It’s that time of year again, when twinkling lights and decorations transform the cityscape, and holiday wish lists are compiled. It’s the thought, not the size, that matters most when it comes to showing a loved one you care— which makes shopping along the Capitol Corridor the perfect choice for finding gifts that may be on the smaller side, but definitely show your big heart.
To make your holiday shopping a breeze, we’ve put together our top 10 must-haves within walking distance of Capitol Corridor stations, plus a couple of bonus gifts for train fans young and old. These festive picks, arranged from north to south, will have you putting a ribbon on fun, fashionable, and functional presents for each person on your mind and in your heart.
California State Railroad Museum: Polar Express Wooden Train
Sacramento Station | Walk to 125 I St., Sacramento
This adorable wooden train will warm the hearts of grandparents and grandkids alike. Support the nonprofit California State Railroad Museum when you purchase the Polar Express Wooden Train three-piece set. Connected by magnetic couplers, the colorful individual cars can be mixed and matched to your liking while retaining their classic appeal. ($34.99)
Soccer & Lifestyle: Soccer Jersey
Davis Station | Walk to 517 2nd St., Davis
Just because the 2018 FIFA Soccer World Cup is over doesn’t mean fútbol fever has died down. It’s the most popular sport in the world, and Soccer & Lifestyle is a premier hub for soccer gear in the Bay Area. Your sports enthusiast will be impressed with your taste in gifts when they unwrap a top-notch soccer jersey from their favorite team. (cost varies)
Function & Fringe: Adventure Tote
Martinez Station | Walk to 828 Main St., Martinez
The name of this Martinez shop embodies the Adventure Tote it sells: utility meets aesthetic in this simple yet striking canvas bag with a pocket. Sling it over your shoulder for a farmers’ market outing, afternoon picnic, or as a daily work purse; this washable black cotton fits almost any setting and purpose. ($20)
The Gardener: Bold Dry Garden
Berkeley Station | Walk to 1836 Fourth St., Berkeley
Whether a veteran green thumb or an aspiring gardener, we can all stand to learn more about drought-tolerant plants and landscape design from the 2.5-acre Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery located in the East Bay City of Walnut Creek. Bold Dry Garden is a beautiful and informative book showcasing Ruth Bancroft Garden’s stunning approach that utilizes succulents and other water-efficient plants for responsible gardening in the drought-prone state of California. ($35)
Design Within Reach: Formwork Media Stand
Berkeley Station | Walk to 1770 Fourth St., Berkeley
Traveling tech-lovers will appreciate the sleek design of this handy ergonomic stand for their favorite touchscreen. With smaller, portable iThings and tablets replacing desktop computers, this Formwork Media Stand from Berkeley’s Design Within Reach provides convenient, portable mounting to make it feel like you’ve got a desk wherever you go. ($55)
Oui! Oui! Macaron: Box of 12 Assortment
Emeryville Station | Walk to 5959 Shellmound St., Emeryville
Located in the Emeryville Public Market, Oui! Oui! Macaron’s distinctive pale blue stand speaks to all the yummy pastel goodness it provides. Twelve assorted macarons in varied vibrant colors, sprinkles, and buttery flavors light up the simple box packaging to make a cute, delicious present for your favorite sweet tooth. ($25)
Minimo: Bottle of Wine
Jack London Square Station | Walk to 420 3rd St., Oakland
Minimo is Jack London Square’s friendly local wine shop and tasting room that celebrates small production and sustainably-sourced pours. Make sure your loved one’s glass is always half full with the help of an independent label off the shelf of this green-conscious, ultra-hip venue. (cost varies)
Oakland Supply Co.: Oaklandish Nalgene Bottle
Jack London Square Station | Walk to 427 Water St., Oakland
Oakland Supply Co. (also known as Oaklandish) is a signature East Bay must—the name says it all. Locals and tourists alike can appreciate a staple Oaklandish Nalgene Bottle in your choice of striking color arrangements. Practical for everything from outdoor adventuring to the daily commute, this water bottle is the perfect on-the-go accessory for your gift recipient. ($18)
Game Kastle: A Game of Thrones Card Game
Santa Clara Station | Walk to 1350 Coleman Ave., Santa Clara
Winter is coming. And while we’re all waiting for the final season to air next year, this new card game will satiate the fandom of the epic Game of Thrones series. Live your role in the captivating drama that puts queens, kings, dragons, and armies face to face. At the end of the Game, will the Iron Throne belong to you, or one of your cunning competitors? ($14.95)
La Dolce Velo Bike Shop: Planet Bike Spok Light Set
San Jose-Diridon Station | Walk to 1280 The Alameda, San Jose
Whether your gift recipient is an avid cyclist or a weekend cruiser, everyone needs a good pair of protective lights. Pick up a set for your two-wheeling friend at La Dolce Velo bike shop. The Planet Bike Spok Light Set is ultra-convenient with compact pocket-sizing, 100 hours of running time, and rubber mounting straps to put on your bike or outerwear. Your favorite bicyclist will thank you for the new bling— and for keeping them safe as they ride! ($23.99)
Amtrak Gift Card
Don’t spot a gift on our list that speaks to you? An Amtrak gift card is sure to warm the heart of any loved one who enjoys a good adventure while getting to and from their destinations in style and comfort. (cost varies)
CAPPY the train
Kids of all ages love our plush Cappy the Train! Cappy can be purchased on any of our trains in the Café Car. ($10)