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Board the rare Budd Rail Diesel Car for a 45-minute festive journey on the Sergeant Santa Express in Portsmouth, RI. Experience holiday magic and railroad history in one memorable ride.
Board the rare Budd Rail Diesel Car for a 45-minute festive journey on the Sergeant Santa Express in Portsmouth, RI. Experience holiday magic and railroad history in one memorable ride.
Book with Old Dominion Chapter, National Railway Historical Society
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Old Dominion Chapter, National Railway Historical Society · Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Step into a festive time capsule aboard the Sergeant Santa Express, a unique holiday experience rolling through Portsmouth, Rhode Island. This 45-minute journey aboard a rare vintage Budd Rail Diesel Car BC-30 offers more than just a ride — it’s a spirited adventure that brings Christmas cheer to life along the scenic Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad. Located just outside the coastal city of Portsmouth, this seasonal outing invites travelers and locals alike to celebrate the holidays with nostalgia and joy.
The train departs from 1 Alexander Road, a fitting setting that sets the tone for a memorable trip back in time. From the moment you board, plush coach seats invite you to settle in and soak up the charm of an authentically preserved historic railcar. The BC-30 is an uncommon find and beloved piece of rail history, whose smooth ride carries passengers through the wintry landscapes surrounding Portsmouth. As you roll along, the festive atmosphere is alive with the promise of holiday stories and seasonal magic, all personified by the jolly presence of Sergeant Santa himself.
What makes the Sergeant Santa Express truly stand out amidst Rhode Island’s holiday offerings is its rare combination of heritage rail travel and immersive festive fun. While many seasonal events focus on static displays or crowded markets, this express train delivers charm directly to guests on iron rails, creating intimate memories made in motion. It taps into the region’s rich railroad legacy, tracing lines that have historically linked coastal communities and brought commerce and joy. For families, couples, and holiday enthusiasts, it’s an accessible escape to simpler times and seasonal celebration.
Portsmouth and the surrounding Narragansett Bay area provide a picturesque backdrop year-round, but winter cloaks the region in quiet, crisp beauty that enhances the experience. The surrounding woodlands, frozen marshes, and glimpses of coastal waters blend into a tranquil winterscape glimpsed through the train’s panoramic windows. Guests can look forward to a cozy reprieve from the cold with festive stories, warm smiles, and the unmistakable hum of a vintage diesel engine.
Whether you’re seeking a charming group outing, an enchanting storytime moment for children, or a nostalgic nod to American railroad heritage during the holidays, the Sergeant Santa Express delivers a singular, joyful experience. Book your journey and make this season unforgettable aboard one of the country’s most unique vintage Christmas trains.
Yes, it is a family-friendly ride designed to delight guests of all ages with festive stories and a cozy environment.
Boarding is at 1 Alexander Road, Portsmouth, Rhode Island; please arrive early to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The train is non-accessible, so those requiring mobility assistance should consider this before booking.
The journey lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a brief but immersive holiday experience.
Food and drinks are generally not included or advised, so plan accordingly before your ride.
Yes, there is parking available at or near 1 Alexander Road for guests driving to the train.
Old Dominion Chapter, National Railway Historical Society is a Richmond, Virginia-based chapter of the National Railway Historical Society featured on The Adventure Collective. The chapter operates the Richmond Railroad Museum and organizes seasonal excursions, offering visitors direct access to historic railroad equipment and model railroading displays. The Richmond Railroad Museum General Admission provides all-day access to climb into a real tank engine, explore an authentic caboose, and marvel at the largest model railroad layout in the area. The museum also offers a train simulator that lets guests experience driving a virtual train. These hands-on exhibits make railroad history tangible for families, hobbyists, students, and visitors interested in transportation heritage. Seasonal programming includes the Sergeant Santa Express 2024, a holiday train ride that features Sergeant Santa on board. The Sergeant Santa Express is listed as a special event offering and the trip summary references travel through Portsmouth, RI as part of the 2024 experience. This seasonal ride is presented separately from the museum’s standard admission offering and emphasizes festive, family-oriented experiences. As a named chapter of the National Railway Historical Society, the Old Dominion Chapter offers museum-style exhibits and event-based train excursions described on their experience listings. Visitors seeking up-to-date hours, simulator availability, and specific event details should consult the chapter’s published schedules and ticket information before planning a visit.
Book with Old Dominion Chapter, National Railway Historical Society