Updated November 2026
If you’re looking for a festive family outing that feels straight out of a storybook, a Christmas train ride is hard to beat. Historic trains, decorated trolleys, and a little holiday magic can turn a simple outing into a tradition your kids look forward to each year.
Here are three places offering Christmas train and trolley adventures within driving distance of the Sebago Lake region for the 2026 holiday season.
Dates, fares, and availability can change. Check the operator’s booking page for current information and your final ticket total, including any fees.
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Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad — The Polar Express™ Train Ride(Portland, ME)
Dates: Select dates November 20–December 28, 2026
Schedule: Afternoon and evening departures vary by date; no trains December 24–25
Location: Ocean Gateway Marine Terminal, Portland waterfront
Ride Length: Approximately 50 minutes
Tickets:
- Coach: $35 per person; $40 on premium departures
- First Class: $65 per person; $70 on premium departures
- Presidential Class: $105 per person; $110 on premium departures
- Lap children ages 2 and under: $5; advance ticket required
Details & Tickets: The Polar Express at Maine Narrow Gauge
Step aboard a decorated historic train for hot chocolate, cookies, storytelling, and a visit from Santa and his helpers. Children receive a silver sleigh bell to take home. First Class includes padded individual seating and a souvenir ceramic mug; Presidential Class adds cushioned armchairs and a signed book for each group of four or fewer.
Family tip: Earlier matinees may fit younger children’s bedtimes, but daylight departures won’t offer the same illuminated scenery. Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for parking and boarding.
Seashore Trolley Museum (Kennebunkport, ME)
The Seashore Trolley Museum offers two different holiday experiences, giving families a choice between a Santa-focused outing and a shorter ride during Christmas Prelude.
Location: 195 Log Cabin Road, Kennebunkport, ME
Santa’s Magical Trolley Ride
Dates: November 28; December 9–10, 2026
Departure Times:
- November 28: 10 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM, and 4 PM
- December 9: 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM
- December 10: 2 PM, 3 PM, and 4 PM
Tickets: $25 per person; children ages 2 and under are free
Reservations: Required
Details & Tickets: Santa’s Magical Trolley Ride
Start with storytime, then watch a decorated trolley arrive with Santa at the controls! Families enjoy a 30-minute heated trolley ride, hot chocolate, and jingle bells along the museum’s historic railway.
Afterward, explore the Maine Central Model Railroad exhibit and gather around the fire pit for s’mores, weather permitting. Pajamas are encouraged, making this a cozy option for a holiday outing with little ones.
Christmas Prelude Trolley Rides
Dates: December 4–6 and December 11–13, 2026
Museum Hours: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM; last trolley departure at 5 PM
Ride Length: Approximately 25 minutes
Tickets: $15 per person; children ages 2 and under riding on a lap are free
Details & Tickets: Christmas Prelude Trolley Rides
Ride a historic trolley decorated with holiday greenery through the museum’s wooded campus. Admission also includes hot chocolate, marshmallows to roast around the fire pit, and time to explore exhibits, the model railroad building, and the indoor craft room.
Want to see Santa? He is scheduled for photos:
- December 6: 3–5:30 PM
- December 11–13: 9:30 AM–noon and 1–5:30 PM
Planning tip: These rides take place at the museum, about three miles from downtown Kennebunkport. The trolley does not provide transportation to downtown Christmas Prelude festivities.
Conway Scenic Railroad — Santa’s Holiday Special (North Conway, NH)
Dates: Begins November 27, 2026; check the booking calendar for available dates and departure times
Location: 38 Norcross Circle, North Conway, NH
Ride Length: Approximately 60–80 minutes
Tickets:
| Seating | Adults ages 13+ | Children ages 4–12 | Ages 3 and under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coach | $27 | $21 | Free |
| Comfort Class | $39 | $26 | $16 |
| Observation Dome | $53 | $45 | $34 |
Details & Tickets: Santa’s Holiday Special
Previously listed as Santa’s Holiday Express, this seasonal outing is now advertised as Santa’s Holiday Special. Families travel along the Conway Branch aboard heritage railcars decorated for Christmas, with the railroad teasing possible appearances by Santa and his elves.
This daytime ride is an option for families who enjoy classic trains and want to build a day around exploring North Conway.
Planning tip: The railroad asks advance ticket holders to check its website at least 24 hours before departure to confirm boarding times.
Planning Your Christmas Train Adventure
- Reserve ahead. Check availability before building the rest of your day around a ride.
- Compare the full family total. Seating upgrades, ticket fees, and fares for babies or toddlers can affect your budget.
- Dress in layers. Bring coats, hats, and mittens for outdoor platforms and walks between buildings.
- Leave extra travel time. Holiday traffic, parking, and winter weather can slow your arrival.
- Check what’s included. Santa visits, refreshments, souvenirs, and museum activities vary by experience.
- Review cancellation policies. Know your options before purchasing tickets.
Want More Family-Friendly Holiday Ideas Near Sebago Lake?
Subscribe to the free Lake Region Kids Calendar newsletter for local events, seasonal guides, trails, playground spotlights, and festive outings for Maine families—delivered every Thursday morning.
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