River Fox Afternoon Tea Train in Sacramento

If you love afternoon tea, but want to make it truly memorable, the River Fox Afternoon Tea Train in West Sacramento is a must-try. Imagine enjoying classic tea service with pastries and finger sandwiches while rolling past the serene Sacramento River farmland aboard a beautifully restored vintage train.

It’s a whimsical, relaxing experience that combines nostalgia, scenic views, and a slower pace. Perfect for escaping life’s usual rush. Whether you’re planning a girls’ day out, a mother-daughter outing, a birthday celebration, or a unique weekend adventure, this train ride is one of Northern California’s most charming day trips.

The River Fox Train Company has been operating in the Sacramento area for years, offering historic train excursions that let visitors experience California from a completely different perspective. The company focuses on recreating the magic of classic rail travel while making it family-friendly and interactive.

The trains themselves are vintage railcars, many of which have been carefully restored to their original charm. The interiors feature polished wood, vintage light fixtures, and large panoramic windows, creating a nostalgic feel reminiscent of the golden age of train travel.

Over the years, the River Fox has expanded its lineup to include:

Holiday-themed rides: Christmas and Halloween trains, complete with decorations and themed snacks.
Wine & Beer trains: For adults looking for a social outing with scenic views.
Railbike excursions: Interactive rides along the river, perfect for active visitors.
Afternoon Tea Train: Combining the elegance of a classic tea service with the tranquility of slow-moving rail.

Among these, the Afternoon Tea Train is a standout because it’s approachable for all ages and feels special without being pretentious.

The Afternoon Tea Train isn’t just about tea; it’s about the full experience of slowing down and savoring the moment.

Seating and Ambiance

The train cars are classic, vintage-style coaches that evoke nostalgia for an earlier era.

Tables for two to four people, ideal for couples, small groups, or families.
Polished wood paneling and vintage fixtures that create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Large panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of farmland, the Sacramento River, and occasional wildlife.

The vibe is cozy and quaint. It’s a perfect backdrop for tea and conversation.

Tea, Pastries, and Finger Sandwiches

The tea service is top-notch and included in your ticket, featuring:

Loose-leaf teas, served hot in traditional teapots.
Classic finger sandwiches, often including cucumber, egg salad, and vegetarian options.
Fresh pastries, such as scones with clotted cream, mini tarts, cakes, and seasonal specialties.

Everything is elegantly presented and freshly prepared.

The Scenic Route

The train travels slowly through peaceful West Sacramento farmland, giving you time to relax, chat, and fully take in the views. You’ll see:

Wide-open fields and farmland.
The Sacramento River and its surrounding greenery towards the start of your trip.
Seasonal crops, wildlife, and occasional river boats.

It’s an experience that feels like stepping back in time, even for just 90 minutes.

Here’s what you need to know before planning your trip:

Location: West Sacramento, California.
Available: Weekends only.
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Cost: Tickets start at $90 per person.
Parking: Free and easy.
Kid-Friendly: Yes! Families are welcome.

Booking tickets is straightforward:

Simply follow the link below and select “Afternoon Tea” to book your tickets online.

Book my tickets.

Tip: The train can sell out quickly, especially on weekends during spring and fall. Booking ahead is highly recommended.

The Afternoon Tea Train pairs perfectly with other Sacramento-area attractions, making it easy to turn a half-day into a full-day trip:

Old Sacramento Waterfront: Historic shops, museums, and riverfront walks.
Tower Bridge: An iconic Sacramento landmark that’s not too far away.
Sacramento Riverwalk Park: Scenic walking trails along the river.
Farm-to-Fork Restaurants: West Sacramento has a growing number of casual and upscale dining options.
Local Wineries: A short drive away for wine lovers.

This makes it easy to plan a full Northern California day trip with multiple stops.

Q: Is it kid-friendly?
A: Yes. Children are welcome, though it’s a more leisurely and relaxed experience.

Q: Can I bring my own food or drinks?
A: No - everything you need is included with your ticket, ensuring a proper tea experience.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Absolutely. The vintage cars and scenic route are very photogenic.

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: No formal dress code. People often dress smart-casual or vintage-inspired to match the tea vibe.

Q: Are there vegetarian or dietary options?
A: Yes, the train offers a variety of tea snacks, including vegetarian options.

The River Fox Afternoon Tea Train is more than just tea; it’s a slow, whimsical escape from everyday life. It combines:

The charm of vintage train travel.
The elegance of classic afternoon tea.
Scenic Northern California countryside views.

It’s perfect for:

Tea lovers.
Families seeking unique outings.
Couples on a relaxed date.
Anyone wanting to pause and enjoy life for 90 minutes.

So skip the crowded brunch spots and coffee shops next weekend. Step onto a vintage train, sip your tea, nibble pastries, and enjoy the slowest 1.5 hours of your life, in the best possible way.

You can book your tickets here: Book my tickets.

Important Note: Discover California will earn a commission if you make a reservation using one of our links.

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San Francisco, CA/Bay Area

jordan.reid@discovercalifornia.co

River Fox Afternoon Tea Train in Sacramento