Unlocking a SoCal Christmas on the Pacific Surfliner

There is nothing like a festive SoCal vacation with so many Christmassy highlights and cool California style holiday events.

For the ultimate no-stress festive vacation, ditch the rental car and let the train take the strain.

Hop on board the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to enjoy stress-free travel, scenic views and quality time with the family.

You’ll be surprised to discover just how many top holiday events and experiences are conveniently close to Pacific Surfliner stations.

Here’s a glimpse of just a few of the festive happenings near stations:

The Holiday Plaza in Downtown SLO

Presented by the San Luis Obispo Collection

Until January 1, 2024

Mission Plaza is the centerpiece of downtown San Luis Obispo where the magic happens. Visit Santa’s House, the Classic Carousel, and an animated musical light show. Events at the Plaza include the Hanukkah Menorah Lighting Ceremony, performances from the SLO County Band and the SLO Youth Symphony, plus much more.

L.A. Zoo Lights Holiday Festival of Lights

Until Jan 7, 2024

L.A. Zoo Lights is an electric nighttime experience with glowing animals rendered in LED lights, lasers, 3-D projections, and interactive displays. (Visitors will not see any of the zoo’s animals except for reindeer.)

Julefest

Until Jan 6, 2024

Considered one of the “10 most Christmassy towns in America,” the Danish village of Solvang showcases Old World holiday traditions with shinering lights, pop-up shops, Santa’s Village, a parade, candlelight tours, and more.

Getting There: Book a Pacific Surfliner trip to Solvang (SLV). Riders connect to an Amtrak Thruway bus at the Santa Barbara Station for a 50-minute ride to downtown Solvang.

Knotts Merry Farm

Until Jan 7, 2024

Theme park Knotts Berry Farm transforms into a classic holiday festival with winter wonderland-inspired décor, shows like “Home for the Holidays”, an ice show featuring the Peanuts characters, plus a host of magical Christmas activities for families. See Santa’s Christmas Cabin, a nightly tree lighting ceremony, a Christmas light show throughout Camp Snoopy, and tasty holiday-themed snacks.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Presents “Holidays Made Here”

Dec 20, 2023 – Jan 1, 2023 (Closed December 25)

Enjoy a special holiday feature of the iconic Hollywood film & TV set tour, centered around Warner Bros.’ “Midwest Street Backlot.” Experience the winter town of Gilmore Girls’ Stars Hollow, Connecticut, decked out for the holiday season. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from Gremlins, Elf, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and many other holiday fan favorites. Friends fans will notice the Central Perk Café decorated for the holidays.

There are many more top holiday events and destinations to discover in Southern California and a trip on the Pacific Surfliner is the smart wat to see it all.

Learn more with trip planning, booking, and money saving tips on a holiday season rail itinerary across SoCal.