Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s Holiday Express Train
Explore Blue Ridge’s Holiday Express train experience with an abundance of festivities.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly things to do for the holidays or seeking a scenic ride, this attraction captivates train riders of all ages. Looking for an activity like a Blue Ridge Christmas train? Hop aboard Blue Ridge’s Santa-featured train, where magical holiday memories await.
Every year, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway features a series of winter rides, including glowing string lights, festive garlands, delectable treats, and the stunning Georgia landscape. Embark on a historic railroad path that unveils a wintery experience.
Event Details
When:
November 28 - December 24th, 2026 | Rides at 10 AM, 12 PM, and 2 PM
Where:
Board the train at Blue Ridge Scenic Railway stop | 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.
Ticket Information
| Ticket Type | Age Range | Price |
| Adult | 13+ Years of Age | $56.99 |
| Child | 2-12 Years of Age | $46.99 |
| Infant | 0-23 Months | Free |
Purchase your tickets on the Blue Ridge Railway website.
Ride Details
What to Expect
This Blue Ridge Christmas train ride showcases holiday cheer through engaging activities and a festive atmosphere. Looking for kid-friendly activities? Make your way to exciting entertainment, breathtaking views, and more:
Activities
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy spotting Georgia’s natural beauty while basking in the holiday spirit. Children will also enjoy crafts and activities available on the ride. In previous years, coloring books have been handed out to guests, and holiday bells were distributed. This year's information is TBA.
Food & Drinks
Little train goers will enjoy candy canes and other sweet treats. For more mouthwatering bites, head to the concession car for a variety of snacks and sip from decadent cups of hot chocolate.
Entertainment
Create unforgettable family memories while meeting and taking pictures with Santa Claus. Listen to festive music and dive into an engaging storytelling session for “The Night Before Christmas," all while learning about the landscape, the train itself, and more from your tour guide.
Keep your eyes peeled for additional characters who may be roaming the train cars, like the Grinch and Jack Frost!
Closed Coach VS. Open-Air Coach
The closed coach train cars are enclosed spaces with sealed windows and climate control. These train cars feature cushioned seats arranged in groups of four, with two pairs of seats facing one another. These are ideal for those with infant children or elderly grandparents to avoid the chilly air from the open-air seats.
The open-air coach has open cutouts for windows that allow the environment to help shape your experience on the train. Fresh air dictates the temperature of this train car and can give young explorers a more unique look at their surroundings. The seats within this space are cushioned benches that face outward toward the windows with an aisle separating the seats down the middle.
Tips for Attending the Holiday Express
- If you experience motion sickness, we recommend reserving a seat on the open-air car to get fresh air while riding the Holiday Express.
- This is a popular event. If you're looking to ride the Holiday Express this season, order your tickets in advance!
- Want the best views? Sit on the right side of the train car.
- Consider bringing a blanket to make the experience all the more cozy.
- The train boards 30 minutes before departure, and seats are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is your best bet to grab a seat for the whole family without the worry of having to split up.
Discover More Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Winter Rides
Looking for more? While the Holiday Express tour doesn’t include a layover, Blue Ridge Scenic Railway features a series of longer festive rides. Explore the four-hour Holiday Pavilion Tour, including a round-trip experience, a two-hour layover, and opportunities to visit spots such as McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee. This tour has limited dates and will only be held on December 5 and December 19.
For season-focused rides, explore the two-hour Winter Express Tour or the four-hour Winter Extended Tour, embarking on an adventure with padded seating and retro-style interiors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Blue Ridge Holiday Express train ride?
The Holiday Express train ride is one hour long.
Where is there parking near the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot?
The Trackside Parking Station is a large parking garage off W First Street and an ideal spot, just one block from the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot. There is a second parking lot off W First Street across from Grace Prime Steakhouse.
There is also street parking available throughout the downtown area. Find free street parking on East and West Main Street by the playground and courthouse. On East and West Main Street between Mountain Street and Church Street, there is 3-hour parking, which also has handicap parking spots.
What is the Holiday Express train's schedule?
The Holiday Express train has three scheduled excursions on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 AM, 12 PM, and 2 PM. These times are also offered during the week of Christmas, with the final ride at 2 PM on Christmas Eve.
What should I wear on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Holiday Express?
If your tickets are for the closed coach, you'll be able to take off the heavy jackets for the winter, as it is enclosed and climate-controlled. Festive outfits are encouraged, however, so consider wearing your most holiday-inspired sweater.
If your tickets are for the open-air coach, be aware that the weather will dictate the temperature in the train car. Wear jackets and sweaters, and consider bringing a blanket for your lap.
Does Santa make an appearance on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Holiday Express?
Yes! Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus both make an appearance on the train. In previous years, the Grinch and Jack Frost have made an appearance. Both Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photo opportunities with your family.
Are dogs allowed on the Blue Ridge Holiday Express?
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway only allows service animals on board its train cars.
Is the Blue Ridge Holiday Express train good for toddlers?
Yes! The Holiday Express train is great for toddlers! With the visit of many characters, beautiful views, a unique venue, and a shortened train ride, the ride is a great way to treat your little one to a one-of-a-kind experience.
Is the Holiday Express train wheelchair accessible?
Yes! The train has two wheelchair-accessible entrances. Additionally, train car 405 is an accessible ride, with a handicap bathroom and one of the chair-lift entrances.
If you or someone in your party requires accessibility assistance, or you're looking to reserve a seat within the handicap train car, please call (877) 413-8724 for these specialized tickets.
What is the Blue Ridge Holiday Express train refund and weather policy?
Refunds are accepted up to 48 hours prior to the departure of the train, as shown on your ticket. These refunds will deduct $10 from each adult ticket and $5 from each child's ticket.
If you've purchased Trip Protection, you're allowed a grace period of up to two hours before the train's departure for a refund.
The train does run during all weather conditions; however, if the weather makes it dangerous for staff or guests to travel, the train ride will be cancelled, and guests will be offered a refund or a missed trip pass to reschedule their experience.
Are there restaurants nearby for before or after train ride meals?
Yes!
For Breakfast or Brunch:
For Lunch or Dinner:
With a thriving culinary scene, live music venues, vast outdoor areas, and plenty of places to shop, Blue Ridge is a top-rated destination for the holidays.