New York State offers a range of family-friendly train rides in 2025, from scenic tours through lakes and mountains to magical holiday-themed experiences.
Whether it’s a summer afternoon ride, a fall foliage adventure, or a holiday journey to meet Santa, these train rides promise fun for kids, relaxation for adults, and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments along the way.
Detailed schedules, ticket prices, nearby attractions, historical tidbits, and booking links make planning simple and stress-free.
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Adirondack Railroad – Polar Express
The Adirondack Railroad brings the magic of the Polar Express to life with a holiday-themed journey perfect for children and adults alike.
Board the train in Saratoga Springs and travel through winter landscapes while enjoying storytelling, music, and hot chocolate.
Extra Detail: Duration is about 1.5–2 hours. Tickets range from $35–$55. Wheelchair accessible with family-friendly amenities onboard.
Pro Tip: Book early as this ride sells out quickly. Window-side seats offer the best views of snowy Adirondack scenery.
Additional Info: Departure times are 10:00 am, 12:30 pm, and 3:00 pm daily during the holiday season. Boarding station: Saratoga Springs Station. Nearby lodging includes cozy inns and B&Bs.
Historical trains from the early 1900s are used, and combo packages include hot chocolate and souvenir gifts. Recommended for children ages 3+.
Catskill Mountain Railroad – The Polar Express
Families can enjoy another classic Polar Express ride along the Catskill Mountains.
Expect festive decorations, interactive entertainment, and a visit from Santa himself at the end of the journey.
Extra Detail: Duration is 1.5 hours. Tickets are $30–$50. Stroller-friendly with onboard restrooms.
Insider Tip: Combine your ride with a hike or local dining in the Catskills for a full-day family adventure.
Additional Info: Departures are on weekends in November and December. Boarding station: Kingston–Catskill Station.
Historical steam engines enhance the ride experience. Nearby accommodations include family-friendly inns. Ages 3+ recommended. Special holiday packages and combo tickets with meals available.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat – North Pole Express
This unique ride combines a scenic train journey with a riverboat cruise.
Children can meet Santa, enjoy storytelling, and take in stunning views of the Connecticut River and surrounding forests.
Extra Detail: Duration is about 3 hours. Tickets range from $40–$60. Wheelchair accessible with onboard dining options.
Pro Tip: Morning departures are less crowded, ideal for younger children.
Additional Info: Departure from Essex Station at 9:00 am and 12:30 pm. Onboard amenities include snacks and crafts for children. Ages 3+ recommended.
Special holiday and seasonal events throughout December. Nearby lodging and dining options available. Combo packages include riverboat rides and train souvenirs.
Arcade & Attica Railroad
The Arcade & Attica Railroad offers scenic rides through Western New York, featuring themed events and family-friendly excursions.
Extra Detail: Duration is about 1–2 hours. Tickets $15–$35. Family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, with snack options onboard.
Insider Tip: Check seasonal schedules for special events like Halloween or fall foliage rides. Nearby dining and picnic spots enhance the experience.
Additional Info: Departures are Saturdays and Sundays from Arcade Station. Historical railcars used for authentic experiences. Ages 3+ recommended.
Booking links available online. Weather permitting. Combo packages include themed snacks and souvenirs.
Finger Lakes Rail Experience – Cayuga Leaf Limited
Autumn in the Finger Lakes is perfect for families, and the Cayuga Leaf Limited showcases vibrant fall foliage along lakes and vineyards.
Onboard activities keep children entertained while adults enjoy scenic views.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–2 hours. Tickets $20–$45. Wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.
Pro Tip: Schedule the ride in mid-October for peak foliage. Combine with a visit to local wineries for adults or nearby orchards for kids.
Additional Info: Departures from Ithaca Station on weekends during October. Historical trains from early 20th century. Ages 3+ recommended.
Nearby dining and lodging available. Combo packages include leaf-viewing tours and snacks. Booking recommended online.
Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum
Perfect for families interested in history, the Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum offers rides through historic routes.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–2 hours. Tickets $15–$30. Family-friendly, accessible, with picnic areas nearby.
Insider Tip: Take advantage of seasonal workshops and special themed rides for an educational yet fun experience.
Additional Info: Departures from Rochester Station on weekends. Historical locomotives and railcars used. Ages 3+ recommended.
Nearby dining and lodging options. Booking online recommended. Combo tickets include museum access and snacks.
Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway
This scenic railway features family-focused rides along beautiful landscapes, including seasonal and themed excursions.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–1.5 hours. Tickets $18–$35. Accessible and stroller-friendly.
Pro Tip: Check for special holiday or event rides to maximize fun. Nearby cafes and parks make for a great pre- or post-ride outing.
Additional Info: Departures from Saratoga Springs Station on weekends. Historical railcars used. Ages 3+ recommended.g
New York & Lake Erie Railroad
Families can enjoy a scenic journey through historic routes and rolling hills. The train features themed rides and activities designed to entertain children of all ages.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–2 hours. Tickets $15–$40. Family-friendly and accessible with onboard snacks.
Insider Tip: Book themed events early. Combine with local attractions or dining in charming small towns along the route.
Additional Info: Departures from Buffalo Station on weekends. Historical trains from the 1920s. Ages 3+ recommended. Booking links available. Combo packages include snacks and local attraction passes.
Railroad Museum of New England – Santa Express & Northern Lights Limited
The Santa Express is perfect for the holiday season, featuring festive decorations and Santa visits.
The Northern Lights Limited offers scenic rides during the winter months with family-friendly onboard entertainment.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–2 hours. Tickets $25–$50. Wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly.
Pro Tip: Morning rides are best for younger children. Nearby attractions include winter festivals and local bakeries.
Additional Info: Departures from Connecticut Station in November–December. Onboard amenities include snacks, crafts, and storytelling.
Ages 3+ recommended. Combo packages with souvenir gifts available.
Danbury Railway Museum – Owney Legacy Celebration
This historic ride celebrates the famous mail-carrying dog, Owney, with themed events and family-focused activities.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–1.5 hours. Tickets $20–$35. Family-friendly and accessible.
Insider Tip: Combine with a visit to the museum exhibits for a full educational experience. Seasonal rides feature holiday themes and crafts.
Additional Info: Departures from Danbury Station on weekends. Historical trains used. Ages 3+ recommended.
Nearby lodging and dining available. Combo packages include museum access and themed snacks.
Metro-North Railroad – Holiday Train
The Metro-North Holiday Train is a festive journey from New York City into scenic parts of the state, with onboard holiday entertainment, decorations, and activities for kids.
Extra Detail: Duration 1–2 hours. Tickets $30–$50. Family-friendly with wheelchair access and onboard snacks.
Pro Tip: Early booking is essential for holiday rides. Seats by the windows provide the best views of decorated landscapes.
Additional Info: Departures from Grand Central Terminal in December. Ages 3+ recommended.
Combo packages with hot chocolate and crafts available. Booking online recommended. Weather permitting.
Conclusion
New York’s family-friendly train rides in 2025 offer endless options for fun, education, and scenic adventure.
From holiday-themed journeys to fall foliage rides and historical explorations, there’s something for every family to enjoy.
Read More: 6 Best Scenic Train Rides in New York for Fall 2025
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