Polar Express 2023

Polar Express Vintage Train Rides

The Polar Express is a 1985 fantasy children’s story by Chris Van Allsburg, which was adapted into an animated film in 2004 starring Tom Hanks. It is about a boy who doubts the existence of Santa Claus but is invited to board a magical train that takes him and other children to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he experiences many adventures and learns about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas. He also receives a special gift from Santa that only those who believe can hear. The story is a celebration of the wonder and joy of childhood.

Here are five railroads operating vintage trains that offer a Polar Express experience during the holidays.

Heber Valley Railroad

Polar Express through Dec. 29

The Heber Valley Railroad Polar Express is a festive train ride that recreates the magical journey from the classic children’s book and movie. Passengers board a vintage locomotive and enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and Christmas songs on their way to the North Pole. There, they meet Santa Claus and receive a special gift. The ride lasts about 90 minutes and is a popular attraction for families during the holiday season.

North Pole Express ticket prices vary by coach and date.
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Nevada Northern Railway

The Nevada Northern Railroad is a historical railroad that was built in the early 20th century to serve the copper mining industry in Nevada. It connected the town of Ely, where the mines and smelter were located, to the main rail lines of the Southern Pacific and Western Pacific. The railroad operated until 1983, when the copper industry declined. Today, it is a heritage railroad museum and a National Historic Landmark, offering train rides, tours, and hands-on experiences to visitors.

Santa’s Reindeer Flyer Through Dec. 28, 2023

Santa’s Reindeer Flyer heads to the North Pole to visit with Santa Claus, includes hot chocolate and cookies.
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CLICK HERE for more information.

Nevada Southern Railway

Annual Boulder City North Pole Express 2023 Through Dec 20

The Southern Northern Railway North Pole Express is a seasonal train ride that recreates the magical journey from the classic children’s book and movie The Polar Express. Passengers board a vintage diesel locomotive and enjoy hot cocoa, cookies on a journey to Santa’s Railyard. The ride lasts about 90 minutes and is a popular attraction for families during the holiday season.

A Fundraising Event to benefit the Nevada State Railroad Museum.
(This is formerly known as the Pajama Train or Santa Train)

A time for family and friends to travel to Santa’s Railyard.
90-minute event with an early evening train ride, then time in
Santa’s rail yard before taking the short train ride back to the station.
All riders receive hot cocoa and cookies and picture opportunities with Santa.
Families are encouraged to dress for the weather.
PJ’s and Christmas sweaters are a traditional choice.

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CLICK HERE for more information.

Grand Canyon Railway

Grand Canyon Railway – Polar Express through Dec 30

The Grand Canyon Railroad’s version of the Polar Express inspired by the classic children’s book and movie. Passengers board a vintage steam locomotive and enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and Christmas songs on their way to the North Pole. There, they meet Santa Claus and receive a keepsake present. The ride lasts about 90 minutes and operates from November to December, with departures at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. from Williams, Arizona

Williams, Arizona, to the enchanted beauty of “the North Pole”—where Santa Claus and his reindeer are waiting with a jingle bell for every good boy and girl.
Enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies while listening to this timeless story.
The ride lasts a little over an hour, with the train leaving each night at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
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CLICK HERE for more information.

TOTAL ROUND-TRIP TIME: Approximately 90 minutes.

Equipment

Our primary movers are 3 EMD F-40PH diesel locomotives, acquired in February 2003. General Motors Electro Motive Division built Nos. 237 and 239 in 1977 and No. 295 in 1979. Amtrak used the engines through the late 1990s.

The Ultimate Polar Express Experience

The Ultimate Polar Express Experience aboard your own private train car to the North Pole!
Ride in our exclusive, first-class historic train cars – it’s like a living room on the rails.
Your private chef will lead Christmas carols and share treats like cookies and hot chocolate.
Parents can enjoy refreshments from a private bar.
Then, Santa Claus will board the train, present each child the signature Polar Express bell, and spend the whole journey back from the North Pole with you to ring in the season.

Guests receive a commemorative bell, mug, gift bag, and other special gifts from Santa. Custom catering and full bar service available upon request; credit card payments only – contact our V.I.P. Rail Concierge for details and pricing at 928-635-5700. Prices start at $5,500 for this private charter experience.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Polar Express through January 1, 2024

Theatrical re-creation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride.
Vintage steam train as it departs our Durango Depot for the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus himself.
You’ll be immersed in the story as our chefs serve you hot chocolate and a sweet treat while you listen to a reading from the Polar Express book.
After arriving at the North Pole, you’ll enjoy an incredible light show set to holiday music. On the return trip to Durango, Santa will visit each coach and hand out the first gift of Christmas to each passenger.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is our most popular event of the year and is an annual holiday tradition for many riders.
While the train excursion is roughly 65 minutes in duration, we recommend allowing 2 hours for the entire adventure so you can enjoy the full experience!
The weather can be cold at the North Pole, so we recommend layering properly, even though all the cabins are heated aboard the train.
As always, we recommend wearing pajamas to capture the Christmas spirit! Click below for more frequently asked questions about the event.
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CLICK HERE for more information.