THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Embark on a truly magical journey aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. This beloved family tradition begins at the Central Pacific Passenger Station, where guests are entertained before boarding vintage locomotives for a trip to the North Pole. Onboard, enjoy hot chocolate and a treat while listening to the story. Santa Claus himself will board the train to present each passenger with the first gift of Christmas: a silver sleigh bell.
What to Expect
Magical train journey to the North Pole with Santa.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1 hour (train ride)
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
California State Railroad Museum Foundation
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate and a sweet treat are served aboard the train. Restaurants are available in the Old Sacramento Historic District.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families
Vibe
Magical, festive, nostalgic
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: On-street metered parking is time-limited to 90 minutes or less and rarely available. Recommended parking is in the City of Sacramento’s Downtown/Old Sacramento public parking lot located on “I” Street between 2nd and 3rd Streets, underneath Interstate 5. Pre-purchasing parking is recommended. Reservations for Polar Express event parking can be made online.
- Accessibility: THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in Sacramento is not fully accessible to persons with disabilities due to historic, limited doorway widths and steep stepwells within the train cars. Train crews can assist with boarding and alighting. The California State Railroad Museum and related event activities are fully accessible, except as noted for the train. Contact ticketing@csrmf.org for special accommodation requests.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure time to account for parking and walking to the station, as departure times are exact and missed trains are not eligible for refunds.
- Consider dressing in warm pajamas and bringing your copy of 'The Polar Express' book, as encouraged by the event organizers, but ensure footwear is suitable for walking on streets with packed granite soil and wooden boardwalks.
- Strollers and baby carriers are not permitted on the train due to narrow aisles; designated stroller parking will be available near the boarding area.
- While the train cars are heated, the Central Pacific Passenger Station is an open-sided building and not heated, so dress warmly for the pre-boarding experience.
- First Class tickets, which include a commemorative mug, often sell out first; consider purchasing them early if you desire a more luxurious experience.
Special Events & Promotions
- Member presale access
- Digital tickets delivered one week prior to departure
- Collectible souvenir mug for First Class passengers
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets go on sale to the general public on September 18, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Member presale dates are September 14-17.
What is included with a ticket?
Each ticket includes the train ride, admission to the Central Pacific Passenger Station for entertainment and shopping, and admission to the Eagle Theater to meet Santa.
Are there refunds or exchanges?
No, all sales are final. There are no refunds or exchanges for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride tickets.
What if we miss our train?
Departure times are exact. Missed train rides cannot be taken later and are not eligible for a refund. It is recommended to arrive at least 1 hour prior to departure.
Can we wear pajamas?
Yes, families are encouraged to wear their warmest pajamas and bring their book for the Conductor to sign. Ensure footwear is appropriate for walking.
More Christmas Events Near Sacramento
More Christmas Events near Sacramento
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.