Santa Express — Sugar Express

Sugar Express, an outreach, education and tourism program of U.S. Sugar, runs the Santa Express as a two-hour round trip with no particular destination, leaving from Clewiston, Florida. The operator describes a historic passenger car dressed with twinkling lights, festive decorations and carols, the aroma of cookies, and Florida's sugarcane countryside passing the windows.

Midway through the trip Santa Claus climbs aboard, greets every child, and hands out cookies and a commemorative gift to take home. Passengers can then visit an open-air car for a look at the passing scenery. First Class guests also receive locally made sweets, hot chocolate and desserts.

The operator sells open-air car seats, deluxe coach seats, First Class tavern and observation seats, a First Class table for four in a dining car, and a private Pullman car.

A two-hour round trip with no destination: holiday decorations and carols on board, cookies, a visit from Santa midway through the ride, and a commemorative gift for each child. First Class guests are served sweets, hot chocolate and desserts (observation seats: appetizers and light refreshments). Deluxe coach seating is open and unassigned, and drinks can be bought on board (credit or debit card only).

Parking and boarding for all trips departing Clewiston are at 165 Basilan Crescent, Clewiston, Florida. Passengers must arrive at least 30 minutes before departure and the train cannot be held for late arrivals; tickets of no-shows are released for resale 10 minutes before departure. Wear sturdy, closed shoes: boarding sites can have uneven footing, heavy gravel and steps as high as 20 inches. Due to the historic equipment none of the cars is ADA accessible, but the train can accommodate guests with walkers and scooters who can manage the steps with staff help. Only designated service animals are permitted. All cars except the open-air car are heated and air conditioned, and restrooms are on the train. The train runs rain or shine; in a hurricane advisory trips may be rescheduled.