Take Capitol Corridor to your favorite holiday destinations and activities! From hitting the slopes to tree lightings, thereās plenty of festive things to do along the route.
As you get in the holiday spirit, give back to the community! From November 24 to December 17, drop off non-perishable food items at Oakland Jack London or Emeryville stations to help those in need. Review the listed food banks and volunteering opportunities here.
Holiday Destinations a Connection Away
Photo Courtesy of Visit Truckee-Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe ā Heavenly Village (from Sacramento Station)
Experience a true winter wonderland in South Lake Tahoe. Heavenly Village offers ski-in/ski-out access, a range of hotels, and convenient ski rentals- all in one place! Families can enjoy snowtubing and snowmobiling right near the CaliforniaāNevada border. With the snow-covered mountains as a backdrop, itās a picturesque spot for both adventure and relaxation during ski season. Take advantage of Lake Link, a FREE and on-demand shuttle which takes you to South Shore area, trails, entertainment, and nightlife.
*Connecting bus service between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe runs once a day. See schedule here.
Truckee (From Sacramento Station)
Truckee is another a charming and festive destination for the holidays. Stroll through Truckeeās historic downtown, where twinkling lights, boutique shops, and festive events create a magical winter atmosphere. Take the Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) HWY 267 bus to the Northstar Resort, where you can hit the slopes, ice skate, shop, and enjoy making sāmores around the fire pits.
*Connecting bus service between Sacramento and Truckee runs twice a day. See schedule here.
Napa (From Martinez Station)
Hop on theĀ Napa Valley Holiday Wine TrainĀ through the vineyards, where passengers can savor a gourmet meal while surrounded by breathtaking views of the valley. The Merry Meritage celebration adds fun for all ages, featuring a skating rink, cozy igloos, and fire pits perfect for a winter night out.
*Connecting bus service between Martinez and Napa runs twice a day. See schedule here.
San Francisco (From Emeryville/Richmond Station)
San Francisco is the place to be during the holidays in Northern California! Union Square sparkles with its giant Christmas tree and ice rink, along with new and exciting stores like Nintendo, Dandelion Chocolate, and Pop Mart! Hop on a cable car to take in the cityās decorations and enjoy a quintessential San Francisco holiday experience. Along the route, stop by the Westin St. Francis Hotel for the 12 feet tall Sugar Castle, the Fairmont Hotel for its life-sized gingerbread house, and end the day at Fishermenās Wharf. Stop by Ghirardelli Square for a warm cup of hot chocolate.
*Every train connects to a bus service to/from San Francisco. Or take Capitol Corridor to Richmond station, and transfer to BART (Red Line) towards San Francisco.
Along the Route
Photo Courtesy of California State Railroad Museum; Photo by Kelly Huston
Sacramento
Californiaās capital city transforms for the holidays with plenty to explore. Families can ride the Polar Express train (sells out fast!), glide across the downtown ice rink, and start holiday shopping at Downtown Commons or Midtown. Take a short rideshare to Imaginariumās Holiday Lights display at the Cal Expo/California State Fair- Californiaās largest holiday light festival featuring interactive experiences, carnival rides, an ice rink, and more!
Martinez
This historic downtown transforms into a festive wonderland, with decorated storefront and cheerful community events like the annual Holiday Frolic and tree lighting ceremony. Stroll along Main Street to enjoy cozy cafƩs, unique local shops, and classic small-town charm. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Martinez Museum, an 1890 Victorian cottage that feature exhibits on local history, including artifacts, documents, and photographs.
Berkeley
Fourth Street Berkeley becomes a holiday shopping destination with boutique shopping, festive decorations, and a lively tree lighting celebration. Itās a great place to enjoy local dining and artisan goods while soaking in a community-focused atmosphere. Take a short bus ride (AC Transit 51B) to the Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair every weekend in December.
Oakland Jack London
Celebrate the season in the heart of the East Bay with ice skating and other downtown holiday festivities. Oaklandās vibrant arts scene and cultural diversity make it a unique stop for winter fun and celebrations. Enjoy Oaklandās Joy to the Town during the first weekend of December, featuring a holiday market at Jack London Square, tree lighting, and bar hopping in Downtown.
Emeryville
Emeryvilleās Bay Street offers convenient shopping, dining, and a festive atmosphere for holiday gift hunting. On Saturdays and Sundays, November 29 ā December 24, Bay Street will also host a festive outdoor market featuring handmade crafts, unique gifts, specialty food items from local businesses. Enjoy live music, community performances, kidsā activities, and photo opportunities!
San Jose
Walk through an enchanted forest of decorated trees, 40 animated displays including the famous Lima Train, and step inside a 50-foot Christmas tree at the Downtown Park Experience. Enjoy free photos with Santa, nightly entertainment, and holiday refreshments. Take a short rideshare to start your holiday shopping to Santana Row and Westfield Valley Fair.
