Okay, we’re aware it’s not even October yet...but it is time to think ahead to the holidays to snag those ever-so-limited tickets you and your family crave! We’re talking of the Naugatuck Railroad holiday excursions in Thomaston, CT, run by the Railroad Museum of New England—or whatever the special holiday ride is in your town. Tickets are now on sale for the Naugatuck Railroad’s Santa Express, its autism-friendly Santa Express, and the Northern Lights Limited.
This year, the railroad has a special offering. Two famous New York Central railroad cars are coming to Connecticut—Hickory Creek, the observation car that once capped the opulent 20th Century Limited, and the stainless steel Tavern-Lounge No. 43. Both are on loan from The United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey.
The Santa Express starts November 24 and runs through December 23, with afternoon rides on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, at noon and 2:15pm Santa Claus will be on board, along with elves. Kids receive a special gift from Santa’s toy bag.
Kids can also take an autism-friendly version of the Santa Express, offered by Sun, Moon & Stars, Inc. in partnership with the museum, on November 26 at noon and 2:15pm. This judgment-free ride is geared towards riders with sensory considerations. The volume of holiday music will be lowered, and the bell each child receives will be handed out at the end of the trip so they won’t be rung throughout the 90-minute trip (welcome respite for all involved!) The more relaxing excursion still has Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their Elves walking through the train to visit with each child. And caregivers are welcome to bring items to keep children occupied.
Finally, Northern Lights Limited starts operating on November 24 and goes through December 23. This evening train runs Wednesdays through Sundays (and all week, December 17–23) at 5 and 7:15pm, taking riders to Santa's Workshop. A nighttime train ride is really a memorable thing for all ages! Lights inside and outside of each train car are lit, enveloping the train in a beautiful glow. Santa visits each rider on the train while elves dance and sing along to the music, and each child receives a special gift from Santa's toy bag.
Tickets for all rides can be purchased here.