Experience the Magic of The Carolina Christmas Train: A Festive Family Journey in Pinehurst, NC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
50 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
Overview
Step aboard the Carolina Christmas Train in Pinehurst, NC, for a cozy 50-minute journey filled with twinkling lights, hot chocolate, and Santa visits. This family-friendly holiday adventure is perfect for creating lasting festive memories.
The Carolina Christmas Train - Family Class: DOUBLE DINERS
50 minutes • All Ages Welcome • Great for Kids and Family Outings!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a nostalgic 50-minute train journey through North Carolina, filled with twinkling lights and festive music. Enjoy cozy seating in historic passenger cars, sip hot chocolate, and savor cookies as Santa visits. This unique experience combines holiday cheer with stunning views, making it a memorable outing for families.
Duration
50 Minutes
Location
100 Russell Drive, Star, NC 27356
All Aboard!
Join us on a magical journey of twinkling lights, festive music and the warm glow of holiday cheer! Our historic passenger cars are a beauty in themselves with cozy seating and will give you a feeling of nostalgia as we wind our way through the heart of North Carolina. Sit back, relax and sing Christmas carols as Santa makes his way to visit you and your family.
The Double Diners are single level cars with tables and chairs for two or four guests.
Included in each ticket purchase is a souvenir cup with hot chocolate and a cookie.
- Please note that we cannot guarantee that cookies are produced in a nut free facility. If you have allergies, please let your attendant know.
Important: Please be advised that at least (1) Adult ticket must be selected prior to selecting a Child ticket.
P.S.
Please be mindful of your seat selection, as we are not able to modify reservations. Currently, we do not have any ADA accessible cars.
PURCHASES ARE ONLINE ONLY
The Double Diner Cars:
The Double Diners 300 & 301
The Double Diners were built in 1954 by the Budd Company to run on the Pennsylvania Railroad’s premier Congressional Train. This route traveled from Washington DC to New York City. One dining car features a full chef’s kitchen with a small exclusive dining area in the back, while the other car is a semi-permanently coupled full length dining car. Together, the two dining cars can seat 84 passengers.
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The Summit View Cars:
The Summit View was built in 1954 for the Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. The Summit View was added to the fleet of San Francisco Chief and the El Capitan offering luxury accommodations for passengers. This full-length dome car is one of the original Pennsylvanian Diners that ran on the Congressional between NYC and DC. The railcar features seating for 20 on the lower level and a full kitchen. There is seating for 66 upstairs in the dome, with a 360* view for every passenger.
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Adventure Tips
Book Tickets Early
The Carolina Christmas Train is popular during the holiday season; reserving in advance ensures your preferred seating.
Dress Warmly
Car interiors can be cool in winter, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Give yourself time to find parking and get seated without rushing before departure.
Bring a Camera
Capture the festive decorations inside the train cars and winter landscapes through the windows.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer often spotted in nearby woodlands.
- Various winter songbirds like cardinals and chickadees brighten the scenery.
History
The Carolina Christmas Train runs on historic rail lines integral to North Carolina’s development in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Conservation
The event promotes sustainable tourism by maintaining low-impact operations and encouraging local community engagement in natural preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Pinehurst
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layers
Stay comfortable inside the train during chilly winter rides.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture photos of festive lights and Santa encounters.
winter specific
Hand Sanitizer
Maintain hygiene during the busy holiday season on board.
Small Backpack or Bag
Keep your essentials handy without bulky luggage.