Ride a Christmas Train Then Enjoy a Holiday Light Show for a Holly Jolly Connecticut Adventure

With the holiday season inching closer, if you’re anything like me, you’re probably already in full planning mode. Where will you spend Christmas? What fun activities can you do with the kids? How will you make the season memorable? Well, we've got just the ticket! How about a Christmas day trip in Connecticut that will fill you to the brim with holiday joy?

Luckily, there are plenty of places to celebrate the holidays in the Nutmeg State, whether you're looking for a small-town parade or a big-city shebang. We've got a fun Christmas day trip that will take you on a magical winter train ride, and then to a delightful light display. Riding the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston, Connecticut, and then seeing the twinkling Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard Park in Meriden, Connecticut, is enough to even put a smile on the Grinch's face! This year, spending Christmas in Connecticut will be an unforgettable holiday adventure full of Christmas cheer. 

The Railroad Museum of New England is one of the region's most underrated attractions. This educational spot offers plenty of informative displays about the lengthy history of trains in Connecticut, plus you can enjoy train rides throughout the year.

One of the most magical times to visit the museum is in the winter when you'll find several holiday-themed offerings on the schedule. The 90-minute Santa Express is a daytime Connecticut Christmas train that's perfect for the whole family. The train is decorated inside and out with dazzling Christmas lights, garlands, ribbons, and more. Moreover, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be aboard, which the kiddos will absolutely love! You'll be serenaded by a choir of caroling elves, and kids will receive a gift, too. Two other experiences, the Northern Lights Limited and an Autism-Friendly Santa Express, are also available.

After you've finished up your train ride, head about half an hour southeast to the city of Meriden, another place filled with holiday cheer. This is one of our favorite places to celebrate the holidays in Connecticut, thanks in large part to the Festival of Silver Lights.

The beautiful display illuminates Hubbard Park with over 350,000 twinkling lights. The shimmering Christmas trees will certainly get you in the holiday spirit. Of course, you’ll want to have your cameras ready to capture these fond holiday memories. Don’t leave without enjoying delicious Christmas cookies and a cup of hot chocolate. There is no doubt that Christmas in Connecticut will be filled with holiday cheer. This train ride and light show is the perfect gift for you and your family.  

Typically, the festivities begin on the day before Thanksgiving with the lighting ceremony, and the lights will be up for several weeks. We recommend that you check the Meriden Parks and Recreation Department Facebook page for official dates. Additionally, please note that tickets generally sell out for the Santa Express rides, so make sure to purchase them early if you're interested!

Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic and charm that Connecticut has to offer during the holiday season. From dazzling light displays to festive train rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring with family, friends, or on your own, these events are sure to leave you with lasting memories. Be sure to plan ahead, secure your tickets early, and bundle up to enjoy the crisp winter air. Start crafting your perfect holiday adventure now, and make this season unforgettable. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Connecticut trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.