This 90-minute Train Through Napa Valley Is Perfect for the Holidays — and There's a Dome Car to Enjoy Scenic Views
"I boarded a beautifully restored antique rail car for the Napa Valley Wine Train’s festive Santa Train, a family-friendly holiday journey featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate, carolers, and the chance to drop postcards for Santa at the Napa station. Running Nov. 29–Dec. 23, the experience offers four options: the Cookie Car (hot chocolate and a holiday cookie with Santa); the Gourmet Holiday Express in the antique Pullman dining car (a three-course, kid-friendly meal plus a tableside visit and a printed and digital photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus); Jingle on the Rails for adults (a seat in the Pullman lounge car with a three-course Napa Valley–inspired holiday dinner and tableside visit/photo); and the Very Merry Vista Dome car (big picture windows and the most elaborate three-course Napa-inspired menu, also with a tableside visit and photo). Onboard wine, beer, and holiday-themed cocktails are available for purchase. Each trip departs shortly after 6 p.m., travels about 18 miles north before turning around near the redwoods of Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, and returns by 8 p.m.; there’s also a toy donation drop for Napa’s Expressions of Hope and a portion of proceeds benefits Napa Firewise. Tickets start at $100 for adults and $80 for children, and reservations can be made by calling (707) 253-2111 or via the Napa Valley Wine Train reservation page." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
