Christmas train rides for families.
Santa trains, trolley rides, and holiday train shows in 19 US cities, plus every licensed Polar Express train ride we found for 2026.
Every ride was checked on the railroad's or museum's own site, with notes on ages, lap children, strollers, and booking.
Tips for going with kids
- Pick a daytime or early ride for toddlers. Evening trains run past bedtime.
- Check the stroller rule before you go. Many trains don't allow strollers on board, so plan on a carrier or holding hands.
- Arrive early. Many rides ask you to come 45-60 minutes ahead, and late families can't board.
- Bring a small snack and a quiet toy for the wait on the platform.
Santa trains and holiday trains by city
32 events
- Holiday trains Good for toddlers
Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden
- Dates
- Nov 14 - Jan 10 · Daytime, most days. Select evenings open until 8pm.
- Where
- Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, New York Botanical Garden, Bronx (New York)
- Price
- Paid, prices vary by day. Under 2 free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy timed tickets online ahead, especially for weekends
Model trains run past small copies of New York buildings made from plant parts. It all sits inside a big glass greenhouse, so it stays warm.
Parent tip: Sensory-friendly mornings run Sat, Nov 21 and Sat, Jan 9, 9-11am, with the music and videos off.
- Holiday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Train Show at Grand Central (New York Transit Museum)
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Feb 28 · Opens Fri, Nov 13. Weekdays 10am-7:30pm, weekends 10am-6pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Check the museum site for the last day.
- Where
- New York Transit Museum Gallery, Grand Central Terminal, Midtown East (New York)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Toy trains run on a big two-level track, from a tiny Grand Central to the North Pole. Small models of New York buildings line the way.
Parent tip: It is a short stop, so pair it with the Holiday Fair in the same station.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Happy Holiday Railway at the Illinois Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 21 · Nov 27-29, Dec 5-6, 12-13, 19-20 and Dec 21. Trains leave from late morning into the evening.
- Where
- Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union, IL (far northwest suburbs) (Chicago)
- Price
- Tickets needed for everyone 2 and up. Under 2 free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy ahead online. Arrive 30 minutes before your train.
A decorated train ride with Santa on board, plus treats and hot chocolate. The museum grounds have light displays and a model railroad too.
Parent tip: If bright lights and loud music upset your child, ask for the quiet car.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa's Trolley Express at the Fox River Trolley Museum
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 20 · Sat-Sun Nov 28-Dec 20 from 10:30am. Also Fri evenings Dec 4, 11 and 18.
- Where
- Blackhawk Station, Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve, South Elgin (far western suburbs) (Chicago)
- Price
- Ticketed. Everyone needs a ticket, babies included.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Pick a time slot and buy ahead online. All sales are final.
A holiday ride on vintage trolley cars, with a story and sing-alongs. Santa climbs aboard and visits each family.
Parent tip: Trains leave from Blackhawk Station, about two miles south of the museum. You wait in a heated car with hot chocolate and cookies.
- Christmas lightsHoliday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Edaville Winter Wonderland
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 27 · Fri 4-9pm, Sat 2-9pm, Sun 3-7:30pm
- Where
- Edaville Family Theme Park, Carver (South Shore) (Boston)
- Price
- Paid, buy tickets online
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy tickets online ahead
A small family park lit up for the season. Kids can ride the holiday train and meet Santa.
Parent tip: Come at opening on a Saturday or Sunday to see it in daylight and after dark.
- Holiday festivalsChristmas lightsHoliday trains Good for toddlers
Festival of Trees at Elm Bank
- Dates
- Nov 25 - Dec 28 · Wed-Sun from Nov 25, plus extra school-vacation days. Closes 7:30pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Where
- The Garden at Elm Bank, 900 Washington St, Wellesley (west of Boston) (Boston)
- Price
- Adults $24-$29, kids 3-17 $8-$10, 2 and under free (free ticket still needed)
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Timed tickets online ahead. None sold at the door.
Decorated trees fill the rooms, and you can enter a raffle to win one. Model trains run through a small snowy village.
Parent tip: Cocoa on arrival and a s'mores kit come with each paid ticket. Use the outdoor fire pits to toast them.
- Holiday trainsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Season's Greenings at the US Botanic Garden
- Dates
- Nov 26 - Jan 3 · Daily 10am-5pm, Nov 26-Jan 3 (closed Dec 25). Open to 8pm on Dec 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 29.
- Where
- US Botanic Garden, National Mall, by the Capitol (Washington, DC)
- Price
- Free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up, no tickets
Model trains run past national parks and landmarks made from plant parts. Inside, the glass house has a DC landmarks display and poinsettias.
Parent tip: The trains are outdoors and may stop in bad weather. Check the news before you go: federal sites can close if the government shuts down.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Holly TrolleyFest at the National Capital Trolley Museum
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 23 · Saturdays and Sundays from Nov 28; listing runs to Dec 23. 10:30am-5pm.
- Where
- National Capital Trolley Museum, 1313 Bonifant Rd, Colesville, Maryland (Washington, DC)
- Price
- $15 per person
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Reservations required; museum passes not accepted
Ride a historic streetcar on the museum's woodland track. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit, and there's a holiday model train display and kids' crafts.
Parent tip: It's a daytime event, so it suits young kids who can't stay up for light shows. Book once tickets open.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
VRE Santa Trains
- Dates
- Dec 12 · Sat, Dec 12; see the official schedule for train times
- Where
- Virginia Railway Express trains, Northern Virginia stations, including Woodbridge, Burke Centre and Manassas (Washington, DC)
- Price
- See the official site
- Ages and booking
- All ages; every rider needs a ticket, even babies · Online only from Nov 30 at 10am; limit 6 per person; no refunds
Santa, Mrs. Claus and elves ride a commuter train to meet kids. Helpers hand out candy canes and coloring books, with a train safety message.
Parent tip: Tickets go fast, so be ready on Nov 30 at 10am. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate at the station.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa Railway Express
- Dates
- Dec 7-21 · Mon, Dec 7; Mon, Dec 14; Thu, Dec 17; Mon, Dec 21. Leaves 1:30pm, back about 4:30pm.
- Where
- King Street Station to Old Town Manassas, Old Town Alexandria, Virginia (Washington, DC)
- Price
- $29.99 per person
- Ages and booking
- All ages; babies need a ticket too · In person only at Whistle Stop Hobbies in Alexandria; 200 riders per trip
A round-trip train ride with Mr. and Mrs. Claus on board. In Manassas, kids get cocoa, cookies, a story and time to ask Santa questions.
Parent tip: Trips are on weekday afternoons, so it suits preschoolers. Tickets are sold only in the shop, so plan a stop there.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa Express at the Tennessee Central Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 19 · Saturdays Nov 28, Dec 5, Dec 12 and Dec 19. The trip takes about 1.5 hours.
- Where
- Tennessee Central Railway Museum, 220 Willow St., Nashville (Nashville)
- Price
- Ticketed. See the museum site for prices.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy ahead online
The local railway museum runs Santa-themed train trips on four Saturdays before Christmas.
Parent tip: With only four dates, these can sell out. Book as soon as you know your Saturday.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa Trains at the Northwest Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 20 · North Pole Limited: weekends Nov 28-Dec 20, from North Bend. Yuletide Express: Fridays Dec 4, 11 and 18, from Snoqualmie. Trains leave hourly from 9am.
- Where
- North Bend Depot and Snoqualmie Depot, North Bend and Snoqualmie, east of Seattle (Seattle)
- Price
- $39 (North Pole Limited) or $30 (Yuletide Express). Under 2 free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy online ahead. These trains sell out, and there are no refunds.
A historic train takes families to meet Santa, and each child gets a small gift. The North Pole Limited takes about 2 hours with cookies; the Yuletide Express is a 40-minute ride.
Parent tip: The trains have no restrooms. Use them before you board, and arrive 25 minutes early.
- Holiday festivalsHoliday trainsChristmas lightsFree Good for toddlers
Seattle Center Winterfest
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 31 · Daily. Model train 10am-6pm (4pm on Dec 24, closed Dec 25). Ice carving Saturdays at noon until Dec 19.
- Where
- Armory and grounds, Seattle Center, Seattle Center (Lower Queen Anne) (Seattle)
- Price
- Free. Donations help keep the train running.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Seattle Center's free holiday season. Kids can run a big model train, watch ice carvers and see the lights after dark.
Parent tip: The train hall is indoors and warm on a rainy day. The Christmas Market is right next door.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
North Pole Limited train ride
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 20 · Fri-Sun, Nov 27-Dec 20; late-afternoon and evening trains
- Where
- Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, Campo Depot, Campo, East County (about an hour's drive) (San Diego)
- Price
- Prices vary by seat class; babies under 1 on a lap ride free
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy tickets ahead
A 90-minute holiday train ride through the backcountry. Elves lead songs, hand out cocoa and cookies, and Santa gets on board.
Parent tip: Campo is a long drive and cold at night. Pack pajamas and a blanket so kids can sleep on the ride home.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsHoliday trains Good for toddlers
Christmas in the Park at Old Poway Park
- Dates
- Dec 11-12 · Fri, Dec 11 and Sat, Dec 12, 3:30-8:30pm. Tree lighting 6pm.
- Where
- Old Poway Park, Poway, North County inland (San Diego)
- Price
- Santa visit tickets $5; see the official site for other costs
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up; get a Santa return time at the booth from 3:30pm
Santa arrives by train, then the park lights its tree. There is live music, a craft fair and night rides on the park's small railroad.
Parent tip: Get your Santa ticket as soon as the booth opens. Use the free shuttles from Poway City Hall.
- Holiday trainsSanta visitsChristmas lights Good for toddlers
Christmas Train and Santa's Village, Irvine Park Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 23 · Nov 27-Dec 23. Weekdays 4-9pm, weekends 10am-9pm. Daily 10am-9pm from Dec 14.
- Where
- Irvine Park Railroad, Irvine Regional Park, Orange (Orange County) (Los Angeles)
- Price
- $22-$37 per ticket by time slot, plus a $5 online fee. Under 2 free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Online only. Sales open Nov 2 at 10am. Slots sell out. No refunds.
A short train ride to a North Pole stop where kids meet Santa. Back at the station, a free village has games and crafts.
Parent tip: Daytime slots cost the least. The train is not fully closed in, so bring a rain jacket if it looks wet.
- Holiday trainsChristmas lights Good for toddlers
Train of Lights, Irvine Park Railroad
- Dates
- Dec 26-30 · Dec 26-30, 5-9pm.
- Where
- Irvine Park Railroad, Irvine Regional Park, Orange (Orange County) (Los Angeles)
- Price
- $11-$17 per ticket by time slot. Under 2 free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Online only. Sales open Dec 7 at 10am. Slots sell out. No refunds.
An evening train loop of about a mile past holiday lights, in the days after Christmas.
Parent tip: Santa is not there on these nights. Later time slots cost less.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa and Mrs. Santa Arrive by Train
- Dates
- Nov 21 · Sat Nov 21, 11am-3pm. The Santa train pulls in at 11am.
- Where
- Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth (Atlanta)
- Price
- Museum admission: $19 adults, $13 kids 2-12
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy museum tickets online or at the gate
Santa and Mrs. Claus roll in on a train, then pose for family photos. Kids can ride the museum's trains and see the holiday decorations.
Parent tip: Regular admission includes one train ride. Extra rides cost more, so buy them at the booth if your kids want another.
- Holiday festivalsHoliday trains Good for toddlers
Festival of 100 Trees at the Southeastern Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 19 - Jan 3 · Thu-Sun, 10am-5pm, Nov 19-Jan 3
- Where
- Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth (Atlanta)
- Price
- Museum admission: $19 adults, $13 kids 2-12
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy museum tickets online or at the gate
At least 100 trees, each decorated by a local group, fill the train museum. Kids can climb around old trains too.
Parent tip: The museum is only open Thursday to Sunday, so plan a weekend visit.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa's Railroad Wonderland at the Texas Transportation Museum
- Dates
- Dec 5-20 · Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20. 5:30-9pm, last entry 8pm.
- Where
- Texas Transportation Museum, 11731 Wetmore Rd., North side (San Antonio)
- Price
- Adults $15, kids 4-12 $12. Under 4 free but still need a ticket. Parking free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy online ahead. Only a few tickets are sold at the door.
A small train museum decorates its depot and model railroads for the holidays. Kids ride the train and visit Santa for free photos.
Parent tip: Train rides run on demand. Arrive near the 5:30pm opening, since last entry is 8pm.
- Santa visitsHoliday trains Good for toddlers
Santa Trolley at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 20 · Nov 27, 28, 29 and Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 9am-5pm.
- Where
- Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA (Pittsburgh)
- Price
- See the official site
- Ages and booking
- All ages · See the official site for tickets
Ride a vintage trolley with Santa, then see toy train displays and warm up with hot chocolate and cookies.
Parent tip: A sensory-friendly Santa Trolley runs Sun Nov 29, with dimmer lights, quieter sound and fewer riders.
- Holiday trains Good for toddlers
Trolleys and Toy Trains
- Dates
- Dec 3-26 · Dec 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18 and 26, 10am-4pm.
- Where
- Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA (Pittsburgh)
- Price
- See the official site
- Ages and booking
- All ages · See the official site for tickets
Holiday days at the trolley museum with a big Lionel toy train layout and a LEGO display.
Parent tip: Most of these dates are Thursdays and Fridays, handy if Santa Trolley weekends don't fit.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsHoliday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Holiday Nights Celebration at Sunset Walk
- Dates
- Nov 19 - Dec 25 · Nov 19-22, Nov 27-29, Dec 3-6, Dec 10-13 and Dec 17-25, 6-10pm. Tree lights up at 6:30pm.
- Where
- Promenade at Sunset Walk, 3251 Margaritaville Blvd., Kissimmee (Orlando)
- Price
- Free admission and parking. Train rides $8.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up. Buy ride tickets only through the organiser's Eventbrite.
An outdoor shopping area puts on nightly snow, a 40-foot animated tree, Santa and a small train ride.
Parent tip: Arrive before 6:30pm to see the tree light up.
- Parades and tree lightingsChristmas lightsHoliday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Kannapolis Tree Lighting and Celebration of Lights
- Dates
- Nov 13-15 · Tree lighting and fireworks Fri Nov 13, 6:30-8:30pm. Celebration of Lights and Winterland Express Sat-Sun Nov 14-15, 5:30-7:30pm.
- Where
- Village Park, 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis (about 28 miles northeast of Charlotte) (Charlotte)
- Price
- Free to walk the park lights. Winterland Express train rides $2.50.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
Kannapolis starts its season with a tree lighting and fireworks, then a weekend of park lights and rides on the little Winterland Express train.
Parent tip: Pack layers, since it's all outside after dark. The Saturday and Sunday light nights end at 7:30pm, which suits early bedtimes.
- Holiday festivalsSanta visitsHoliday trains Good for toddlers
Holiday Reflections at Union Station
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 4 · Daily 10am-8pm, last entry an hour before close. Closed Nov 26 and Dec 25. Dec 4 and 11 close at 6pm. Dec 24 closes at 2pm.
- Where
- Union Station, Grand Plaza, Crown Center / Union Station (Kansas City)
- Price
- $10 Mon-Thu, $12 Fri-Sun and Dec 21-Jan 4, plus a 10% fee. Babies 12 months and under free.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Timed tickets, card or online only. Buy ahead. All sales are final.
An indoor walk-through holiday village with model trains and a new frozen winter area with igloos. Santa walks around inside from 10am to 2pm through Dec 24. Plan on 45-60 minutes.
Parent tip: Kids under 48 inches can ride the mini train for $5 more. Food and drinks aren't allowed inside, and kids can't wear Santa or character costumes.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Santa's North Pole Express
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 30 · Daily boarding times from 10am to 8pm. No trains Dec 24-25. On Dec 3 trains leave from the Fort Worth Stockyards instead.
- Where
- Grapevine Vintage Railroad, 705 S. Main St., Grapevine (Historic Main Street) (Dallas)
- Price
- From about $90 for a two-person bench. Lap kids under 2 about $6.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy only from the official sellers. Seats are sold by the two-person bench, so a family of three buys four seats.
A ride in old train cars with carols, elves, Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kids get a cookie and chocolate milk in a keepsake mug, and each family gets one photo with Santa.
Parent tip: Check-in opens 20 minutes before boarding, and the doors close 5 minutes before. Come early to see the Christmas Market by the depot.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
North Pole Flyer (Austin Steam Train)
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 13 · Nov 28-29, Dec 5-6 and Dec 12-13. Rides at 8:30am, noon and 3:30pm, plus 7pm on Saturdays.
- Where
- Bertram Depot, 100 W. State Hwy 29, Bertram (Hill Country, northwest of Austin) (Austin)
- Price
- Coach $57, Lounge $67 per seat. Kids under 3 on a lap $12.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy ahead online
A 2-hour round-trip train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus, carols, a Christmas story, hot cocoa and a cookie.
Parent tip: Kids under 13 get a wooden train whistle and coloring sheets. Bring a snack for the drive out to Bertram.
- Christmas lightsSanta visitsHoliday trainsFree Good for toddlers
Trail of Lights at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 26 · Nightly from 6pm, until 9 or 10pm. Dec 24-25 walking trail only.
- Where
- EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley (about 50 minutes southwest of Austin) (Austin)
- Price
- Free. A $20 donation per family is suggested.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Walk up
A walking trail through about 8 acres of lit displays, with free marshmallows and hot cocoa by the yule log. Santa is there most nights.
Parent tip: A small train runs 6-8pm on select nights, but not in rain. Park at the nearby schools and use the lit walkway.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
The Magical Christmas Journey (Verde Canyon Railroad)
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 24 · Nov 27-Dec 24. Check the train schedule for departure times.
- Where
- Verde Canyon Railroad depot, 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale (about 2 hours north of Phoenix) (Phoenix)
- Price
- Adults $60, ages 2-10 $40 (Dec 24: $70 and $50). Babies under 1 ride free on a lap.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Book ahead online. Booking early saves money.
A 1-hour round-trip train ride to a pretend North Pole. Santa boards for the ride back, talks with each child and hands out a keepsake.
Parent tip: It's a long drive from Phoenix, so make it a day trip and arrive early for the elves and activities at the depot.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits
North Pole Express at the Florida Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 22 · Select evenings Nov 27-29 and Dec 2-22. Most nights leave at 5:15pm and 7:15pm.
- Where
- Florida Railroad Museum, 12210 83rd St. E., Parrish, Manatee County (about 35 miles south of Tampa) (Tampa)
- Price
- Prices change by date, departure time, seat type and age. See the official site.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy ahead online. Tickets can't be refunded unless you buy refund protection when you book.
A 45-minute train ride to a North Pole stop, where kids visit Santa and each child gets a gift. Cookies and hot chocolate are unlimited.
Parent tip: The whole trip takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes, so pick the 5:15pm train for young kids. Strollers and car seats can't go on the train. Babies under 1 ride free on a lap with a lap-rider ticket.
- Zoo lightsSanta visitsHoliday trains Good for toddlers
PNC Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo
- Dates
- Nov 19 - Jan 3 · Daily Nov 19-Jan 3. The zoo stays open until 9pm Sun-Thu and 10pm Fri-Sat. Closed Nov 26, Dec 24 and Dec 25.
- Where
- Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Avondale (central Cincinnati) (Cincinnati)
- Price
- Included with zoo admission. See the official site for ticket prices. The train and carousel cost extra.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy zoo tickets online ahead.
The zoo lights up for its 44th holiday season. Walk the lit paths, ride the holiday train and catch a puppet show at night.
Parent tip: Santa is in Santa's Village from 4pm every day, and his last night is Dec 23. The zoo also runs a sensory-friendly Santa visit that you sign up for on its site.
- Holiday trainsSanta visits Good for toddlers
Holiday Junction featuring the Duke Energy Holiday Trains
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Jan 4 · Daily Nov 13-Jan 4 during museum hours (10am-5pm, with longer hours on some days).
- Where
- Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, Queensgate (west edge of downtown) (Cincinnati)
- Price
- Included with museum admission. Free for members. See the official site for prices.
- Ages and booking
- All ages · Buy museum tickets online ahead.
The big model train layout is back for its 80th season. Kids can do a scavenger hunt in the layout, pose by the Northern Lights and visit Santa by his fireplace.
Parent tip: Santa arrives by fire truck on Fri Nov 27 at noon. Deaf Day with Santa is Dec 6 (2-5pm), and a visit with Black Santa is Dec 16 (10am-5pm).
Dates and prices were checked on each event's official site. They can change, so check the official site before you go.
The Polar Express train rides
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Williams, AZ
Grand Canyon Railway
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Jan 3 · Select nights, Nov 6-Jan 3, at 5:30 and 7:30 pm (Arizona time)
- Depot
- Williams Depot, behind the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
- Price
- Adults (16+) $64.99-$84.99, kids 2-15 $49.99-$69.99 by date, plus tax; hotel packages sold too
- Length
- About 90 minutes round trip
- Included
- Hot chocolate and cookies, the story, and a stop to see Santa and his reindeer at the North Pole
A night train leaves Williams for a pretend North Pole and comes back in about 90 minutes. Kids hear the story, get cocoa and a cookie, and see Santa. The train does not go to the Grand Canyon.
Booking: Train-only riders should arrive about 90 minutes early. Strollers can be parked outside the depot, since the train has little room for them. Not every car is wheelchair accessible.
Parent tip: Holiday-rate nights cost $20 more per adult than value nights. Most early and mid-November dates are value nights.
Jamestown, CA
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 20 · Fridays to Sundays, Nov 27-Dec 20, at 4:30, 6:00 and 7:30 pm
- Depot
- Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
- Price
- $85 per person in coach, fees included
- Length
- About 1 hour
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on an adult's lap (no ticket needed)
- Included
- Train ride, hot chocolate and a treat, park entry to pick up your Golden Ticket, and a visit with Santa in the Roundhouse
A one-hour weekend ride at a state historic rail park. After the ride, kids meet Santa in the old Roundhouse. Pajamas are welcome.
Booking: Arrive at least 1 hour early to park. Strollers go in the stroller parking area in the Ticket Office. No restrooms on the train. No refunds or exchanges.
Parent tip: There are no bathrooms on board. Take little ones to the restrooms on the depot deck before you line up.
Perris, CA
Southern California Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 11 - Dec 31 · Select days, Nov 11-Dec 31; afternoon and evening rides
- Depot
- Southern California Railway Museum, 2201 South A St
- Price
- Adults $56.25-$88.25, kids 2-11 $49.25-$81.25 by date, fees included; parking $6 per car
- Length
- Train show about 1 hour; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket at checkout and add the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a shortbread cookie, a reading of the book, Santa with the first gift of Christmas, and caroling on the way back
A one-hour ride at a large rail museum in Riverside County, with the book read on board and Santa handing out bells. Plan on about 2 hours from parking to the end.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime to park and check in. The box office closes at showtime and no one boards after that. The platform is not heated. Sensory-friendly rides Nov 24 at 4 and 6 pm.
Parent tip: Value-price rides run mostly on weeknights in mid-November. They cost $32 less per adult than premium nights.
Sacramento, CA
California State Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 21 · Select November days, then Wednesdays to Mondays after Thanksgiving, Nov 13-Dec 21; 3:30, 5:00, 6:30 and 8:00 pm
- Depot
- Central Pacific Passenger Station, 930 Front St, Old Sacramento
- Price
- Coach $80-$85, First Class $100-$110 per person; table cars $320-$440 for four; fees included
- Length
- About 1 hour on the train
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on an adult's lap (no ticket needed)
- Included
- Train ride, entry to the passenger station pre-show, and entry to the Eagle Theater to meet Santa
A one-hour ride from Old Sacramento with a short show in the station before you board. After the ride, families meet Santa at a nearby theater.
Booking: Arrive at least 1 hour early. The pre-boarding show starts 35 minutes before departure. Strollers and baby carriers are not allowed on the train; they are watched in the station. Missed trains can't be rebooked.
Parent tip: The station is covered but not heated. Put a warm layer over the pajamas for the wait.
Durango, CO
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 2 · Most nights, Nov 20-Jan 2 (none on Thanksgiving, Christmas or a few early-December weeknights); 4:55, 6:30 and 8:00 pm, some 9:10 pm
- Depot
- Durango Depot, 479 Main Ave
- Price
- Coach from $42.12 adult, $31.32 child (2-11); Deluxe and First Class cost more, up to $100.44
- Length
- About 65 minutes; allow 2 hours in all
- Included
- Hot cocoa and a cookie, a reading of the book, and Santa handing out the first gift of Christmas on the way back; Deluxe and First Class add a souvenir mug and tote
A 65-minute narrow gauge ride out of downtown Durango. Staff sing and dance in the aisles, and Santa gives each rider a gift on the way back.
Booking: Tickets are sold online ahead of time. Cars are heated, but the North Pole air is cold, so dress in layers.
Parent tip: Value nights fall mostly in late November, on a few early-December weeknights and on Dec 28-29. Peak nights near Christmas cost about $25 more per adult in coach.
Golden, CO
Colorado Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 23 · Select November evenings, then nightly Nov 27-Dec 23; shows at 5:00, 6:30 and 8:00 pm
- Depot
- Colorado Railroad Museum, 17155 W. 44th Ave
- Price
- Standard $80 (ages 2-15), $100 (16+); First Class $475-$505 per table of four; 10% off before Thanksgiving
- Length
- About 2 to 2½ hours in all, including the pre-show and Santa
- Lap children
- Under 2 free as a lap rider; lap riders don't get their own seat
- Included
- Hot cocoa, a cookie and a silver bell; a live retelling of the story in the pavilion; Santa hands out the first gift of Christmas and offers a visit after the ride
The evening starts with a short live show in a heated pavilion, then a steam train ride to the North Pole. Kids get cocoa, a cookie and a bell, and can see Santa after.
Booking: Arrive 30-45 minutes before showtime, but not more than 1 hour early. Free parking on site. Tickets have sold out ahead every year since 2020.
Parent tip: Pick a show before Thanksgiving to save 10% and to have a better chance at tickets.
Monticello, IL
Monticello Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 6 · Fridays to Sundays, Nov 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 and Dec 4-6, at 5:00, 6:30 and 8:00 pm (no 8:00 pm train on Sundays)
- Depot
- Wabash Depot, 200 E. Livingston St., downtown Monticello (not the museum grounds)
- Price
- Coach $48, Special Coach $60 (ages 2 and up); Deluxe $340 per table of 4; private cars cost more. Sold out for 2026
- Length
- About 1 hour round trip
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride on an adult's lap or with their own ticket
- Included
- Story read-along, hot chocolate and a treat, caroling, and Santa with a sleigh bell for each child on the way back. Special Coach adds a mug
A one-hour round trip from the old Wabash Depot in downtown Monticello. Kids follow the story, drink cocoa, sing carols and get a bell from Santa on the ride back.
Booking: Tickets are ready at the depot from 3:30 pm on your day. Arrive at least 30 minutes early. All seats are assigned. Email the museum with ticket questions instead of calling.
Parent tip: All 2026 tickets are already sold out. Sales for the next season usually open on a summer weekend, so watch the museum's site.
French Lick, IN
French Lick Scenic Railway
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 23 · Select dates, Nov 6-Dec 23, with shows at 12:30, 2:30, 5:30 or 7:30 pm
- Depot
- French Lick depot, 8594 West State Road 56
- Price
- $47-$117 by date (value, moderate and peak nights)
- Length
- About 65 minutes
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free (the railroad's general rule; confirm when you book)
- Included
- Ticket punch, hot chocolate and cookies, the story read aloud, Santa giving each guest a silver sleigh bell, and carols on the way back
A 65-minute ride from the French Lick depot to the North Pole and back. Chefs serve cocoa and cookies, Santa hands out bells, and elves lead songs on the return trip.
Booking: Buy tickets ahead; there are no walk-ups. The depot opens at least 2 hours before the train. Boarding starts about 15 minutes before, and the train does not wait. The show uses flashing lights.
Parent tip: Most 2026 shows were sold out by late October. Check the calendar for single open seats, and look at Sunday evening and early November dates first.
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
- Dates
- Dec 11-31 · Daily Dec 11-31 except Christmas; rides from 10 am to 6:40 pm
- Depot
- Union Passenger Terminal, 1001 Loyola Ave
- Price
- Adults $78-$99.25, kids 2-11 $69.50-$90.50 by date, fees included
- Length
- About 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket at checkout and add the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a shortbread cookie, a reading of the book, Santa with the first gift of Christmas, and caroling on the way back
A December-only ride from the city's main train station, with morning and afternoon times that work for nap schedules. The book is read on board and Santa hands out bells.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime. The box office closes at showtime. Find your own parking near the station. Sensory-friendly ride Dec 18 at 10 am.
Parent tip: Morning rides suit babies and toddlers best. Value-price times are mostly late-morning and early-afternoon rides, Dec 14-18 and Dec 28-31.
Buzzards Bay, MA
Cape Cod Central Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 23 · Select dates, Nov 20-Dec 23, with daytime matinee and evening trains
- Depot
- Buzzards Bay station, 70 Main Street (not Hyannis)
- Price
- Standard Class $69 child / $79 adult in the evening, $54 / $64 for matinees; lower on opening weekend (Nov 20-22); First Class from $89 / $99; table classes sold by the whole table
- Length
- About 1.5 hours round trip
- Lap children
- Lap babies need a $10 Babe-in-Arms ticket, one per paying adult
- Included
- Hot chocolate, shortbread cookies, a sleigh bell, a souvenir golden ticket and a visit from Santa, who greets each child on the way back. Some classes add a mug or tumbler
A 1.5-hour round trip from Buzzards Bay. Riders get cocoa and cookies, hear the story, and meet Santa, who hands each child a keepsake on the ride home.
Booking: Arrive 45-60 minutes early. Boarding starts 30 minutes before, and the train cannot wait for late riders. All sales are final.
Parent tip: Matinee trips run in daylight and cost less, which can suit toddlers who go to bed early.
Baltimore, MD
National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation (formerly B&O Railroad Museum)
- Dates
- Nov 28 - Dec 22 · Nov 28-29, Dec 5-6, 12-13 and 19-22, with entry times from 2:30 pm
- Depot
- North Car Shop entrance off Arlington Street, 901 W. Pratt St.
- Price
- Bronze $50-$60 child, $60-$70 adult; Silver $80-$95; Gold $105-$125 (prices rise closer to Christmas)
- Length
- About 2 hours for the whole event
- Lap children
- Under 2 can come as lap infants; pick the lap-infant option when you buy
- Included
- Hot cocoa and a sugar cookie, a silver sleigh bell from Santa for each guest, and Santa photos. Gold adds a mug per ticket
A two-hour event at Baltimore's railroad museum. Families ride to the North Pole, drink cocoa, get a bell from Santa and can take photos with him.
Booking: The time on your ticket is when doors open, so arrive then. Free event parking is at 1100 James Street. Strollers are not allowed past the entrance; check them at the door and collect them after the ride.
Parent tip: The museum now goes by a new name, so look for National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation when you book.
Cumberland, MD
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 24 · Select dates, Nov 20-Dec 24
- Depot
- Cumberland Depot, 13 Canal Street
- Price
- Coach $40, First Class $90, tables $153 (2 seats) or $305 (4 seats), plus a $5 heritage fee per ticket
- Length
- About 1 hour
- Lap children
- Ages 2 and under ride free on an adult's lap
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a sugar cookie and a silver sleigh bell for every rider. First Class adds a mug; table and First Class add an ornament
A one-hour ride from the Cumberland depot. Everyone gets cocoa, a cookie and a silver bell, and pajamas are welcome.
Booking: Arrive 40-45 minutes early to park, pick up tickets and board. Kids with allergies can bring their own cocoa and cookies.
Parent tip: Coach is the cheapest seat at $40 and still comes with cocoa, a cookie and a bell. Allow extra time on I-68 if snow is in the forecast.
Portland, ME
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 28 · Nov 20-22 and 27-29; Dec 4-6, 11-13, 17-23 and 26-28; no trains Dec 24-25
- Depot
- Ocean Gateway Marine Terminal, 65 Thames Street
- Price
- Coach $35-$40, First Class $65-$70, Presidential $105-$110 a person
- Length
- About 50 minutes
- Lap children
- Kids 2 and under on a lap ride for $5 in any class; book their ticket ahead
- Included
- Hot chocolate (lactose-free on request) and a snickerdoodle, plus a silver sleigh bell from Santa for each child. First and Presidential add a mug
A small narrow-gauge train leaves the Ocean Gateway terminal for a ride of about 50 minutes. Kids get cocoa, a cookie and a bell, and Santa stops by.
Booking: Arrive 30 minutes early and board at least 20 minutes before departure. Trains leave on time, and late riders are not refunded. Santa greets riders but does not pose for single photos.
Parent tip: Coach is $35 on most dates, and a lap baby is only $5. Premium departures cost $5 more in every class.
Branson, MO
Branson Scenic Railway
- Dates
- Nov 12 - Jan 2 · Select dates, Nov 12-Jan 2
- Depot
- Branson depot, 206 E Main St
- Price
- Deluxe Coach from $51 adult, $39 child (2-11), plus tax; First Class and dome cars cost more
- Length
- About 1 hour 15 minutes on the train; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Lap infants 23 months and under are $8
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a treat, a reading of the book, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa; First Class adds a mug
A 75-minute ride from downtown Branson with the book read aloud and Santa on board. It's a good add-on to a Branson holiday trip.
Booking: Arrive about 40 minutes before showtime to park and check in. The platform is not heated. Parking by the depot is limited, but you can drop off at the door.
Parent tip: Make sure you book the Polar Express ride and not the regular daytime train.
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis Union Station
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 30 · Evenings, Nov 13-Dec 30; 4:30, 6:00, 7:15 and 8:30 pm
- Depot
- St. Louis Union Station, 201 S. 18th St
- Price
- Holiday Saver from $19.99; Coach from $35; First Class from $45 (sets of 4); premium cars from $100
- Length
- About 45 minutes on the train
- Lap children
- Children 2 and under ride free on a lap (no ticket needed)
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a cookie, a reading of the book, and a visit from Santa on board
One of the shortest rides, at about 45 minutes, which suits toddlers. It leaves from the historic train station downtown and has the lowest starting price in the West.
Booking: Doors open 1 hour before the ride. Train doors close 10 minutes before departure, and late guests can't board. Strollers stay in a secure area at the entrance. Parking $5.
Parent tip: Get there when doors open. Train doors close 10 minutes before departure and late families can't get on.
Bryson City, NC
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Jan 3 · Most days, Nov 6, 2026-Jan 3, 2027
- Depot
- Bryson City Depot (parking across the street at 45 Mitchell Street)
- Price
- Coach from $50.85 adult, $33.52 child (2-12), infants $0; Crown from $57.50; First Class from $71.94 a seat; peak, steam and Christmas Eve trains cost more
- Length
- About 75 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Under 2 free. Table and section classes allow one lap child per adult ticket; Coach lists a $0 infant ticket
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a cookie in every class (higher classes add a tumbler or mug and treats), and a silver bell from Santa for each child
A 75-minute round trip from Bryson City in the Smoky Mountains. Chefs serve cocoa and treats, and on the way back Santa walks through every car with a bell for each child.
Booking: Arrive 1 hour early to pick up tickets. Pajamas are fine, but closed-toe shoes are required.
Parent tip: This ride runs into early January, so it can work for a trip after Christmas.
Spencer, NC
North Carolina Transportation Museum
- Dates
- Nov 6 - Dec 23 · Nov 6-8, 13-15, 20-22, 27-29, Dec 4-6, then daily Dec 10-23
- Depot
- N.C. Transportation Museum, 1 Samuel Spencer Drive
- Price
- See the official site (Standard, Deluxe, First and Parlor classes)
- Lap children
- One free lap infant under 2 per paying adult; everyone 2 and up needs a ticket and seat
- Included
- Cocoa, a cookie, a silver sleigh bell and a golden ticket in every class. Deluxe, First and Parlor add a cup or mug and a treat
The state transportation museum near Salisbury runs two Polar Express trains. Every rider gets cocoa, a cookie, a golden ticket and a sleigh bell.
Booking: Two trains run, Train A and Train B. Parlor class is on Train A only.
Parent tip: Pick your train by departure time first, then by class, since Parlor seats are only on Train A.
Phillipsburg, NJ
Delaware River Railroad Excursions
- Dates
- Nov 27 - Dec 20 · Fri-Sun: Nov 27-29, Dec 4-6, Dec 11-13, Dec 18-20, departures 2pm to 8pm
- Depot
- Lehigh Junction station, 38 Market St
- Price
- About $48 adults, $38 kids (subject to change)
- Length
- About 90 minutes round trip
- Included
- Hot chocolate, a cookie, and a visit from Santa on board
A 90-minute round-trip ride based on the picture book. Kids get hot chocolate, a cookie, and a visit from Santa.
Booking: Buy tickets ahead for a set departure. Tickets are sold through the railroad's ticket seller.
Parent tip: Afternoon weekend trains are easier for toddlers. Pajamas are part of the fun.
Whippany, NJ
Morristown & Erie Railway
- Dates
- Nov 1 - Dec 30 · Most days, Nov 1-Dec 30, priced as value, standard or premium dates
- Depot
- Whippany Station, 1 Railroad Plaza
- Price
- Coach $67-$91 adult, $59-$82 child (2-11); First Class $98-$109 adult, $90-$101 child; fees included. Parking $12 a car
- Length
- About 2 hours in all, with a 1-hour show on board
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket and give the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and shortbread, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa. Babies under 2 get a bell but no treat
A two-hour event in north New Jersey, with a one-hour show on the train. Riders get cocoa and shortbread, and Santa gives out bells.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime. The box office closes at showtime, and no one boards after that. The platform is not heated. A sensory-friendly train runs Dec 1.
Parent tip: November and weekday dates cost less and have more seats. Coats over pajamas help on the cold platform.
Carson City, NV
Virginia & Truckee Railway
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 23 · Thursdays to Sundays, Nov 13-Dec 20, plus Dec 21-23
- Depot
- Eastgate Depot, 4650 Eastgate Siding Rd
- Price
- Classic Coach $60-$80 per 2-person bench, plus fees
- Length
- About 1 hour round trip
- Lap children
- Under 24 months rides free on a lap
- Included
- Hot cocoa and a cookie, carols, a live telling of the story, Santa in every car, and a silver bell for each child
A one-hour diesel train ride from east Carson City, with a live show in each car. Santa walks through every car and each child gets a bell.
Booking: Arrive 45 minutes early. Strollers, wheelchairs and large diaper bags stay at the depot. Seats are sold as 2-person benches only. No refunds.
Parent tip: Seats are sold by the bench, so a parent and one child fill one bench. Leave the stroller in the car.
Kingston, NY
Catskill Mountain Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 30 · Select dates, Nov 13-Dec 30, with peak and off-peak trains
- Depot
- Westbrook Lane Station, 55 Kingston Plaza Road
- Price
- Adults $48 off-peak, $58 peak; kids $38 off-peak, $48 peak
- Length
- About 70 minutes on the train; about 1.5 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket and give the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs, Santa and his elves boarding at the North Pole, and a silver sleigh bell for each guest
A ride of just over an hour from Kingston in the Hudson Valley. Chefs serve cocoa and cookies, and Santa boards to hand every rider a bell.
Booking: Arrive about 45 minutes early to park and check in. Boarding starts about 20 minutes before, and trains leave on time. The platform is not heated.
Parent tip: Off-peak trains cost $10 less per person. The cocoa has dairy, so bring your own drink if your child needs one.
Medina, NY
Medina Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 21 - Dec 27 · Select dates, Nov 21-Dec 27
- Depot
- Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Avenue (free parking at 698 Gwinn St.)
- Price
- Coach from $49, First Class from $65, plus fees
- Length
- About 1 to 1.25 hours
- Lap children
- Lap infants under 2 ride free
- Included
- Hot chocolate, an iced sugar cookie and a silver sleigh bell from Santa. First Class adds table seats, a mug and more time with Santa
A ride of about an hour from the Medina Railroad Museum, between Buffalo and Rochester. Santa boards, greets each child and hands out bells.
Booking: Arrive 1 hour early to pick up tickets at will call. Closed-toe shoes are required. The old cars cannot take wheelchairs.
Parent tip: Lake-effect snow is common here, so leave extra driving time.
Utica, NY
Adirondack Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 20 · Select dates, Nov 20-Dec 20. Trains at 2:00, 5:00 and 7:30 pm (2:00 pm on select December weekends only)
- Depot
- Utica Union Station, 321 Main Street
- Price
- Coach $47 adult, $39 child (2-12); First Class $68 adult, $58 child
- Length
- 1 to 1.5 hours on the train; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 ride free on a lap unless you buy them a seat
- Included
- Hot chocolate and sugar cookies, the story and carols, and Santa visiting each family with a silver bell for every rider. First Class adds a table and a mug
A ride of about an hour from Utica's Union Station, with a short opening show first. Santa visits every family, and each rider gets a silver bell.
Booking: Arrive about 1 hour early; bags are checked before boarding. Tables and coach sections seat 4, so smaller groups may share.
Parent tip: Buy all 4 seats in a section if you want your family to sit alone.
Dennison, OH
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum
- Dates
- Dec 3-13 · Dec 3-6 and 10-13; 6 and 8 pm on Thursdays and Fridays, 2, 4, 6 and 8 pm on weekends
- Depot
- Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St.
- Price
- Coach $55-$65, Deluxe $66-$74, First Class $75-$85, plus a $4 fee per ticket; private compartment for 6 is $595
- Lap children
- Everyone 1 year and up needs a ticket and seat. A baby carrier on a seat needs its own ticket
- Included
- Hot chocolate and cookies, the book read aloud, songs and games with elves, and a jingle bell from Santa for each child. Deluxe and First Class kids get an engineer cap and whistle
Ohio's licensed ride runs for just two weeks in December from a historic depot. Storytellers read the book, elves lead games, and Santa boards with bells.
Booking: Arrive 1 hour early. Boarding starts 30 minutes before, and gates close 5 minutes before. Strollers go to stroller parking, not on the train. Skip open-toe shoes and slippers.
Parent tip: Babies over 1 need their own seat here, which is stricter than most rides. The 8 pm Thursday and Sunday trains are the cheapest.
Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma Railway Museum
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 31 · Select days, Nov 20-Dec 31; 11:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Depot
- Oklahoma Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand Blvd
- Price
- Coach $62-$76 adult, $54-$68 child (2-11); First Class $79-$92 adult; fees and taxes included; parking $6
- Length
- Train show about 1 hour; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 rides free on a lap; pick the free infant ticket at checkout and add the child's name
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a shortbread cookie, a reading of the book, and Santa with the first gift of Christmas
A one-hour ride at a rail museum in northeast Oklahoma City. The story happens on the train; there is no village to walk through.
Booking: Arrive about 60 minutes before showtime to park and check in. The box office closes at showtime. The platform is not heated. Sensory-friendly ride Dec 13 at 1:30 pm.
Parent tip: The cheapest value-price rides are in the week before Thanksgiving.
Hood River, OR
Mount Hood Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Jan 2 · Select days, Nov 20-Jan 2
- Depot
- Hood River depot, 110 Railroad Ave
- Price
- Adults $59-$109, kids 2-12 $49-$99, by day and seat type (Standard, Parlor, Premium, VIP)
- Length
- About 90 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Infants 0-2 ride on a paying adult's lap for $10; every rider needs a ticket
- Included
- Cocoa and cookies on board and a silver bell for each child; VIP adds a ceramic mug, Premium a tumbler
A 90-minute ride from Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge, east of Portland. Every seat type gets the same show.
Booking: Arrive 45-60 minutes early. Park at the overflow lot at 113 Portway Ave and take the shuttle to the depot. Will Call opens 1 hour before the first train. The platform is not heated.
Parent tip: The show is the same on every date, so value days save money with no trade-off.
Galveston, TX
Galveston Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 23 · Select days, Nov 13-Dec 23
- Depot
- Historic 1932 Union Depot, 2602 Santa Fe Place
- Price
- See the official site
- Length
- About 1 hour on the train; about 2 hours in all
- Lap children
- Every child needs a ticket: a lap ticket or a full seat
- Included
- Round-trip ride, hot chocolate and a cookie, and a silver bell for each rider from Santa or an elf
A one-hour ride from the 1932 Union Depot. Pajamas are encouraged, and every rider gets a bell.
Booking: Strollers and baby carriers are not allowed on board. Final boarding is 10 minutes before departure. Sensory-friendly rides Dec 15 at 5:30 and 7:15 pm.
Parent tip: Even a lap baby needs a lap ticket here. Plan to carry little ones, since strollers stay off the train.
Palestine, TX
Texas State Railroad
- Dates
- Nov 13 - Dec 28 · Select days, Nov 13-Dec 28; rides between 3:00 and 7:30 pm
- Depot
- Palestine Depot, 789 Park Road 70
- Price
- Coach from $40 adult, $20 child (2-12) on value nights; up to $115 in Presidential cars; plus $3 fee per ticket
- Length
- About 60 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Adult-with-lap-child ticket (under 2) costs $10 more than an adult ticket
- Included
- Train ride, hot chocolate and cookies; First Class and up add a keepsake mug (coach does not)
A one-hour diesel train ride in East Texas. It has many seat types, from basic coach to glass-domed cars.
Booking: Check in at least 45 minutes early at the ticket window. Boarding passes must be picked up 15 minutes before departure. The platform closes 10 minutes before departure.
Parent tip: Coach on value nights is $40 per adult and $20 per child. Upgrade to First Class only if you want the mug.
Burlington, VT
Vermont Children's Trust Foundation
- Dates
- Dec 5-6 · Dec 5 and 6 only
- Depot
- Wing Building lobby, bottom of King Street, just south of Union Station
- Price
- $40 a person, up to 5 per order
- Length
- About 20 minutes on the train; about 1 hour 15 minutes in all
- Lap children
- Under 2 on a lap do not need a ticket
- Included
- Hot cocoa and cookies from chefs, the story at Union Station, and a bell from Santa for each child
A short charity train along the Burlington waterfront for two days only. Kids drink cocoa, hear the story and get a bell from Santa.
Booking: Most tickets go to donors, sponsors and a random draw from a wait list. Kids with food allergies should bring their own cocoa and cookies. Walk back to your car on Battery Street.
Parent tip: Join the wait list early. Bring a warm coat over pajamas, because the waterfront is windy in December.
White River Junction, VT
Rotary Club of White River
- Dates
- Dec 12-13 · Sat Dec 12, trains 10:00 am-7:00 pm; Sun Dec 13, trains 10:00 am-5:30 pm
- Depot
- White River Junction (the boarding station is not named on the official site)
- Price
- $45 regular seat, $50 seat with a table, plus a handling fee; up to 8 per order
- Length
- About 45 minutes on the train; plan about 1.5 hours in all
- Lap children
- Kids 1 and under ride free on a lap
- Included
- Hot chocolate in a covered cup, a sugar cookie and a bell for each child; Santa boards at the North Pole
A Rotary Club train runs for one weekend in White River Junction. Kids get cocoa, a cookie and a bell, and Santa climbs aboard at the North Pole.
Booking: Strollers are not allowed on the train; leave them at the station. There are no bathrooms on board. Pick up tickets at your boarding time.
Parent tip: Use the station bathroom before you board. Wear boots and warm layers over pajamas.
Chehalis, WA
Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum
- Dates
- Nov 14 - Dec 20 · Weekends Nov 14-Dec 20, plus Fridays Dec 4, 11 and 18; 2:00, 4:30 and 7:00 pm (no 2 pm on Fridays)
- Depot
- Chehalis depot, 1101 SW Sylvenus St
- Price
- Coach $69 per person; First Class sold out
- Length
- About 75 minutes round trip
- Lap children
- Children 2 and under are free on an adult's lap
- Included
- Cocoa, a cookie and a sleigh bell; you keep the golden ticket; First Class adds a souvenir mug
A 75-minute ride in 1920s-style cars through the Chehalis River Valley. A diesel engine pulls the train while the steam engine is being fixed.
Booking: Arrive 30 minutes early to get your boarding pass. Strollers and infant car seats must stay at the depot. Online sales only, all sales final. Not wheelchair accessible.
Parent tip: The old cars have little heat. Bring a blanket and warm pajamas.
Green Bay, WI
National Railroad Museum
- Dates
- Nov 20 - Dec 13 · Fridays to Sundays, Nov 20-Dec 13
- Depot
- Museum depot, 2285 South Broadway (across the parking lot from the Lenfestey Center)
- Price
- $35-$75 a seat by car (Northern Lights coach $35 up to table and lounge seats $70-$75). Sold out for 2026
- Length
- About 105 minutes: a 30-minute pre-show, then 75 minutes for the ride and Santa
- Lap children
- Everyone needs a ticket, including lap babies
- Included
- Hot chocolate and a sugar cookie, and Santa on the train. Northern Lights and Glacier Gulch riders can see Santa again in the depot after
A pre-show at the museum, then a 75-minute train ride and visit with Santa. Pajamas are welcome for kids and adults.
Booking: Arrive 30-40 minutes before showtime, not earlier; doors open 30 minutes before. Glacier Gulch is the only wheelchair-accessible car. There are no restrooms on the train.
Parent tip: All 2026 shows are sold out and the museum will not add more. Buy only from the museum, since resold tickets are not honored.
Dates and prices were checked on each railroad's official site. Rides often sell out, and details can change, so check the official site before you go. THE POLAR EXPRESS is a trademark of Warner Bros.; rides are run by individual railroads under license.
Questions parents ask
Where can I ride a Christmas train near me?
Start with the city list on this page. It has 32 Santa trains, trolley rides, and holiday train shows in 19 cities. Below that is every licensed Polar Express ride, 32 in 21 states, with a state filter.
What is the difference between a Santa train and the Polar Express?
The Polar Express train ride is a licensed holiday ride based on the picture book. Each railroad that runs it follows the story, often with cocoa, a cookie, and a bell.
Santa trains are a railroad's or museum's own holiday ride. Many include a visit with Santa. They are often shorter and cost less, which can suit toddlers.
Can babies ride Christmas trains for free?
On many Polar Express rides, children under 2 ride free on a lap. The rules differ by railroad, so check each ride's lap-child note below before you book.
For Santa trains and trolley rides, see each event's official site.
When should I book a Christmas train ride?
Book as early as you can, since popular rides sell out. Some railroads charge less in late November and on weeknights than on peak nights close to Christmas.