Get on Board!

With people staying closer to home and avoiding crowded, indoor spaces, online shopping will be bigger than ever this holiday season. Need a little help finding that perfect something for that favorite someone? Look no further, as we’ve compiled a handy list of holiday gift-giving resources featuring businesses within the communities we serve.

For Rail Enthusiasts:
Capitol Corridor fans won’t want to miss our new online store, Railgoods.com, where you’ll find a fun assortment of Capitol Corridor merch, including socks, stickers, face masks, and our new co-mascot plush toy, Cori! At the California State Railroad Museum store, pick up toy trains for the kids, railway souvenirs, books about railroad history, and more.

For Theatre Buffs:
Arts organizations have been devastated by the economic fallout of the pandemic, so we hope you’ll consider supporting your favorite theatre this holiday season. Our partners at BroadwaySF are making it easy for you to share your love of theatre with a gift card that can be redeemed now and used later towards a 2021-2022 season membership or tickets to a future show at the Orpheum or Golden Gate theatres in San Francisco.

For Aspiring Scientists:
If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the past year, it’s the importance of science! For unique gifts that will fuel curiosity and open paths to exploration, check out the Exploratorium’s holiday gift guide, where every purchase helps support the Exploratorium’s mission of transforming learning worldwide.

For Art Lovers:
If the museum-goer in your life is missing her favorite artists and exhibits, consider gifting an exhibit souvenir, unique piece of jewelry, or membership for future visits. We have amazing museums all along our route and these four are sure to please: The Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento, SFMOMA in San Francisco, Oakland Museum of CA, and the San Jose Museum of Art.

For the Little Ones:
The world-renowned Oakland Zoo is always a hit with the little ones. This year, with in-person visits hard to make, you can bring some animal-inspired fun to your kids, while supporting the zoo during this challenging time. Check out their comprehensive gift guides or consider the gift of membership, which includes discounted tickets to special events, including the festive, Glowfari, open select nights through January 17, 2021. (Due to stay-at-home orders effective December 6, 2020, Glowfari, is closed through January 4, but could open later, so keep it in mind for later in January.)

For Anyone:
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Our friends at Visit Oakland may have a solution. They have created not one, but NINE, “Oakland Grown” holiday shopping guides! From Black-owned businesses and Rockridge District stores, to gifts for bakers, artists, and eco-warriors, you’re bound to discover just what you need. There are also great finds on Visit California’s guide showcasing Black-owned businesses across the state.