1 / 3Railroad Museum of New England
📍 Thomaston, NY
Seasonal themed train rides on authentic vintage Naugatuck Railroad cars. Christmas trains include Santa and Mrs. Claus visits, hot chocolate, cookies, balloon animals, Connecticut bells, and gifts for children.
Wow what a wonderful Christmas train- fully decked out with the most wonderful staff, elves, Rudolph, Santa and Mrs. Claus spending time with each child. We rode the observation car and it was the most wonderful holiday excursion, from hot chocolate to cookies, to balloon animals made by the elves, to the elves passing out a LEGO engine kit to our grandchildren, Christmas hats for all, adult beverages and beautiful scenery. It was a true wonderland! If you have a young child or grandchild this is not to be missed. I think people of any age would enjoy this trip.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with young children during the holiday season — the Christmas train delivers a genuinely immersive experience with personal Santa time, continuous entertainment, and generous gifts. Reviewers consistently rate it above competing regional holiday trains for value and atmosphere.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →744 Google reviews
Susan Medyn
4 months ago
“Wow what a wonderful Christmas train- fully decked out with the most wonderful staff, elves, Rudolph, Santa and Mrs. Claus spending time with each child. We rode the observation car and it was the most wonderful holiday excursion, from hot chocolate to cookies, to balloon animals made by the elves, to the elves passing out a LEGO engine kit to our grandchildren, Christmas hats for all, adult beverages and beautiful scenery. It was a true wonderland! If you have a young child or grandchild this is not to be missed. I think people of any age would enjoy this trip.”
Susan Lane Spremullo
3 months ago
“What an incredible holiday experience! The Northern Lights Limited at the Railroad Museum of New England exceeded every expectation. The ride was cozy, festive, and filled with continuous surprises — Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate and cookies, balloon creations, Santa hats, sleigh bells, and a stuffed train for each child. With visits from Rudolph and Dancer the reindeer dancing through the aisles, the joy never stopped. Thoughtfully done, wonderfully festive, and truly memorable. We’ll definitely be back next year!”
Sarah Atwell
3 months ago
“The Santa train (cocoa seats) was so much fun. It's far superior to Essex (less over stimulating, kids get a toy, bell, balloon animal, and everyone gets hats, hot chocolate, and a cookie). The staff were amazing and the kids actually got time with Santa. The price was cheaper for a far superior experience to Essex. It was great during the day and the scenery was fantastic, especially with the snow we got today. Can't wait to go back next year. We will probably upgrade to the Naugatuck car.”
Noah Berg
3 months ago
“Had such a great time today at the New England Rail museum! The staff were the nicest people and you can tell they loved being there. The old train station is in great shape and I REALLY LOVED the TURBO cat Calendar. No complaints I would recommend it to anyone!😊”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Railroad Museum of New England operates volunteer-run heritage trains on the historic Naugatuck Railroad out of Thomaston, CT. Car options include Sky Lounge, Premium Coach, and standard coaches. The Christmas Northern Lights sparse train is the flagship event — Santa and Mrs. Claus board and visit each child personally, as elves distribute hot chocolate, cookies, balloon animals, hats, and LEGO sets. Educational exhibits on regional railroad heritage are on display at the station year-round.
