The Polar Express Train Ride
Embark on a magical journey aboard The Polar Express Train Ride™ at the National Railroad Museum. This beloved holiday tradition immerses guests in the classic story, featuring a live reading, hot chocolate, and an unforgettable train ride to the North Pole. Meet Santa Claus and create lasting memories during this enchanting Christmas experience.
What to Expect
Immersive Polar Express story experience on a real vintage train.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 105 minutes (30 min pre-show, 75 min program/train ride)
Ages
All ages (ticket required for all, including lap sitters)
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
National Railroad Museum
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate and cookies are served during the show. Food trucks and beverage vendors are not mentioned.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (most of the experience is indoors)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $35.00 – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available on the Museum grounds in the main lot and the Fox River Expansion lot. Overflow parking is located across the street at Cormier School. Parking attendants are available.
- Accessibility: Museum buildings and the Glacier Gulch train car are handicap accessible. A wheelchair lift is available for train boarding. Please inform staff of any special needs upon arrival. Northern Lights, Arctic Circle, and Spirit of the Season cars are not handicap accessible.
- Pets: No pets or emotional support animals allowed. Trained service animals are welcome.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive 30-40 minutes before your scheduled showtime to allow ample time for parking, check-in, and pre-show activities like exploring exhibits and the Festival of Trees.
- Consider wearing pajamas, as many attendees do, to fully embrace the magical spirit of The Polar Express.
- If you require handicap accessibility, ensure you purchase tickets for the Glacier Gulch car, as other cars are not accessible.
- Be flexible with your desired date and time when purchasing tickets, as they sell out extremely quickly, often within hours.
- Bring noise-canceling headphones if you or someone in your group is sensitive to loud sounds, as the show includes music, dancing, and sound effects.
Special Events & Promotions
- Tickets sell out quickly, often within hours.
- Different ticket prices and seating options are available based on train car.
- The event is a fundraiser for the National Railroad Museum's educational programs and operations.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the train cars?
The train cars offer different seating arrangements, amenities, and levels of interaction with Santa. Northern Lights has general seating and Santa visits after the ride. Glacier Gulch offers first-class seating with Santa visits after the ride. Arctic Circle and Spirit of the Season (Table and Lounge) are premium seating with Santa visits during the ride and extra refreshments.
Who needs a ticket?
Everyone, regardless of age, needs a ticket to participate in The Polar Express Train Ride™. This includes infants and children who might lap-sit.
Can I tour the museum with my Polar Express ticket?
No, your Polar Express ticket is valid only for your specific showtime. However, arriving 30 minutes early allows you to experience most of the museum's indoor exhibits, the Festival of Trees, and the gift shop before your show.
What happens if I arrive late?
The show starts promptly at your ticketed time. Late arrivals should check in and wait for an usher. If you arrive more than 30 minutes late, the train will have departed, and no refunds will be issued.
Is the event handicap accessible?
Yes, the museum buildings and the Glacier Gulch train car are handicap accessible. A wheelchair lift is available for train boarding. Please inform staff of any special needs upon arrival.
More Christmas Events Near Green Bay
More Christmas Events near Green Bay
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.