Illustration of a santa visit scene (North Pole Express)
Other Christmas Activities

North Pole Express

All aboard for a magical journey on the North Pole Express! This cherished holiday tradition offers a 45-minute train ride through the Florida countryside to a whimsical North Pole. Upon arrival, families can enjoy 2.5 hours of festive activities, including unlimited cookies and hot chocolate, cozy campfires, engaging entertainment, and a personal visit with Santa Claus. Every child receives a special gift, creating lasting memories.

What to Expect

Historic train ride to a magical North Pole with Santa.

Event Details

Duration

3.75 Hours

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Florida Railroad Museum

Food & Drink

Unlimited cookies and hot chocolate included; additional food, beverages, and s'mores kits available for purchase. Private caboose guests may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families

Vibe

Festive, magical, traditional

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

Florida Railroad Museum
12210 83rd Street East
Parrish, FL
34219

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Parking: Parking at the Florida Railroad Museum is free.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair spaces are available in designated accessible cars and must be reserved. Accessible boarding ramp and parking are available. The station and North Pole grounds are primarily level grass fields, which may be uneven or soft depending on weather. Accessible restroom facilities are available at both locations. Onboard train restrooms are not wheelchair accessible. Guests with specific accessibility questions should contact the Ticket Office.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive 45-60 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for parking, ticket pickup, and boarding, as the train departs precisely on time.
  • Dress in layers and consider the weather forecast, especially if you choose Coach Class, which is open-air and exposed to outdoor temperatures.
  • Book all members of your party on a single reservation to ensure you are seated together, as separate reservations cannot be guaranteed adjacent seating.
  • Small bags are permitted, but large coolers, strollers, and oversized bags are not allowed on the train due to limited storage space.
  • Consider purchasing s'mores kits in advance with your ticket to save money and skip the line at the North Pole.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Private caboose rentals available for groups up to 16 guests.
  • Optional Ticket Refund Protection can be purchased for cancellations.
  • S'mores kits available for purchase in advance.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included with every ticket?

Every ticket includes round-trip train transportation to the North Pole, a personal visit with Santa Claus, a special gift for every child, unlimited cookies and hot chocolate, holiday activities and entertainment, storytelling, model train displays, campfires, reindeer food, and access to the toy tent.

Can I change my reservation?

Reservations can be exchanged to another available date or departure with at least 48 hours' notice, subject to any price differences. Within 48 hours of departure, reservations cannot be exchanged or refunded unless you purchased Ticket Refund Protection.

What should we wear?

Dress for the forecast and consider bringing layers, especially for children. Coach Class is open-air and exposed to outdoor temperatures and wind. The North Pole activities take place outdoors on a large grassy field.

Is parking available?

Yes, parking at the Florida Railroad Museum is free. Please do not leave valuables in your vehicle.

Are strollers or car seats allowed on the train?

Strollers, car seats, large coolers, and oversized bags are not permitted aboard the train due to extremely limited storage space. Small bags must fit comfortably on your lap.

Tags

train ridesfamily friendlySanta visitsholiday traditionseasonal activitiesfestive foodchildrens activitiescommunity celebrationholiday cheer

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team