Experience the magic of winter in Lincoln, NH, aboard the Santa Express- Premier Class. This festive train ride offers scenic views, cozy charm, and a unique holiday adventure for all ages.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Wildlife
History
Lincoln has a rich railroad heritage tied to the logging industry that helped shape the region in the 19th century.
Conservation
Operators focus on minimizing environmental impact by maintaining historic equipment and promoting seasonal trail etiquette.
Granite State Railway
Granite State Railway, based in Lincoln, New Hampshire, operates scenic and themed rail experiences throughout New Hampshire's Lakes Region. The company offers a diverse roster of excursions that highlight the shorelines and vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee with convenient boarding at Meredith, Weirs Beach, and Laconia.
Trips include short 45-minute leaf-peeper rides and longer coach and first-class excursions such as the Two-Hour Meredith Excursion and the One-Hour Weirs Beach Excursion. Seasonal specials include the Fall Foliage Special Train — a 4-hour coach journey that travels past Ashland Summit and local farms and includes a hot buffet lunch stop at the Common Man Inn & Spa. Family-focused offerings include the Pumpkin Express and Wicked Witch Express, while holiday programming features multiple Santa Express seating classes (Coach, First Class, Premier).
Dining experiences are a hallmark of the lineup: the Pumpkin Express Turkey Dinner and the Meredith Turkey Dinner Train serve full carved turkey dinners on board, with the Pumpkin Express Turkey Dinner scheduled for October 24th. Adventure options extend beyond traditional railcars with a Scenic Rail Bike Excursion — a custom four-person rail bike five-mile round-trip departing from the historic Laconia Station along Lake Winnisquam.
Granite State Railway emphasizes clear schedules, varied seating classes, seasonal programming, and family-friendly events. The combination of lakeside scenery, themed trains, and distinct ride options appeals to sightseers, families, and visitors seeking holiday and culinary train experiences in New Hampshire.
Service Area
Lakes Region, NH
Boarding in Meredith, Weirs Beach, Laconia
Trip Lengths
45 min–4 hrs
Short excursions to full-day specials
Seating Classes
Coach • First • Premier
Multiple options for every guest
Unique Experiences
Rail Bikes & Holiday Trains
5-mile rail bike round-trip from Laconia
Choose dates, seating class, and themed rides — book Pumpkin Express, Santa Express, rail bikes, and fall foliage trains now.
Dress warmly in layers
Temperatures can drop significantly on the train, so layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the ride.
Arrive early for check-in
Arriving at least 15 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding process at 64 Railroad Street.
Bring a camera
Capture the snow-covered landscapes and festive decorations inside the train car for lasting memories.
Reserve tickets in advance
The Santa Express is popular during the holiday season, so booking early guarantees your seat on this premier experience.
Warm winter coat
Keeps you protected from cold temperatures during this outdoor train ride.
winter
Gloves and hat
Essential for staying warm while waiting to board or exploring the station area.
winter
Camera or smartphone
Ideal for capturing festive scenes along the route and inside the train.
Comfortable winter boots
Provides traction and warmth when boarding and disembarking in snowy conditions.
winter