The Napa Valley Wine Train may sound a little touristy, but we can assure you, cruising through scenic wine country with a glass of wine in hand is pretty luxurious. While we recommend it at any time of year, the Napa Valley holiday wine train is an especially jolly time as Santa and his friends come on board to create a memorable experience for passengers of all ages (and don’t worry, wine is still served!).
Through December, the wine train offers two hourlong trips daily to Santa’s workshop in Yountville. The journey starts at the downtown Napa train station, the start of the historic rail line built by San Francisco’s first millionaire in 1864. Get your picture taken with Santa at the station, then board one of the restored Pullman train cars, once the gold standard for luxurious rail travel. The cars that make up Napa Valley Wine Train once traversed the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and have been reimagined with historic elements that channel the spirit of train travel in the twentieth century. Cozy up into velveteen club chairs and enjoy the view of Napa Valley through the large, arched train windows.
Tickets to the Santa Train include hot cocoa and cookies as you help return some lost toys to Santa’s workshop. Santa and his friends visit the train cars to say “happy holidays” and to pose for pictures. Wine is available for the adults to purchase.
Looking for a more grown-up trip on the Wine Train? Ring in the new year right with “A Night in Paris,” a 3-1/2 hour trip on December 31st. Reservations include a decadent 4-course meal on board and a party at the station with a DJ, dancing, and of course, a midnight toast. Whichever holiday adventure you choose, the Napa Valley Wine Train is a unique way to experience wine country.
Napa Valley Holiday Wine Train | 1275 McKinstry Street, Napa | (800) 427-4124