Christmas Train at the Irvine Park Railroad

Last week, Big B and I spent an afternoon at Irvine Park Railroad for Mama and Me time. It was our special date, just the two of us. We got there in the late afternoon before the sun set and stayed until dark, enjoying Santa's Village and the Christmas Train.

We started with the activities since the Christmas Train didn't start until 5 PM. All activities open one hour before the first Christmas Train leaves the depot. Big B played games, decorated a cookie, took pictures, and pretty much just ran around the entire place. I have to say that the cookie was delicious. I kept sneaking little bites here and there. Most activities require a ticket, which you can purchase in person or online.

Activities at Irvine Park Railroad

• Cookie decorating
• Carnival games
• Storytime by Mrs. Claus
• Photo opps
• Santa's bounce house

Big B and I rode the Christmas Train to see Santa for our last activity. Irvine Park Railroad really knows how to deck the park. The ride to the "North Pole" was lit with hundreds of twinkle lights and decorated with Christmas inflatables. I especially liked the tunnel. The multi-colored Christmas lights made the tunnel glow from the inside. It's definitely a site to see and experience.

Christmas Train and activity schedule

12/14, 5 - 8 PM 
12/15 - 16, 2 - 9 PM 
12/17 - 21, 4 - 9 PM
12/22 - 23, 2 - 9 PM

Things to consider before going to the park. Parking is free after 5 PM. Reserve tickets for the Christmas Train online or in person as it sells out quickly. The temperature drops dramatically after the sun sets so wear warm clothes. You might want to bring glow sticks for the little kids to keep them visible, especially since the parking lot is not lit. I don't recall seing a changing table for diaper changes, so you may have to change the baby in the car.

A little about Irvine Park Railroad

Irvine Park Railroad is nestled inside historic Irvine Regional Park. In addition to the 1/3 scale train, there are plenty of rides and attractions for the entire family, from pony rides, to bike and paddle boat rentals, to the OC Zoo. Guests can enjoy seasonal events throughout the year such as the Pumpkin Patch, Christmas Train, and Easter Eggstravaganza. Visitors can also host parties and school field trips at the park. Coupons for a variety of activities are offered online.

Connect with Irvine Park Railroad on Facebook and Twitter.

Disclosure: We were invited to attend the event to facilitate the review. No other form of compensation was provided. All opinions expressed are my own.