Since the Polar Express sells out in seconds our family never goes. Plus the high price! Thankfully there are several other alternatives in the Sacramento area.
Sacramento Valley Live Steamers
Where: Hagen Park
2197 Chase Dr. Rancho Cordova
(35 minutes from Elk Grove)
When: 1st and 2nd weekend in December
Details: Trains depart at the Cordova Station and take you through Hagan Park, where you will arrive at Santa’s Oasis to find Santa ready to take pictures with you. Once everyone has had an opportunity to talk to Santa, the train will make a return trip to Cordova Station. Bring your letters to Santa with a return address listed!
Purchase tickets HERE
Western Railway Museum
Where: Western Railway Museum
5848 California 12
Suisun City
(Located 1 hour from Elk Grove)
When: All Weekends in December with trains running every hour from 12pm – 5pm
Details: The museum is transformed with lights and more family fun! Enjoy a magical winter train ride, followed by an indoor lightshow in the Carhouse, where Santa Claus will be waiting to greet each child (or adult) with a festive golden bell.
Children can write their very own letter to Santa, as well as make their own handcrafted ornament in the Visitor Center.
Purchase tickets HERE
River Fox Train
Where: River Fox Train
18095 Co Rd 117, West Sacramento
(32 minutes from Elk Grove)
When: Every Weekend in December Trains run 10am, 1pm, 4pm & 7pm
Details: Tickets include a train ride in a winter wonderland, cookies, hot chocolate, a souvenir mug, and a personal visit with Santa Claus himself. Come dressed in your Christmas morning pajamas!
Purchase tickets HERE
Placerville & Sacramento Valley Railroad
Where: Station location is in the Folsom Family Fitness parking lot in front near the corner of East Bidwell and Oak Ave Parkway.
700 Oak Ave Parkway Folsom, CA.
When: Every weekend in December departing every 30 minutes
Details: A short but scenic trip in Folsom. Santa will be there with some activities and drinks.
Purchase tickets HERE
Elk Grove Families 