Here Comes Santa... The Santa Express Train!
What’s not to love about the Santa Express? The folks at Cape May Seashore Lines have managed to combine two things that fascinate children and adults alike: an actual, real locomotive and Santa Claus. The Santa Express is a very special excursion of the Cape May Seashore Lines. If you aren’t familiar with the line, you should be because it’s one of South Jersey’s best-kept secrets.
It’s based just 15 minutes away from Seven Mile Beach in historic Tuckahoe. The tracks are located on a portion of the historic original Reading Railway right of way that brought some of the first visitors and wave of development to Avalon and Stone Harbor. Today, lovingly restored, you’ll take a trip back in time when you climb aboard an actual rail coach for the 75-minute round trip from Tuckahoe to Richland on a train pulled by an actual diesel engine. Upon arrival at the station (where you will find lots of convenient parking), the station and the waiting locomotive will instantly remind you of a scene from a holiday card. Only this one is for real!
The Santa Express celebrates its 27th anniversary this holiday season. With nearly three decades under its belt, it’s obvious that it must have something very special. Trips are scheduled every Saturday and Sunday for families from Thanksgiving through Christmas. There are even special Friday evening Santa Starlight Express departures that include cars reserved especially for adults to relax and enjoy the special holiday experience.
A mother whose children experienced the Santa Express last holiday season told the Seven Mile Times, “Our kids had the best time. The experience of riding on a real train … and then add in time spent with Santa. It was magical. Especially at this time of year.”
Children are instantly fascinated when the big diesel engine chugs out of the station and roars through the wooded expanses of Cape May County. On board, passengers are treated to hot chocolate and special treats while Santa and his friends make their rounds and personally visit each child on the train.
To purchase tickets, check schedules or learn even more, go to seashorelines.org or call 856-263-2675. The Cape May Seashore Lines are also available for charter events and birthday parties. All aboard now … for an experience that your family won’t soon forget.