Sponsored Content

đźš‚ Hop on this family-friendly holiday tradition

Visit the Best Friend Train Museum for a celebration with Santa, free photos, and a chance to give back this holiday season.

Sponsored by
A GIF of The Charleston Santa at the Best Friend Train Museum.

Don’t forget to pick up your photos before leaving the Charleston Visitor Center.

Photos provided by Explore Charleston

Table of Contents

All aboard, Charleston. This holiday season, get ready to meet The Charleston Santa at the Best Friend Train Museum — aka, home to America’s first locomotive, which began service on Christmas Day in 1830.

Beginning Friday, Nov. 29, children of all ages are invited to visit Santa at the museum every weekend leading up to Christmas. Psst... It’s conveniently located downtown between the Visitor Center and the Children’s Museum.

During the event by Explore Charleston and the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, families will receive a free photo to commemorate the occasion. Plus, there will be plenty of festive fun and opportunities to learn about the train’s history. Spots are limited, so be sure to snag your free, timed ticket online.

Want to give back this season?

Everyone can get into the holiday spirit by bringing new, unwrapped toys to help Explore Charleston + the Children’s Museum fill up the train and support Toys for Tots. Last year, more than 700 toys were collected, and this year, the goal is 1,000 toys.

More holiday highlights

  • Holiday pop-up shop | The Children’s Museum is setting up a special toy store at the Best Friend Train Museum, with proceeds directly benefiting local families in need.
  • Elf Emporium | Kids ages 8 and under can pick out pre-wrapped gifts for their loved ones at this special shop inside The Children’s Museum’s lobby.

Reserve your spot

More from CHStoday
Broaden your horizons and indulge in elevated fare with a tasting menu from one of these Charleston restaurants.
Celebrate Black History Month with these community events around the Holy City.
The Darius Rucker Big Band Gala will offer a unique night of music, with part of the proceeds benefiting the Charleston community.
Dip your toes into “phillumeny,” aka the practice of collecting matchbooks, while you explore CHS and support local businesses at the same time.
Several Charleston restaurants are offering special Lunar New Year menus.
Spending Valentine’s Day at home? Here’s how you can still have a special night without breaking the bank, hiring a sitter, or even leaving your couch.
Get in on the outdoor-lover fun or elevate your SEWE experience with one of these several events happening around the Holy City.
Bareo, a new concept from the team behind Kultura, is opening on Spring Street and aims to be a spot to celebrate good food and friendship.
We’ve rounded up the top things to do and places to eat if you plan to spend Valentine’s Day in Charleston.
Whether you’re planning a wild weekend of wildlife interaction or a quiet evening admiring fine art, The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition has something for everybody.