Napa is well known worldwide for its many vineyards and wineries. Just a short distance from San Francisco, it’s a popular day trip all throughout the year. While vineyards and wineries may be the typical destination in Napa, there’s another exciting way to experience wine country: the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Just as the name suggests, the wine train takes you on a scenic journey through Napa, complete with a tasting of the region’s wines. While the train is popular year-round, its seasonal events are some of the best times to experience the trips. This winter, the wine train will offer special holiday trips, including family-friendly options.
The Napa Valley Wine Train’s holiday journeys include Santa Train Jolly Journeys, which include carolers at the station, pictures with Santa, and even elves, all before boarding the train. After the station, you can choose from four different experiences on the train, starting with the Santa’s Cookie Jar, which includes hot cocoa, a fresh-baked cookie, and a visit from Santa, ideal for children. The next experience is more gourmet but still family-friendly, offering a three-course meal with a visit from Santa and pictures. You can also book a seat in the Vista Dome, perfect for taking in the scenery while enjoying dinner.
For adults, you can join the Peppermint Tea journey, which comes with teas, sparkling wine, and finger sandwiches during the 3-hour journey on the vintage train. The festive journey will also include a soup-and-salad course and holiday treats.
The holiday train trips will start after Thanksgiving and run until New Year’s Eve, where you can ring in 2026 with their Midnight in Paris celebration. The New Year’s Eve journey is 6 hours and ends at 3 pm, in time for the new year in Paris.
You can learn more about the Napa Valley Wine Train and book tickets here.