If you’re planning a visit to Virginia City, the Virginia & Truckee Railroad is an absolute must-experience. This charming town, just a short drive from Reno, makes for the perfect day trip. I'm here so often that I practically feel like a local! Throughout the year, the railroad offers a variety of awesome event trains, including:
-Pumpkin Patch & Electric Train O' Lights (October)
-Father's Day Train (June) & Mother's Day Train (June)
-Murder Mystery Train (August)
-The Polar Express & Candy Cane Express (December)
-Gold Hill Excursions (May - October)
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Rates as of 8/2024
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Virginia City is like stepping into the "Wild Wild West." This charming little town is packed with wooden pathways, historic saloons, and that rich history that just pulls you in. I fell in love with it the first time I visited, and the railroad has always felt like the cherry on top of this already incredible place.
If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss out on all the amazing things Virginia City has to offer. From the lively cowboy culture to the unique shops and year-round attractions, including beloved annual events, there’s so much to explore. Be sure to stop by the visitor’s center to get all the info you need for your trip, including lodging, restaurants, tours, and more.
My family has taken the Candy Cane Express several times, and we’ve also loved the everyday 35-minute round-trip ride up to Gold Hill. You even have the option to hop off and explore the hotel before catching another train back to the station. Each ride is an absolute blast, with the staff going above and beyond to make everyone feel the magic—especially during the holiday season.
On the everyday rides, the friendly conductor narrates the journey, sharing the rich history of the V&T Railroad as you pass by old mines on the way to Gold Hill. Keep an eye out for the possibility of spotting wild mustangs along the route—they add an extra touch of excitement to the breathtaking views. The scenery is stunning, no matter the season.
Candy Cane Express Train
-50-minute round trip to Gold Hill with a brief stop at the "North Pole" to see Santa and his elves in action.
-During the ride, they read *'Twas the Night Before Christmas.*
-Enjoy hot cocoa or apple cider, cookies, and candy canes.
-Snap pictures with the cheerful Candy Cane Sisters.
-Santa comes out for photos at the end of the ride.
-Sing along to Christmas carols, and they even give a shout-out to December birthdays.
-The train cars and depot are beautifully decorated, and the indoor cars are heated for comfort.
-They keep things fresh by changing up the ride every year.
I absolutely LOVE the Candy Cane Express because it’s pure holiday magic. The Candy Cane Sisters are always full of cheer, and the whimsical train and depot are impossible to skip during the holidays.
*Before you head out, check AccuWeather for weather updates— 40°F with wind can feel pretty biting. Dressing the right way can be the determining factor for a good trip.
*For train rides, arriving about 15 minutes early is usually enough time to check in at the gift shop, but make sure to call ahead for train schedules since they operate seasonally.
*There’s also a longer 1.5-hour ride to Carson City if you’re up for more adventure.
*Purchase tickets in person to avoid online fees & save money
*Subscribe to Virginia City's newsletter to stay up-to-date with all the latest events and happenings. A sign-up window should pop up on their website. *Information subject to change. All opinions are my own.
