All aboard for a festive holiday favorite! Families can enjoy classic Santa train rides through Northern Virginia and Maryland or share a merry brunch with Santa at some of the region’s most charming venues. These experiences blend tradition, excitement, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Goodhart Tip: Reservations open early — set a reminder to book in early November.

Santa Train Rides — Manassas (Virginia Railway Express)

9431 West Street, Manassas, VA 20110
When: December 13, 2025 — departures at 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM
Tickets & Info →

The VRE Santa Train is a beloved local tradition where kids meet Santa onboard and enjoy a festive rail ride from Manassas. The event supports Marine Corps Toys for Tots, so you’re encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy.

Goodhart Tip: Choose one of the earliest departures for younger children to avoid afternoon fatigue.

Brunch with Santa — The Maryland Zoo, Baltimore

1876 Mansion House, Baltimore, MD 21217
When: Dec 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2025 — 11:30 AM–1:00 PM
Tickets →

This holiday brunch at the Zoo includes a buffet, full day zoo admission, crafts for children, and a photo with Santa.

Goodhart Tip: Parking can fill fast—plan to arrive early to reduce stress.

Brunch with Santa — Estuary at The Conrad Washington, DC

1050 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007
When: Dec 7 & Dec 14, 2025 — 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Reserve →

This refined brunch experience features a holiday jazz trio, story time with Santa & Mrs. Claus, and a luxurious menu including stuffed French toast and a pastry basket.

Goodhart Tip: Request a window-side table if you’d like a view of the Potomac or cityscape.

Holiday Brunch & Santa Visit — The Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.

1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
When: Sunday, December 7, 2025 — 10:00 AM-12:30 PM
Details →

This iconic hotel hosts a lavish holiday brunch where kids can decorate cookies and meet Santa in the grand ballroom.

Goodhart Tip: Dress festive—this event features photo-friendly décor and is great for creating a memory.

Santa Train Rides — B&O Railroad Museum (Polar Express), Baltimore

901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
When: Dates TBA (typically late Nov–Dec; multiple departures)
Tickets →
A classic Polar Express–style ride departing from the historic roundhouse, with hot cocoa, cookies, and photos with Santa.

Goodhart Tip: Seats sell out fast — join the museum’s email list to get the on-sale alert.

Santa Trains — Walkersville Southern Railroad, Frederick

34 W Pennsylvania Ave, Walkersville, MD 21793
When: Dates TBA (early–mid Dec; weekends)
Tickets →
A nostalgic, family-friendly ride through Frederick County with onboard visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Goodhart Tip: Book the earliest Saturday slot for the smoothest parking and shortest lines.

North Pole Express — Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, Cumberland

13 Canal St, Cumberland, MD 21502
When: Dates TBA (late Nov–Dec)
Tickets →
A scenic mountain run with cocoa, carols, and Santa — worth the day trip for train-obsessed kids.

Goodhart Tip: Spring for Club/First Class if you want guaranteed table seating.

Breakfast with Santa — Gaylord National, National Harbor

201 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
When: Dates TBA (select weekends in Dec)
Reserve →
Over-the-top holiday décor plus meet-and-greet with Santa; easy to pair with ICE! and the atrium light show.

Goodhart Tip: Park once and make a day of it — carousel, Ferris wheel, and waterfront photos.

Brunch with Santa — Salamander Washington DC

1330 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
When: Dates TBA (Sundays in Dec)
Reserve →
Elegant buffet with kids’ treats and Santa photos in a festive ballroom setting.

Goodhart Tip: Ask for a time near the start of a seating for the best buffet selection.

Holiday Teddy Bear Tea / Santa Tea — The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City

1250 S Hayes St, Arlington, VA 22202
When: Dates TBA (late Nov–Dec)
Details →
A beloved family tea with Santa visits and keepsake bears for little ones.

Goodhart Tip: Bring a new stuffed animal to donate — it’s part of the tradition and a great teachable moment.

Holiday Brunch with Santa — Omni Shoreham Hotel

2500 Calvert St NW, Washington, DC 20008
When: Dates TBA (mid–Dec)
Reserve →
Classic DC hotel brunch with cookie decorating and a Santa visit amid grand holiday décor.

Goodhart Tip: Walk over to the National Zoo lights afterward if timing lines up.

Pro Tips for Booking

• Set calendar alerts for early November to catch when tickets open.
  
• Choose earlier time slots or weekend mornings for younger children.
  
• Confirm perishables (child gifts, crafts) when you book.
  
• Bring a compact camera or phone; many venues feature holiday backdrops.
  

Goodhart Tip: Make your outing into a tradition—book now, then mark the date on your calendar so it becomes part of your holiday rhythm.

Explore More Holiday Cheer

Discover even more festive fun around the region:

The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Activities in Washington, DC →

• Best Holiday Teas in DC
• Best Ice-Skating Rinks Around DC
• Best Holiday Theatre & Performances in DC
• Hanukkah Celebrations Around DC
• The 10 Most Festive Christmas Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Thinking About Making a Move This Holiday Season?

The Goodhart Group has helped DC-area families buy and sell homes for over 30 years. Whether you’re planning for the new year or just exploring options, we’re here to help you find your perfect home.

Get in touch by filling out the form below or reaching out by phone or email.

Sue Goodhart | sue@thegoodhartgroup.com | 703-362-3221

Allison Goodhart DuShuttle | allison@thegoodhartgroup.com | 703-266-7277

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