Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Northern Lights Limited & Santa Express
Embark on the enchanting Northern Lights Limited, an evening train journey departing from Thomaston Station to Santa's Workshop. As night falls, the train comes alive with a soft, cheerful glow from its festive interior and exterior lights. Upon arrival at Santa's Workshop, Santa and Mrs. Claus board to greet passengers. Enjoy a magical ride as they visit with children, delivering special gifts and bells, while carols fill the air. Multiple seating options are available, from comfortable coach seats to luxurious private lounges.
What to Expect
Illuminated evening train ride with Santa's visit.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is free onsite at the Thomaston station, including handicapped-accessible parking spots. Carpooling is encouraged. During Christmas trains, a $10 premium parking pass is available, limited to 10 passes per departure, ensuring parking close to the station.
- Accessibility: This Event is NOT wheelchair accessible. There are no restrooms for coach class. Restrooms are located just south of the station.
- Pets: No outside alcohol is permitted. Service animals are not explicitly mentioned but given the context of a historic train, it's likely service animals only.
Other Christmas Events Near Thomaston
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, magical, nostalgic
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Prices remain the same as 2024 for 2025.
- Premium parking passes available for purchase.
- Trip protection plan available for Christmas trains.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Ages
Toddlers under 2 ride free on an adult's lap. Car seats not allowed.
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Railroad Museum of New England
Food & Drink
Hot Chocolate and cookies are available for purchase from the Nutmeg Fudge Company at the station. No outside food or drink is permitted on board.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for parking, picking up tickets at Will Call, and using the restrooms before boarding.
- Since car seats are not permitted, consider bringing a baby carrier for toddlers under 2 who ride for free but must be on an adult's lap.
- Book tickets well in advance, especially for popular dates, as these trains often sell out. Consider purchasing the trip protection plan for added flexibility.
- While restrooms are limited on board, they are available at the station. Plan accordingly before departure, especially for coach class passengers.
- Explore the different classes of service, from standard coach seats to private lounges, to find the perfect experience for your group.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Thomaston Station?
The museum is located at 242 East Main Street, Thomaston, CT. Due to GPS sometimes directing visitors to the overpass, it's recommended to follow the specific directions provided on their website for the most accurate route.
How early should we arrive for our train?
It is advised to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time to allow for parking, ticket pickup at the Will Call window, and restroom use before boarding.
Are car seats or strollers allowed on the train?
No, car seats and strollers are not permitted on the historic trains due to limited space. Toddlers under 2 ride for free but must be seated on an adult's lap.
What happens if there is bad weather?
Trains run in rain or snow unless the State of Connecticut officially closes roads. In such cases, refunds or rescheduling will be offered.
Can tickets be transferred or refunded?
All tickets are generally non-refundable and non-exchangeable, except when a trip protection plan is purchased. Transfers may be possible for some trains if requested at least 7 days in advance, with a potential fee.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.