two core excursions: The railway typically runs two named routes most of the year.

Blue Ridge Flyer: Heads east from Staunton toward the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Alleghany Special: Heads west toward the highlands often called the Alleghany/Allegheny Mountains.

Both showcase rolling farmland, river valleys, mountain cuts and tunnels, and the working railroad that still moves freight across Virginia.

Vintage rail experience: The consist usually includes refurbished mid‑century passenger cars with large picture windows. Seating is reserved, the ride is unhurried, and the crew shares a passion for preserving railroad traditions. On regular (non-holiday) excursions, the railway emphasizes the charm of classic rail travel; check the current schedule for whether food service is part of your specific trip.

Why Staunton Is A Great Departure Point

Staunton sits at a crossroads of rail lines and history. The depot anchors the city’s Wharf District, where rail commerce once defined daily life.

Today you can park in nearby public lots and garages, stroll a few blocks to board, and make a day of it—catch a matinee at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, explore the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, or simply wander the brick-lined streets.

The city’s size keeps logistics manageable, while the scenery turns spectacular within minutes of departure.

Inside the Santa Express

As fall turns to winter, the Virginia Scenic Railway shifts into holiday mode with the Santa Express, a festive, family‑focused excursion that has quickly become one of the area’s most popular traditions. Here’s what to expect and how to plan.

Atmosphere and onboard experience: Cars are festively decorated, holiday music sets the mood, and Santa makes time to visit with children in each car. The experience is designed to deliver holiday cheer more than long-distance sightseeing, making it approachable even for very young riders. The ride is round‑trip and returns to the same Staunton depot where you board.

Duration: The Santa Express is a shorter outing than the railway’s regular excursions. Exact ride time can vary by year and departure, but families often find it just right for kids’ attention spans. Check the current season’s listing for the published duration.

Dates and frequency: The Santa Express typically operates on select dates from late November into December, often with multiple departures per day on peak weekends. The schedule is announced ahead of the season and can sell out quickly.

What’s included: The focus is time with Santa and the festive setting. Some holiday trains around the country include extras like cocoa, cookies, or small keepsakes; offerings for the Santa Express can change from year to year, so consult the official listing for what’s included this season.

How To Get Tickets (And Not Miss Out)

Watch for the announcement: The Santa Express release is eagerly anticipated. Sign up for the Virginia Scenic Railway email list and follow their official channels so you know the exact on‑sale date.

Book early, especially for weekends: Prime times, like daytime runs on Saturdays and Sundays, are often the first to go. Weekday or later-evening departures may offer more availability.

Arrive early on the day: Downtown Staunton is compact, but the depot area gets busy around departure times. Arrive with enough buffer to park, use restrooms, and board without rushing. Boarding gates typically close shortly before departure.

What Sets The Santa Express Apart

It balances nostalgia and convenience. You get the classic trappings—vintage railcars, the rhythm of steel wheels, friendly attendants—without a long travel day. Most families can make a half-day outing of it.

It’s real railroad. The Virginia Scenic Railway runs on an active short line used by freight, which adds authenticity for kids and railfans. You’re not looping a museum siding—you’re heading out on the main.

Community feel. Because departures are from a walkable small city, the experience feels personable rather than crowded. That warmth fits the season.

Planning a Full Virginia Scenic Railway Day

If your schedule allows, consider pairing a regular excursion with your holiday plans on a different date. The Blue Ridge Flyer gives a taste of eastward mountain railroading, while the Alleghany Special heads toward higher country in the other direction—two distinct moods, both scenic. Regular rides often last several hours and may feature onboard dining service; they’re a great way to slow down and let the landscape come to you.

Why It’s Worth It

There’s something unmistakably soothing about a train ride: the cadence of the rails, the framing of countryside through a window, the chance to be present without having to drive.

The Virginia Scenic Railway leans into those strengths, and the Santa Express adds a layer of sparkle that delights children and rekindles adults’ sense of wonder. Whether you’re a local looking to make a new tradition or a visitor pairing Staunton’s small‑city charm with a memorable holiday outing, it’s an experience that feels both special and easy to enjoy.

For current dates, fares, inclusions, and to join the email list for ticket announcements, visit the Virginia Scenic Railway’s official site. Details can change from season to season, and popular departures sell out quickly, so a little advance planning goes a long way.