AI image – Event may differ
The North County Polar Express Train Ride
Perris, CA
A magical train journey to meet Santa Claus.
About
Embark on a magical journey aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, where the classic holiday story comes to life. Passengers are whisked away on a festive trip to meet Santa Claus himself, enjoying hot chocolate, delicious shortbread, and the reading of the beloved book. Each guest receives a special silver sleigh bell, the First Gift of Christmas, creating cherished memories for the whole family.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Magical, festive, nostalgic
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Tickets are available in Value, Standard, and Premium tiers, with all-inclusive pricing.
Duration
Approximately 1 hour per trip
Ages
Suitable for children aged 2-11, with general family appeal.
Schedule
Tickets are on sale for the 2025 season. Specific dates and times are available via the 'Schedule & Tickets' link.
Organizer
Rail Events Inc.
Practical Information
Accessibility
The website offers accessibility tools for adjusting text size, contrast, and font.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed, service animals welcome.
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate and Walker's Shortbread are served on board.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets well in advance, as popular departure times for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride often sell out quickly, especially for the 2025 season.
- Arrive at the Southern California Railway Museum at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for boarding and finding your assigned seats.
- Consider purchasing Premium tickets for the best seating experience and proximity to the entertainment, though all seating offers a festive atmosphere.
- Dress in comfortable, warm clothing as train cars can be cooler, and bring your camera to capture the magical moments with Santa and the festive decorations.
- Familiarize yourself with the FAQ page on their website before your visit to get answers to common questions about the ride, amenities, and policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with my ticket?
Your ticket includes a magical one-hour train trip, a golden ticket, hot chocolate, delicious Walker's Shortbread, the reading of 'The Polar Express' book, and a silver sleigh bell, the First Gift of Christmas.
What are the different ticket tiers?
Tickets are available in Value, Standard, and Premium tiers, offering different price points and seating experiences. All pricing is all-inclusive.
Is the train ride accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, designated wheelchair spaces are available in select coaches and can be booked online by selecting the wheelchair space icon and adjacent companion seats.
What is the seating arrangement on the train?
All seats are assigned and selected during checkout. Seating is arranged in a 3-2 configuration within restored commuter coaches, offering a theatre-in-the-round viewing experience.
Where is the event located?
The event is held at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, CA.