The Polar Express Train Ride
Passengers board at the historic 1932 Union Depot for a one-hour round-trip journey inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's holiday story. Aboard enclosed and heated railcars, guests enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie served by chefs while following along with the tale. Santa boards at the North Pole to visit each car, delivering a silver bell as the first gift of Christmas alongside festive caroling.
What to Expect
Round-trip holiday journey to the North Pole with Santa and carols
Event Details
Duration
The train ride is approximately 60 minutes, and the full experience is approximately two hours, including arrival and pre-boarding activities.
Ages
All ages (children age 1 and under may ride on an adult's lap; ages 2 and 3 require a ticket)
Neighborhood
Downtown Galveston
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Galveston Railroad Museum
Food & Drink
Tickets include hot chocolate and a cookie served aboard; First Class includes a special cookie and souvenir mug, and the depot food court offers snacks, refreshments, and light fare.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Tuesday, December 15: 5:30 PM and 7:15 PM (sensory-friendly rides).
- Parking: Special event parking fees apply. Parking is sold online or at the gate, based on availability.
- Accessibility: Due to historic narrow doorways and steep steps, the ride may not be fully accessible; large wheelchairs and motorized scooters cannot be accommodated aboard, and the Bonnie Brook car is not ADA accessible.
Tips & Advice
- Book early, because Polar Express tickets sell out very quickly, sales are final, and there is little chance of rescheduling once you've picked a date.
- Arrive an hour before departure for food, letters to Santa and a special performance, since trains leave on time and final boarding closes ten minutes before.
- Wear pajamas, but add warm layers and closed-toe shoes for the walk to and from the car, as parts of the depot are open to the elements.
- Leave strollers in the car, because strollers and baby carriers aren't allowed on board and anything left at the depot is your responsibility.
- Bring your own copy of The Polar Express, or buy one in the gift shop, and Santa will sign it for you.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory-friendly rides on Tuesday, December 15, in a dedicated railcar for neurodiverse individuals and their families.
- First Class upgrade with tables for four, a special cookie, a souvenir mug and assigned waiters.
- Hotel packages at The Tremont House, Holiday Inn Resort, The San Luis Resort and Hilton Galveston Island Resort, several with transportation to the museum.
- Holiday party bookings at the museum can include the train ride.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ticket include?
A round-trip ride to the North Pole, with hot chocolate and a cookie served by the Chefs. On the way back, Santa walks through every car and gives each child the first gift of Christmas, a silver bell, while everyone sings carols.
Do we need to know the story?
No. The story is read aloud during the ride, so anyone can follow along.
Does my baby need a ticket, and can we bring a stroller?
Every child needs a ticket, either a lap ticket or a full seat. Strollers and baby carriers aren't allowed on board, and strollers left at the depot are your responsibility.
Can you handle food allergies?
Special dietary requests can't be met on board, but you can bring your own cookies and hot chocolate and tell the Chefs when you board. The onboard cookies are tree nut and peanut free but are made in a facility that handles nuts.
What's the difference between First Class and Coach?
First Class seats you at tables for four with hot chocolate, a special cookie, a souvenir mug and assigned waiters. Coach has reserved seats in train-style rows with hot chocolate and a cookie.
More Christmas Events Near Galveston
More Christmas Events near Galveston
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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.