Yuletide Express & Santa Limited Train Rides
Passengers take a round-trip train ride past Snoqualmie Falls for views of the Snoqualmie River Valley from historic enclosed coaches. Santa walks through the train to visit every family during the trip while his helper presents a surprise gift to each child. Upon returning to the depot, everyone receives a peppermint stick as they disembark.
What to Expect
A 40-minute scenic holiday train ride with Santa visiting each family.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 40 minutes round trip.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Snoqualmie Valley
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Northwest Railway Museum
Food & Drink
No food is sold aboard; only water may be consumed inside the coaches, and each guest receives a peppermint stick when disembarking.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Tickets are $30 for everyone age 2 and up; tickets are required for all guests aged two and up. The ticket includes the train ride, visit with Santa, surprise gift, and peppermint treat. – Get tickets
- Hours: Trains depart every hour on the hour beginning at 9 AM.
- Parking: Free parking is available in the lots and streets of downtown Snoqualmie.
- Accessibility: A wheelchair lift is available for boarding the train.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed aboard the train or inside Museum buildings. Fully trained service animals are permitted.
Tips & Advice
- Buy your tickets as early as you can, because the Yuletide Express always sells out soon after tickets go on sale.
- Arrive at least 25 minutes before your departure so you have time to park and use the restrooms, because there are none on the train.
- If you want to sit together, board together, because tickets are assigned by departure time, not by seat.
- Dress for rain, wind or snow, because the trains run in any weather and the boarding lines are outside.
- Keep your tickets on your phone or print them at home, and remember that staff only need the last name on the order at check-in.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages is the Yuletide Express good for?
It works for family members of any age. The 40-minute ride can suit younger kids better than a 2-hour excursion, since they may not have the patience for a longer trip.
How do the kids get to see Santa?
Santa walks through the train and visits every family on board. His helper gives each child a surprise gift.
Do we have to pay for photos?
No. Museum staff will take photos of your family on your own phone or camera.
Can we eat or drink on the train?
No food is sold on board, and the Museum asks that nobody eat or drink anything but water inside the historic coaches. Everyone gets a peppermint stick when they get off, and there are restaurants in downtown Snoqualmie for before or after the ride.
Can I bring a stroller?
You can park your stroller at the Snoqualmie Depot while you ride, since you stay on the train the whole time.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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