Let’s be honest: winter train rides just have a way of making the holiday season feel real. There’s nothing quite like climbing aboard a festively decorated train, sipping hot cocoa, and watching the snowy world roll by. Across America, more than 40 special train rides transform into festive journeys inspired by the beloved Polar Express story. You’ll find families sharing hot chocolate, meeting Santa, and reliving a classic tale—on real rails.
These magical rides usually run from late November through December. Passengers glide through snowy forests, past glowing stations, and right into the heart of Christmas Eve wonder.
I’ve spent hours hunting down the most popular routes so you don’t have to. Want red rock canyons in Arizona? How about California vineyards? Each train has its own twist, but all of them keep that original Polar Express spirit alive.
Some rides last just 45 minutes, others stretch into full evening adventures with fancy dining. No matter your style, there’s a winter train that fits your plans.
What really gets me about these rides is the nostalgia. Kids walk away with special bells, meet storybook characters, and watch scenes from the book play out right outside their windows. Adults get to see the season through new eyes, and those memories? They stick around long after the tree comes down.
Key Takeaways
- Over 40 Polar Express train rides operate in the U.S. from November to December, with storytelling, hot cocoa, and Santa visits.
- Favorites include the Grand Canyon Railway in Arizona, Napa Valley Wine Train in California, and Colorado’s Royal Gorge Route Railroad.
- Tickets sell out fast—most go on sale in the summer. Book early if you want that magical winter train experience.
What Is the Polar Express Experience?
The Polar Express experience takes a beloved children’s story and turns it into a real-life adventure. Families board decorated trains, listen to the story, sip hot cocoa, and meet Santa Claus. It’s a memory-maker, especially during Christmas.
Origins and Inspiration
Chris Van Allsburg wrote the original Polar Express book back in 1985. The story follows a young boy who boards a mysterious train on Christmas Eve, bound for the North Pole.
The 2004 animated film made the story a holiday staple for even more families.
In the early 2000s, scenic railroads across America started offering rides based on the book. They use real trains—sometimes vintage cars—to match the magical setting.
I’ve noticed that most rides stick pretty closely to the book’s best moments.
Whenever possible, railroads roll out historic locomotives. Some even use steam engines for extra authenticity. You’ll spot plenty of twinkling lights and festive details on every car.
Journey to the North Pole
The magic begins as soon as you board. Conductors in crisp uniforms greet families and punch those iconic golden tickets.
Once everyone’s settled, the train heads out into the wintery landscape.
Conductors read the Polar Express aloud as the train glides along. Attendants bring hot chocolate and cookies, just like in the story.
Families join in singing Christmas carols while the train chugs along.
Most rides last between one and two hours. Sometimes the train stops at a recreated North Pole; other times, Santa climbs aboard while you’re rolling along.
Santa walks through each car, greeting kids and handing out gifts. The silver sleigh bell—the first gift of Christmas—always steals the show.
Family Traditions and Holiday Magic
Lots of families make this train ride an annual Christmas tradition. Parents and kids show up in pajamas, just like in the book.
Some folks return to the same railroad every year, building a tradition that grows with their children.
Kids of all ages have something to love. Little ones light up when they meet Santa and get their bell. Older kids appreciate the nostalgia and the festive energy.
I’ve seen families bond over shared mugs of cocoa, carols, and those magical moments with Santa. Parents tell me their kids remember these trips for years.
Top Polar Express and North Pole Express Train Rides in America
Dozens of train rides across America bring the Polar Express and North Pole Express stories to life. You’ll find hot chocolate, cookies, carols, and—of course—Santa himself.
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Colorado’s Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad runs one of the country’s most popular Polar Express rides. They operate from mid-November through early January at 479 Main Ave in Durango.
You can pick from vintage, deluxe, or first-class seating. Tickets range from $39 to $89 per person, depending on your choice.
Onboard, singing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies while the story is read aloud. The train winds through mountain scenery before arriving at the “North Pole,” where Santa hops aboard.
Every believer gets a silver sleigh bell from Santa’s sleigh.
I’d say book your tickets early—these rides sell out every year.
Adirondack Railroad Polar Express in New York
The Adirondack Railroad in New York offers a North Pole Express that captures the spirit of the classic story.
Passengers wear pajamas and get the full Polar Express treatment. Conductors in period costumes punch golden tickets, just like in the book and movie.
Hot cocoa and treats come out as the train rolls along. Santa greets everyone and gives out the first gift of Christmas—a shiny silver bell.
There’s caroling and readings from Chris Van Allsburg’s original book. Families often come back year after year to keep the magic alive.
Steam Railroading Institute’s North Pole Express
The Steam Railroading Institute in Michigan runs the North Pole Express with real steam locomotives. This ride pays tribute to Chris Van Allsburg’s Michigan roots.
The train leaves from Owosso and takes passengers on a magical journey, complete with hot chocolate and cookies. Dancing chefs keep everyone entertained as they serve treats.
Kids often wear pajamas for the full effect. The conductor punches tickets as the train heads north.
Santa and his helpers greet everyone at the destination. Each child gets a sleigh bell to remember the trip. The whole thing takes about 90 minutes and really captures the story’s wonder.
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Polar Express
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad runs Polar Express trains from late November through December 24th. You’ll find the depot at 13 Canal Street in Cumberland, Maryland.
They offer both steam and diesel trains on different days. Departure stations can change, so double-check when you book.
The ride includes all the classics: hot chocolate, cookies, carols, and a reading of the book. Santa boards the train and hands out a silver bell to each passenger.
Ticket prices vary based on the date and train type. The experience appeals to kids and adults who want to relive Polar Express magic. Multiple departure times are available, so you can find something that fits your schedule.
Enchanting Onboard Activities and Traditions
The train ride packs in all the details from the story. You get hot cocoa, cookies, a reading of the book, and a visit from Santa for an unforgettable evening.
Hot Chocolate and Holiday Treats
Dancing chefs and waiters serve up rich hot chocolate to every passenger. I always love watching them move through the train, making the delivery feel like a performance.
Walker’s Shortbread cookies come with each cup. These are the official Polar Express treats. The cookies and cocoa aren’t just snacks; they’re part of the story.
Staff interact with passengers while serving, which keeps the festive mood going.
Festive Pajamas and Storytime
Passengers show up in Christmas pajamas to match the book and movie. This tradition creates perfect photo ops and helps everyone feel like part of the story.
The conductor punches golden tickets during the ride, just like in the movie. Then, staff read the Polar Express book aloud as the train heads toward the North Pole.
Christmas carols fill the cars. The soundtrack from the movie sets the scene. Everyone sings along, turning the ride into a celebration, not just a show.
Meeting Santa Claus and Receiving the Silver Sleigh Bell
Santa and his elves board the train at the North Pole stop. They walk through each car, greeting passengers.
Santa gives every child a silver sleigh bell—the first gift of Christmas.
That bell becomes a keepsake, a reminder of the story’s message about belief and the magic of Christmas. Passengers also get a souvenir golden ticket to take home.
Even babies traveling as “Babe-in-Arms” for $10 get their own golden ticket, silver bell, cookie, and cocoa. Nobody misses out on the magic.
Planning Your Polar Express Train Adventure
If you want a smooth holiday experience, book your tickets early and know your seating options. Most Polar Express rides sell out weeks—or even months—in advance. Each ticket class offers different perks, so check what fits your budget.
How to Book Tickets
Grab your tickets as soon as they’re released, usually in late summer or early fall. Most places open bookings 3–6 months before the first ride.
Sign up for email alerts or join the mailing list at your favorite location. Popular dates—especially weekends near Christmas—sell out in days. Some places offer pre-sales for members or returning guests.
If you’re lucky enough to live near several North Pole Express locations, compare your options. Ticket prices can vary a lot by location, class, and date. Weekend evenings usually cost more but feel extra magical with all the twinkling lights.
Types of Train Classes and Amenities
Most rides offer three or four ticket levels. Coach class gives you standard seating and all the basics: cocoa, cookies, storytime, and Santa.
First class usually means comfier seats, extra treats, and sometimes a souvenir mug.
Premium options—like observation cars or private compartments—cost more but offer panoramic views and more space for families. Some trains have table seating for groups who want to face each other.
No matter which ticket you buy, you’ll get the essentials: a reading of the book, carols, the silver sleigh bell, and a visit from Santa. The big differences are in comfort and keepsakes, not the core activities.
Best Times and Tips for Travelers
Weekday afternoon rides work well for little kids who get tired early. Weekend evening rides feel the most magical as the sun goes down and the lights come up.
Arrive 45–60 minutes before your departure. Parking fills up fast, and stations usually have photo ops, gift shops, and holiday displays to enjoy before you board.
Wear pajamas! It’s part of the fun, and most families embrace it. Bring a small bag with tissues, wipes, and a backup outfit—hot cocoa spills are pretty much guaranteed on a moving train.
Making the Experience Extra Magical
Small touches can turn a regular train ride into something unforgettable. Pajamas, reading the story ahead of time, and snapping photos help families tap into that Polar Express magic.
Dressing the Part: Pajamas and Themed Outfits
Honestly, pajamas are a must for any Polar Express ride. They set the tone for the whole adventure.
Most families show up in their coziest sleepwear, from fleece to flannel. Kids love wearing pajamas in public—it just feels special. I’ve seen everything from matching family sets to each person rocking their favorite pair.
Some favorite outfit ideas:
- Pajama sets with holiday prints
- Bathrobes and slippers for extra comfort
- Santa hats or reindeer antlers
- Cozy scarves and mittens
The train cars stay warm, so skip the heavy coats and focus on comfort. Blankets add to the cozy vibe. Some families coordinate outfits every year, turning it into their own holiday tradition.
Reading the Story and Watching the Movie
If you can, read “The Polar Express” with your kids at least once before hopping aboard the train. It really sets the stage and gets everyone buzzing with anticipation.
The book’s a quick read—maybe ten minutes—and introduces the whole silver sleigh bell thing. When kids know the story, they light up at every little reference during the ride, from the hot chocolate to that classic conductor’s call.
Honestly, watching the movie works too. The film brings to life scenes that most Polar Express rides try to recreate, like caroling and rolling into the North Pole. In my experience, families who dive into the story beforehand always seem to get more out of the trip.
Creating Family Memories and Photo Opportunities
Photos capture the magic of this whole experience in a way that lasts. I always bring my camera and keep an eye out for those can’t-miss moments.
The best shots? When kids get their hot chocolate, when Santa makes his entrance, and when they’re grinning with their silver sleigh bell. Train staff usually pause for photos during these highlights, which is a nice touch. Some places offer pro photo packages, but honestly, I prefer snapping my own.
Key moments to photograph:
- Boarding the decked-out train
- Cuddling up to read the story
- Meeting Santa Claus
- Showing off that shiny silver bell
Natural light beats flash in those cozy, dim train cars. Candid reactions always tell a better story than stiff poses—those real smiles and wide eyes are what you’ll want to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a Polar Express ride? You’re definitely not alone. Families always ask about the best rides, how to book, and what makes each one unique.
You’ll find popular Polar Express adventures in Colorado, Texas, and plenty of other spots across the U.S. Most rides last between one and two hours, which feels just right with younger kids.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina is a clear favorite. It winds through gorgeous mountain scenery for about 75 minutes.
If you’re after a classic steam train, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado is hard to beat. This one chugs through the San Juan National Forest and takes about 90 minutes.
The Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona? That’s a longer adventure—four to five hours roundtrip. The highlight is stopping at a North Pole village where Santa climbs aboard.
Other standouts include the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad in Ohio, Mt. Hood Railroad in Oregon, and the Texas State Railroad in Palestine. All of them serve up hot chocolate, story readings, and, of course, a visit from Santa.
Here’s the thing: Colorado Springs doesn’t actually have an official Polar Express train. The closest options are in Durango and Golden.
The Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden puts on a Polar Express event that lasts about an hour. You can snag tickets on their website or by calling their ticket office.
For Durango & Silverton, you’ll need to book through their official site. Tickets usually go on sale in late summer or early fall, and they sell out fast—so don’t wait too long.
Across the U.S., you’ll find Polar Express rides in states like North Carolina, Colorado, Arizona, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Indiana, Massachusetts, and New York.
Start by checking with scenic railroads or local railroad museums in your area. Most run these magical events from November through December.
Rail Events Inc. keeps an updated list of official Polar Express locations on their website. You can also just call your nearest railway museum or scenic railroad and ask about their holiday schedule.
Absolutely! The Texas State Railroad runs a Polar Express ride from Palestine, Texas, rolling through the Piney Woods for about 90 minutes.
You’ll get all the classics—hot chocolate, cookies, storytime, and a visit from Santa, who hands out silver bells to each child.
Tickets usually drop in late summer. I’d check their website or ring their box office for the latest info and to grab your spot for the 2025 season.
As far as I know, the Delaware River Railroad doesn’t run an official Polar Express event. Not every scenic railroad takes part in the licensed program.
Some railways offer their own holiday train rides with Santa, hot chocolate, and festive lights, even if they don’t use the Polar Express name.
If you’re curious, just reach out to the Delaware River Railroad. They’ll have the most accurate info on any winter events they’re planning.
The Durango & Silverton ride rolls out with genuine steam locomotives, not those modern diesel engines. That means you get the real train sounds—those deep whistles and rhythmic chugs instantly transport you back in time.
You’ll wind through the San Juan National Forest, where snow blankets the peaks and the wilderness stretches out in every direction. Honestly, the wintry scenery feels straight out of a storybook.
The journey takes about an hour and a half, which is a bit longer than most other Polar Express rides I’ve tried. It gives you plenty of time to soak in the magic.
Inside, you’ll settle into vintage train cars decked out for the holidays. Picture twinkling lights, festive garlands, and that cozy old-fashioned vibe.
The mix of a working steam engine, mountain views, and historic cars really draws you in. Out of all the Polar Express routes I’ve seen, this one stands out as the most scenic in America.
