Hop Aboard The Polar Express
Experience the magic of Christmas on a very special train ride.
“All aboard,” the conductor cried out. I ran up to him.
“Well,” he said, “are you coming?”
“Where?” I asked.
“Why, to the North Pole of course,” was his answer. “This is the Polar Express.”
Story by Erin Deinzer
When Chris Van Allsburg published The Polar Express in 1985, the book became an instant classic. Years later, many marveled at the animated movie featuring the voice of Tom Hanks.
But perhaps the most memorable version of the story is told across the U.S. at the start of the holiday season, when thousands of children in their pjs and nightgowns step aboard decorated trains and are magically transported to the North Pole.
Whether we’re kids at heart or chronologically young, there are dozens of Polar Express trains to experience that same Christmas magic. Each journey begins with the conductor beckoning everyone to climb aboard. As the train rolls over the tracks, a narrator reads the story aloud. Kids can follow along in their own book, or simply listen. With the journey now underway, hot chocolate and sweets are served by dancing chefs as the train chugs along towards “the North Pole,” where Santa and his elves await. Not wanting to divulge too many surprises, let’s just say Mr. Claus visits with each child to present them with a very special gift.
Although most people are likely interested in a train that runs closest to home, these Polar Express™ Train Rides add a little something extra.
Enjoy the journey of rediscovering the season and may the spirit of Christmas transport you all!
Grand Canyon Railway, Williams AZ
Travel through the nighttime wilderness of Williams en route to see Santa on the Polar Express train, or upgrade to The Polar Express Package which also includes an overnight stay at the Railway Hotel, dinner, and breakfast. Williams is located near the magnificent Grand Canyon, making this version a fantastic way to integrate a national park visit into the experience. https://www.thetrain.com/events/polar-express/
California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento, CA
The evening begins with entertainment in the passenger station, followed by the ride itself on seven separate cars pulled by vintage locomotives from the museum’s collection. Choose from indoor cars with loveseat-style seating, an “open-air car” (enclosed in see-through plastic coverings), the Audubon Dining Car (decorated with hand-painted reproductions of John James Audubon’s bird illustrations), the French Quarter Lounge Car (with a painted ceiling and its own serving bar), or the El Dorado Parlor or Lounge Car — both of which provide access to the outdoor observation deck. https://www.californiarailroad.museum/events/polar-express
Miami Central on Brightline, Miami, FL
It’s probably no surprise that in a state where theme parks are a major part of the landscape, their version of The Polar Express is filled with theatrics, special effects, and lots of dazzling lights. But what makes the Brightline option particularly memorable is the opportunity to travel to the North Pole and back without having to don a sweater or worry about inclement weather. https://miamithepolarexpressride.com/theride/
French Lick Scenic Railway, French Lick, IN
Gather up the gang and board the French Lick Scenic Railway’s Dome Class car, where you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding woods. Upon your return, head to a European-inspired room inside the West Baden Springs Hotel. Once the kids are tucked safely in bed, savor a holiday beverage on the wrought-iron balcony overlooking the elegant atrium as the resort’s magnificent domed ceiling sparkles overhead. https://frenchlickthepolarexpressride.com/theride/
B & O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD
Step into history where “the First Stone of the railroad and the nation’s first mile of commercial track were laid.” The B&O (Baltimore & Ohio) Railroad Museum offers up a special treat to its nighttime riders on the Polar Express: admission to the onsite museum. Located on the grounds of the B&O’s Mount Clare Shops, the museum houses a wealth of train memorabilia, as well as the historic Baldwin Roundhouse—which covers nearly an acre of ground. https://www.borail.org/events/polar-express/
St. Louis Union Station, St. Louis, MO
Looking to spend more quality time with Mr. Claus beyond the train ride itself? On weekend mornings in November and December, families can enjoy Pancakes with Santa in the visually stunning Grand Hall at St. Louis’ Union Station. A 3D light show plays out on the ceiling of the hall while you and yours enjoy pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream. (And, of course, Santa is available for family photos.) https://www.stlpolarexpressride.com/
For a list of other Polar Express™ Train Rides across the U.S. and Canada, visit: https://www.raileventsinc.com/polar-express-train-ride/locations/
