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Relive the magic of this classic holiday story with your family on a real train!
Schedule & tickets.
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View our schedule and book your tickets for this one-of-a-kind experience!
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THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s24) Based on THE POLAR EXPRESS book and characters © & ™ 1985 by Chris Van Allsburg. Used by permission of Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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2024 Tickets On Sale Tuesday, June 25th at 9:00am EDT!
Groups of 20+ on sale 6/20 at 9:00am.
Groups Must Be Purchased via Phone at 973-419-6255
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THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE
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Pajamas & Gifts Now Online
Exclusive, officially licensed gifts that were previously only available at THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride are now available to order online! Whether you are attending one of our events or enjoying a fun THE POLAR EXPRESS™ party at home, hop on board with our new and unique products. Quantities on popular items like pajamas are limited, so order now and complete your holiday shopping before time runs out. Visit www.raileventsretail.com to shop now.
The Polar Express ™ Train Ride
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Join us for a magical trip!
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical one-hour trip to meet Santa. Once on board, car hosts will work their way through the coach and punch golden tickets before hot chocolate and a delicious cookie are served by dancing chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express , by Chris Van Allsburg.
Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas. During the trip, characters on each car lead fantastic onboard entertainment – just like in the film! Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical trip. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride!
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R ail Events Inc. coordinates licensed special events, event promotions, merchandising, and related activities to railroad and museum operators throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
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What to expect
Set to the sounds of the motion picture, passengers will relive the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical trip to the North Pole. Once on board, the Conductor will work their way through the coach and punch your golden ticket as you’re served hot chocolate and a delicious cookie by our dancing chefs!
Passengers will read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg.
Once at The North Pole, Santa and his Elves board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. During the trip, characters on each car lead passengers in caroling and on board entertainment – just like in the film! Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell in addition to the wonderful memories made on this unforgettable adventure.
We request passengers arrive approximately 45 minutes before their departure time and check in at the will call desk located in the Westbrook Station Ticket Office. Boarding starts approximately 20 minutes before departure time. Please arrive on time as all trains leave as scheduled without exception.
Wheelchair seating is limited in our 1950’s vintage coaches. If there is anyone in the party with mobility issues – please contact us at 845-332- 4854, we can book your tickets in a coach that can accommodate wheel chairs.
We do have limited seats reserved for families with sensory sensitivities. Please contact us at 845-332-4854 to book these seats. There will be softer audio and lighting levels in these seats.
In order to offer the best experience for all guests, seating is assigned on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. You will select your own seats during the online checkout process as you would on an airline. The seats you select will be the seats you sit in – seating can not be re-adjusted or combined. Please review seating charts carefully. The train travels to the North Pole and returns over the same tracks, all passengers will ride forward for half of their trip and backwards for the other half (or vice versa).
A limited number of emergency restrooms are available on board the train. Please alert a staff member if a member of your party needs to use the restroom, as they may need to be escorted to another car to access the nearest one. It is important to note that there are no wheelchair accessible restrooms located on the train.
No Alcohol Policy
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a family-friendly event and no alcohol is sold or allowed on board the train. Intoxicated passengers or those found in possession of alcohol will be removed from the event without refund.
November 15 – December 29, 2024
Off Peak Adult – $46 | Off Peak Child – $36
Peak Adult – $55 | Peak Child – $45
Email or call with any questions: [email protected] | (845) 332-4854
ULSTER COUNTY DISCOUNT
$10.00 OFF THE REGULAR POLAR EXPRESS TICKET PRICE PER PERSON FOR ULSTER COUNTY RESIDENTS.
As a special holiday offer to Ulster County residents, get a $10.00 discount off your regular Polar Express tickets per person by contacting us at info@ catskillmountainrailroad.com . Proof of Ulster County residence is required by submitting your driver’s license or government ID .
Click on Date then Time to Purchase Tickets
Buy Tickets:
November OFF Peak
November 15, 2024
November 16, 2024
November 17, 2024
November 22, 2024
November 23, 2024
November 24, 2024
November Peak
November 29, 2024
November 30, 2024
December OFF Peak
December 6, 2024
December 27, 2024
December 28, 2024
December 29, 2024
December Peak
December 1, 2024
December 7, 2024
December 8, 2024
December 13, 2024
December 14, 2024
December 15, 2024
December 18, 2024
December 19, 2024
December 20, 2024
December 21, 2024
December 22, 2024
December 23, 2024
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Discount rates for Polar Express Customers
The Polar Express FAQ
How can i reserve tickets.
Once tickets have been released, passengers may book their reservations on line at this website. Additionally, reservations agents can be reached by calling our office: 845-332-4854 .
All times are Eastern Standard Time.
WHERE IS THE WESTBROOK STATION LOCATED?
Westbrook Lane Station: 55 Kingston Plaza Rd, Kingston, NY 12401
View Directions
WHAT IS THE POLAR EXPRESS™ TRAIN RIDE?
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a re-creation of the classic children’s story on board a real train. Passengers are served hot chocolate and cookies by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the first gift of Christmas (a silver sleigh bell) after Santa boards the train to greet families at the North Pole. Attendants lead passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the return trip to the Westbrook Station in Kingston.
HOW LONG IS THE EXPERIENCE? WHEN SHOULD WE ARRIVE?
The entire experience in Kingston and on the train is roughly an hour and a half in length. It is requested that guests arrive approximately 45 minutes prior to their departure time. This allows time to park and check in at the Westbrook Station. Boarding will begin approximately 20 minutes prior to listed departure times. The train ride itself is just over an hour in length.
MAY I USE MY TICKETS FOR ANY TRAIN RIDE?
Your purchased reservations are only good for the specific excursion on your chosen date and time.
IS SEATING ASSIGNED?
Yes. In order to offer the best experience for all guests, seating is assigned on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride this season. You will select your own seats during the online checkout process as you would on an airline. Please review seating charts carefully.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OFF-PEAK AND PEAK PRICING?
Peak pricing delineates our trains which are in high demand and at full price.
Off-peak tickets are for trains with lower demand which we’re happy to provide at a discount.
HOW SOON SHOULD I BOOK TICKETS?
It is recommended that reservations are made as soon as your group knows which date and time you would like to attend. Tickets have sold out quickly for this event in past years.
IS THE EVENT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
The Westbrook Station and the train are wheelchair accessible, however wheelchair seating is limited. It is also important to note that there are no wheelchair accessible restrooms located on the train. Designated parking spaces for those with disabilities are located directly adjacent to the station. Please notify parking attendants if a member of your party has mobility issues and requires a reserved space. If a member of your party requires wheelchair access, please select the appropriate wheelchair/companion seats during online checkout or contact a reservations representative at 845-332-4854 to make reservations.
HOW DO I BOOK TICKETS FOR SOMEONE WITH A DISABILITY?
To ensure your experience is exceptional, please call our reservations representative at 845-332-4854 to make reservations so CMRR ensures your needs are met; do not book online. When necessary, we will ensure you’re provided seating in our special Hudson car featuring staff trained to ensure comfort and enjoyment for all, while accommodating passengers with autism, hearing impairments and other unique needs.
WHERE CAN I FIND FOOD ALLERGY INFORMATION?
When booking your tickets, please inform a reservations representative if anyone in your party has a food allergy or special dietary needs. Please also inform your car’s onboard staff members as you board the train. Cookies and hot chocolate are served on the train. The cookies do not contain nuts, but may come from a facility that processes nuts. The hot chocolate contains dairy. Anyone with a food allergy or special dietary needs is welcome to bring an alternate treat or drink item on board.
WHERE DO WE PARK?
Designated parking spaces for those with disabilities or mobility issues are located directly adjacent to the station. Parking is free for all and adjacent the train station in the Kingston Plaza lot.
ARE THERE RESTROOMS ON BOARD THE TRAIN?
A limited number of restrooms are available on board the train. Please alert a staff member if a member of your party needs to use the restroom, as they may need to be escorted to another car to access the nearest one. It is important to note that there are no wheelchair accessible restrooms located on the train.
DO INFANTS RIDE FOR FREE?
Children under two may ride for free provided they are not occupying a seat and ride on an adult’s lap. A free infant ticket must be selected at checkout and the name of the child must be provided on the reservation. This is to ensure every passenger can be accounted for in case of emergency.
WHAT SHOULD MY FAMILY WEAR?
Families are encouraged to wear warm pajamas just like passengers from THE POLAR EXPRESS™ book and film. Passengers may spend time on an unheated platform as they board and disembark from the train, so appropriate winter attire is also recommended.
WHERE DOES THE TRAIN GO?
To the North Pole and back. Conveniently, a round trip is less than a ten mile journey and approximately 70 minutes in length..
ARE TICKETS REFUNDABLE?
Like sporting events, concerts, and other live events, tickets for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride are not refundable.
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CAN I CHANGE MY RESERVATION TO A DIFFERENT DATE OR TIME? CAN I CHANGE NAMES ON TICKETS?
If seats are available on another date/train, our reservations agents will do their best to accommodate your request. However, no guarantees can be made that your reservation can be changed. Name changes on tickets are allowed. Name changes need to be made at least 24 hrs before departure time by speaking with a reservations agent. The reservation holder must make this request and be able to provide their name, email address, and credit card information in order to change names on tickets. A small charge may apply.
WILL THE EVENT TAKE PLACE IF THERE IS SNOW OR OTHER INCLEMENT WEATHER?
Yes. Trains will continue to run in snow and other weather conditions. The event may also be cancelled or postponed if the State Highway Patrol closes major roads and freeways due to snow or natural disasters. Full refunds will be offered in this scenario.
NO ALCOHOL POLICY
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is a family-friendly event and no alcohol is sold or allowed on board the train. Intoxicated or chemically impaired passengers or those found in possession of alcohol will be removed from the event without refund.
CONTACT US:
Once tickets have been released guests may book their reservations online on this website. Additionally, reservations agents can be reached at our office: 845-332-4854
CMRR REFUND AND CANCELLATION POLICIES
ALL SALES ARE FINAL and NO REFUNDS will be granted. In most cases, a replacement ticket for another ride will be issued dependent on the reason for the request. All events are time and date specific, all sales will be final, and no refunds will be granted.
DISCLAIMER: Schedules are adhered to as closely as possible, however the railroad reserves the right to alter schedules and itinerary, and substitute equipment as conditions demand.
Testimonials
“The whole experience was well run, well organized and good for anyone young and old!! Some families came in their pajamas!!”
– romara711 (from tripadvisor.com), Peekskill, NY
“Fun time with the whole family… The crew/ elves are entertaining all trip and provide great chocolate cookies and hot chocolate.”
– bigdipper47 (from tripadviser.com), Bohemia, NY
“We had an awesome time on the Catskill Mountain Railroad – we rode for the first time on The Polar Express and we were not disappointed! We’ll look forward to riding this railroad again!”
– Rob H. (from tripadvisor.com), Keymar, Maryland
“I recommend this very fun holiday activity for families with young children.”
– George626 (from tripadvisor.com), Las Vegas, Nevada
“For children, especially my grandchildren, this was the best Santa train ride they had been on and the have been on one every year since they could walk.”
– vlcnyc (from tripadvisor.com), Staten Island, NY
“We went on the Polar Express. It was extremely well done and the kids loved it.”
– Matthew Nolan
“This is a great attraction , I personally love old things and these trains are really neat. To be able to ride on them is even more incredible.”
– Alex R.
“Awesome Experience !!! Truly everyone should experience this.”
– Jacqueline Verywell
“Nothing like the Polar Express thru the eyes of a child or 2 Grandmas who just wanted to go… Well done !!!!”
– Jill Short
“Just an overall good time great for the family! Will be back next year! Bravo!”
– Joseph Gallipoli
“There’s singing, dancing…. enough fun things to put a smile on your face, unless you’re a miserable Grinch!”
– M M
“The Polar Express ride was tons of fun for kids and adults.”
– Jeffrey Bates
“Staff is on point, pay so much attention to the kids, engaging them with song and dance, etc!!”
– Allison Phillips
“Amazing experience, the train ride was a lot of fun and very educational!”
– Natashia Velez
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride 2024
French lick scenic railway, french lick, in.
Please click on any day, highlighted in blue, in November or December to see available rides in the drop down menu below the calendar. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical 80 Minute trip through a rail yard, neighborhoods, and through a tunnel on the way to The North Pole. Once on board, your Conductor will work their way through the coach and punch your ticket before hot chocolate and a delicious cookie are served by dancing chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. On the return trip from the North Pole, Elves on each car lead passengers in caroling, and onboard entertainment – creating memories you will never forget! Each child will take home a keepsake sleigh bell in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical tri p.
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530 West Avenue Medina, NY 14103
Museum- 585-798-6106.
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JOIN US FOR A MAGICAL TRIP!
November 30th & December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22nd
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a magical one-hour trip to meet Santa.
Once on board, the conductor will come around and punch your golden ticket before hot chocolate and a delicious cookie are served by chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. During the trip, characters on each car lead fantastic onboard entertainment !
When we arrive at the North Pole, Santa will join us for the ride back to the museum.
Santa will give each child the first gift of Christmas, a sleigh bell in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical trip. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride!
Families can explore the railroad museum’s exhibits and interactive model train layout.
Come Hungry! We have a food vendor on site, conveniently located on our grounds, with several meal options, sides, snacks and beverages to choose from.
All items purchased from our vendor may be brought onto the train.
No outside food or beverages are allowed.
Tickets for the ride must be purchased in advance.
All tickets include admission into the museum.
IF YOU ARE PART OF A LARGE GROUP THAT WANTS TO BE SEATED TOGETHER, PLEASE MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS AT THE SAME TIME.
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First Class Car A
![polar express bus trip Roe Car west end.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/d4311a_2c417f87b8d54d12ac1b97aed6830d44~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_235,h_313,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/Roe%20Car%20west%20end.jpg)
First Class Car B
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First Class Car C
FIRST CLASS SEATING
$220.00 per table of 4 seats
Everyone age 1yr old and up needs a seat
*Children under 1 ride free on a lap.
First Class passengers receive their own Polar Express ceramic souvenir cocoa mug, hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a cookie. Children receive a bell from Santa.
One Polar Express tote bag will be given for every table purchased.
![polar express bus trip bell and cookie.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/d4311a_8b3e932f1af041128bfa61a18322d020~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_63,h_112,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/bell%20and%20cookie.jpg)
COACH SEATING
$40.00 per person from age 1 yr old and up
Coach Seating passengers receive hot cocoa and a cookie.
Children receive a bell from Santa.
![polar express bus trip polar coach.JPG](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/d4311a_eb17edbc194148f6978a1cb191d548e3~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_215,h_142,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/polar%20coach_JPG.jpg)
All seats will be sold. If you wish to NOT sit next to a stranger, you must purchase the seat next to you.
Choose your date, departure time and choice of seating below
*Trains depart on time.
Train boarding starts 20 minutes prior to departure.
Please arrive 1 hour prior to your departure time.
We can not hold the train for late arrivals and tickets are non-refundable
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 30TH
FIRST CLASS COACH SEATING
SUNDAY DECEMBER 1ST
FIRST CLASS COACH SEATING
SATURDAY DECEMBER 7TH
SUNDAY DECEMBER 8TH
SATURDAY DECEMBER 14TH
SUNDAY DECEMBER 15TH
SATURDAY DECEMBER 21ST
SUNDAY DECEMBER 22ND
Museum: 585-798-6106
Fall foliage & polar express tickets: 716-948-0505, event parking:, 698 gwinn st. medina, ny 14103 handicap parking: 530 west avenue, medina ny, museum admission, adults: $9.00 seniors: (60 and over): $8.00 children under 18: $7.00 kids under 2: free, business hours wednesday-sunday 10:00am-5:00pm closed monday & tuesday , get directions:, * you must pick up your tickets inside the museum prior to getting on the train * plan to arrive one hour prior to your train as it will leave on schedule, group discounts available for 25 or more, tripadviser.
![polar express bus trip polar express bus trip](https://nationalrrmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/NRM-logo-bottom-homepage-500x279-1.png)
- About The Museum
- Tickets / Hours
- Train Rides
- Group Tours
- Media / Research
- Health and Safety Protocols
- Staff Directory
- Children’s Discovery Depot
- Union Pacific #4017 “Big Boy”
- Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Pullman Porters
- Pennsylvania Railroad #4890
- General Motors Aerotrain
- Bauer Drumhead Gallery
- 2024 Exhibit: Railroad Tools: Building for our Future
- Joseph Lister Hospital Car
- Traveling Display: Buddy "L"
- Rolling Stock
- PAW Patrol Paw-Palooza
- Dinner Train
- The Great Pumpkin Train
The Polar Express Train Ride
- Holidays On The Rails
- Festival of Trees
- Rails & Ales Brewfest
- Mystery Express
- The Great Bunny Train
- Children’s Birthday Parties
- Celebrations
- Corporate Events
- Photography Sessions
- Capital Campaign
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- Railroading Merit Badge
- Youth / School Tours
- Railroad STEM Programs
- Railroad Bridge Engineering
- A Day In The Life
- A Night In The Hobo Jungle
- High-Speed Rail Design
- Summer Railroad Camps
- Outreach Programs
- At-Home Activities
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Tickets for the Polar Express Train Ride go on sale July 27, at 10:00 a.m.
Tickets can only be purchased through Ticket Star !
![polar express bus trip](https://nationalrrmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Polar-Express-Train-Ride.jpg)
November 22-December 15, 202 4
The National Railroad Museum will present The Polar Express Train Ride on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from November 22 through December 15, 2024. The Polar Express has become a time-honored holiday tradition for people throughout Wisconsin and beyond.
Tickets for 2024 shows will go on sale July 27, 2024 at 10:00 AM. Tickets can only be purchased through Ticket Star either online or over the phone. In 2023, tickets for all 40 shows (12,400+ seats) sold out in less than 4 hours.
For general reference about the event and FAQs, please click here. Details may change for the 2024 shows.
The Polar Express is a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story. Following the original book and movie, you will be immersed in the Polar Express story. When you arrive at the Museum, you enter our Lenfestey Center. Before the show, you are welcome to stroll among the decorated trees in the Festival of Trees, explore the full-size trains, or play Reindeer Games.
The show begins with the Hot Chocolate Dance, after which we all sip a cup of hot chocolate. Next, we listen to a dramatic reading of the original Polar Express book. Our conductor then calls “All Aboard,” inviting guests outside to ride The Polar Express to the North Pole.
Onboard a real, moving train, our adventure continues as you interact with the characters from the story. This is not a train ride where you will see holiday decorations every inch of the way – instead, we will travel through cold, dark forests, encounter a hobo, view the Northern Lights, and see polar bears in the Arctic Circle. Santa will visit with some of the passengers onboard the train.
Once we arrive at the North Pole, those who did not visit with Santa on the train will have time to see him before he heads around the world on Christmas Eve.
Justin Lambrecht, Education Director: (920) 437-7623 or [email protected]
Photo Gallery | The Polar Express Train Ride
![polar express bus trip](https://nationalrrmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NRM®_logo-color-5.png)
2285 S. Broadway Green Bay, Wis. 54304 (920) 437-7623 [email protected]
National Railroad Museum
Please select an arrival date.
Please select a departure date.
Please select a return date.
Make Your Reservation
Book your adventure.
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- Children 0 1 2 3 4
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- Children 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
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2024 Polar Express
The childhood Christmas classic comes to life at the Grand Canyon Railway
- The Ultimate Polar Express Experience
Experience The Ultimate Polar Express Experience aboard your own private charter train to the North Pole!
Hotel Packages Available
Fully embrace the holiday spirit with an overnight stay in our winter wonderland in addition to your trip to the North Pole.
Polar Express
- Reservation Type Tickets only Packages
- Adults (Age 16+): 1 2 3 4 5 6
- Children (2-15): 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
- Steam Saturdays
- Polar Express 2024
- Polar Reservation Policies
All Aboard to the North Pole!
Every winter the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express comes to life on a journey from the nighttime wilderness of Williams, Arizona, to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole”—where Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a keepsake present for every good boy and girl. You’ll be smiling from ear to ear, as you watch children’s faces light up when the train arrives, and enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies while listening to this timeless story.
Make this a family holiday tradition, and call today to make your reservations (because space is limited to those who truly believe in the spirit of Christmas). The ride lasts a little over an hour, with the train leaving each night at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
TOTAL ROUND-TRIP TIME: Approximately 90 minutes.
BOOK POLAR EXPRESS 2024
Schedule & Pricing
The 2024 polar express train ride.
Here is a very special chance for you and the entire family to experience the magic of The Polar Express™, the classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg.
![polar express bus trip Polar Express - REVISED](https://www.thetrain.com/content/uploads/2020/07/polar-express-revised-900x600.jpg)
The Polar Express Package
A true Polar Express adventure including tickets to the North Pole, accommodations at the Railway Hotel, and meals for everyone! There’s no better way to bundle and save 10% on your adventure to the North Pole. The package features:
- Overnight stay for 1-night in a hotel room or suite
- One dinner in the Fred Harvey Restaurant per person
- One breakfast in the Fred Harvey Restaurant per person
- Roundtrip tickets for the Polar Express train
- Memories to last a lifetime
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we get to williams.
Williams is located about 30 miles west of Flagstaff along Interstate 40. If you’re coming from Phoenix, take I-17 north to Flagstaff. As you get close to the city you can take I-40 west to Williams. Look for Exit 163, exit and go south on Grand Canyon Blvd about a 1/2 mile. The property will be on the west side of the street. From Phoenix, the trip is about 2 and a half hours, but could take a little longer depending on weather conditions.To learn about current driving conditions, visit ADOT’s website with up-to-date conditions. If the roads are closed near Flagstaff, consider taking I-17 north and exit at Cherry Road on Highway 169 toward Prescott, which will eventually merge with Highway 69. Drive through Prescott and look for Highway 89 going north through Chino Valley. You’ll end up on I-40, just west of Williams. Simply make a right on I-40 and travel about 19 miles until you see Exit 163.
Once we arrive in Williams, where do we pick up our tickets?
If you booked a Polar Express package, you will receive your train tickets upon check-in at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel front desk. Will call train tickets will be distributed at the ticket counter inside the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, located next to the Fred Harvey Restaurant. The guest who was responsible for payment will need to present a photo I.D. to receive train tickets.
How far in advance of our departure should we arrive?
Train Only Guests
We recommend arriving at least one hour before departure. This should provide enough time to pick up tickets at will-call and be ready to board The Polar Express. The train will begin boarding 15 minutes before departure. You can certainly pick up your tickets earlier. Tickets will be available at noon (12:00 PM) on the day of your departure.
Polar Family Package Guests
The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is conveniently located adjacent to the Williams Depot. You can begin checking in at the hotel at 3:00 p.m. Upon check in you will be issued both your train and meal tickets. Dinner and breakfast at the Fred Harvey Restaurant, also located next to the hotel, is included in your package. If you’re on the 5:30 p.m. departure, we recommend arriving to Williams around 4:00 so you can check-in, pick up your train tickets and have plenty of time for dinner.
What can we bring with us on the train?
The passenger cars have luggage racks near the ceiling so feel free to bring coats, diaper bags, camera bags, backpacks and anything else you need. Even though the cars have luggage racks, we recommend only bringing what you really need on the train. Strollers can be parked outside the depot. There is a limited amount of space in the vestibules (between the cars) on the train, but we recommend parking strollers by the depot as there are plenty of covered areas. Also, all families are encouraged to bring their own copy of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg to read along to the story during the journey. Brand new copies are available for purchase at the Depot and Fred Harvey Restaurant Gift Shops.
What are the seating arrangements?
Seats on board The Polar Express are bench-style, with two passengers per bench. Booking seats in even numbers is strongly recommended. If your family is traveling with another family on a separate reservation and would like to be seated together, please contact Central Reservations at 1-888-848-3511. While we do our very best to honor all seating requests on board The Polar Express, we cannot always guarantee them.
What else is there to do in Williams?
Other activities at Grand Canyon Railway include story time with Mrs. Claus and pictures with Mr. C in the Polar Room. Also, have your kids stand on the patented Naughty or Nice Meter™ to see if they might be expecting a lump of coal in their stockings! Be sure to visit with our staff Elves and Hobo, who will be wandering around the Platform throughout the evening. In fact, if you’re around the Hobo’s campsite 45min prior to departure you might see him sharing some hobo wisdom with Polar Express passengers.
I have a package with meals - what are the hours of The Fred Harvey Restaurant?
During Polar Express, the restaurant will be open for dinner from 3:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m. Breakfast will be open at 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The full buffet is available during Polar Express nights, as well as special desserts made just for the holidays! No alcoholic beverages are permitted aboard The Polar Express. Adult beverages are available at The Fred Harvey Restaurant and inside the hotel at Spenser’s Pub.
Where do we park?
Parking is free and is available around the hotel and depot complex. There is a parking lot east of Grand Canyon Blvd. as you enter the Railway’s complex as well as parking west of the hotel. You may want to budget a few minutes extra to find parking as there will be as many 3,000 people on property.
I have mobility restrictions. What are my options?
Due to the age of the equipment not all rail cars are ADA accessible. Please contact our Central Reservations Department for arrangements at least 7 days prior to arrive so we may make arrangements for your family.
What time zone is Arizona in?
Arizona is always in Mountain Standard Time.
Is alcohol allowed?
No alcoholic beverages are allowed onboard the Polar Express
Are the cookies and hot cocoa dairy/gluten/nut free?
No; however if guests would like to bring their own special items they may.
My question isn't answered above, can you help?
If you have additional questions, please contact us via email at [email protected]
Terms & Conditions
Hotel package rates are based on adult double occupancy, and do not include tax. Train-only tickets are per person, and prices do not include tax. Valid for travel from 11/09/23 – 12/30/23. Rates subject to change without notice. Cancellations for Polar Express train only reservations are non-refundable, and cancellations for Polar Express packages are subject to the forfeiture of 50% of the deposit. Cancellations are considered to be a reduction to the number of guests or a cancellation of the entire reservation.
Get Your Tickets or call 1-888-848-3511
TM & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s23)
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