Santa Express at Staunton — Virginia Scenic Railway

The Virginia Scenic Railway, owned and operated by Buckingham Branch Railroad, runs its Santa Express from its boarding location at 415 Bridge Street in Staunton, Virginia. The operator describes a festively decorated train with cheerful music, sweet treats and a visit from Santa, who walks through the train to greet every guest. The run time is expected to be about 60 minutes, which the operator says is the right length for younger railfans.

The railway offers several ways to ride from Staunton. Coach Class has seats that all face the same direction with tray tables for coloring and cookie nibbling, a holiday cookie at boarding, a cup of hot chocolate, a goody bag with mini candy canes and a coloring sheet, and a souvenir Santa coin. Table Seating gives reserved seats at private tables of two or four with plated cookies, hot chocolate or coffee and a personal visit with Santa. Upper Dome Seating offers reserved seats in the upper dome. All classes include a visit from Santa.

The railway also runs a Santa Express from its Louisa location, and an adults-only (21+) Holiday Spirits experience on selected dates. Those are separate offers from this all-ages ride.

About 60 minutes aboard a decorated train with holiday music, a holiday cookie, hot chocolate (or coffee in the table and dome seatings) and a walk-through visit from Santa. Coach Class children get a goody bag with mini candy canes and a coloring sheet, and a souvenir Santa coin. Festive attire is welcome; the operator advises dressing warmly because the platform can be chilly before boarding.

Boards at the Virginia Scenic Railway's Staunton boarding location, 415 Bridge Street, Staunton, Virginia (take I-81 exit 222 and follow US-250 West). Children aged two and under may ride free on the lap of a ticketed adult. The operator's booking page lists the Staunton ride as not handicap accessible and shows prices that include fees. All classes include a visit from Santa. Table Seating seats parties at tables of two or four; larger parties are seated at adjacent tables. Holiday Spirits departures, offered on selected dates, are adults-only (21+): choose an all-ages departure for children. Phone: 866-440-8356; email info@virginiascenicrailway.com.