The Polar Express Train Ride
Passengers board vintage coaches for a round-trip journey to the North Pole set to the sounds of the motion picture. During the ride, dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies while guests read along with the classic book. Santa and his elves board at the North Pole to greet families and hand out keepsake silver sleigh bells alongside festive caroling.
What to Expect
Themed holiday train ride to the North Pole with Santa.
Event Details
Duration
The entire experience is roughly an hour and a half. The train ride itself is just over an hour and is also described as approximately 70 minutes.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Catskill Mountain Railroad
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate containing dairy and cookies that do not contain nuts but may come from a facility that processes nuts are served; guests with dietary needs may bring an alternative treat or drink and should notify staff.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and storybook
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Off-peak: Adult $48, Child $38. Peak: Adult $55, Child $48. Children under 2 may ride free if they do not occupy a seat and ride on an adult’s lap; a free infant ticket must be selected at checkout and the child’s name provided on the reservation. Ulster County and Kingston residents can get $10 off the regular ticket price per person by contacting the event; proof of residence is required. Military and first responders can get $5 off the regular ticket price by contacting the event; proof of service is required. – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is free in the Kingston Plaza lot adjacent to the train station. Designated spaces for visitors with disabilities or mobility issues are directly adjacent to the station; notify parking attendants if a reserved space is needed.
- Accessibility: The station and train are wheelchair accessible with limited seating, but there are no restrooms on the train.
Tips & Advice
- Book as soon as you know your date and train, because tickets have sold out quickly in past years.
- Arrive about 45 minutes before departure to park and check in at will call, because trains leave on schedule without exception.
- Look over the seating chart carefully when you check out, because assigned seats can't be changed or combined once you're on board.
- Use the portable restrooms at the station before boarding, since there are no restrooms on the train.
- Wear warm pajamas with a winter coat over them, because you may spend time on an unheated platform when boarding and getting off.
Special Events & Promotions
- Limited sensory-friendly seats with softer audio and lighting; call reservations to book them.
- Ulster County and Kingston residents get a discount off regular tickets with proof of residence, by contacting the railroad.
- Military and first responders get a discount off regular tickets with proof of service, by contacting the railroad.
- Off-peak trains are sold at a discounted rate.
- Discount hotel rates at the Best Western Plus for Polar Express customers.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should we wear?
Families are encouraged to wear warm pajamas like the passengers in the book and film. Bring winter clothing too, since you may wait on an unheated platform when boarding and getting off.
How long does the whole thing take?
Allow about an hour and a half for the whole visit. The train ride itself is just over an hour, a round trip of less than ten miles.
What if someone has a food allergy?
Hot chocolate and cookies are served on board. The cookies have no nuts but may come from a facility that processes nuts, and the hot chocolate contains dairy. Tell reservations and your car's onboard staff, and feel free to bring an alternate treat or drink.
Are there restrooms on the train?
No. There are no restrooms on board, but portable restrooms are available at the station.
Does the train run in snow?
Yes. Trains run regardless of the weather.
More Christmas Events Near Kingston
More Christmas Events near Kingston
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.