North Pole Express
Guests embark on a train ride through the Florida countryside to reach a festive North Pole village. Visitors can gather around campfires, enjoy unlimited hot chocolate and cookies, listen to storytelling, and view model train displays. Every child has the opportunity to visit Santa Claus in his office and receives a special gift.
What to Expect
Train ride to the North Pole with Santa, campfires, and unlimited cookies.
Event Details
Duration
The complete experience lasts approximately 3¾ hours. The train ride to the North Pole is about 45 minutes, followed by 2½ hours of activities, then the return journey.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Florida Railroad Museum
Food & Drink
Unlimited cookies and hot chocolate are included; additional food, beverages, and s’mores kits are available for purchase, while First Class includes onboard snacks and beverages and private caboose guests may bring food and non-alcoholic drinks.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Ticket prices vary by travel date, departure time, class of service, seating type, and guest age; current prices are displayed when a date and departure are selected. Online and telephone reservations have a service fee. Everyone needs a ticket to travel; children under one may ride without charge when seated on an adult’s lap with a lap rider ticket, subject to the stated seating restrictions. Every ticket includes the complete North Pole experience. Additional food, beverages, and s’mores kits cost extra; adding s’mores kits to a ticket purchase saves $2 per kit. First Class includes complimentary snacks and beverages during the train ride. – Get tickets
- Hours: Most evenings have departures at 5:15 PM and 7:15 PM. Boarding generally begins 20–30 minutes before departure; the schedule lists boarding at 4:45 PM and 6:55 PM. The North Pole arrival times are 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, departures back are 8:25 PM and 10:25 PM, and Parrish arrival times are 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Return times are approximate.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the Florida Railroad Museum. Visitors are advised not to leave valuables in vehicles. Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure to allow time for parking and other preparations.
- Accessibility: Designated accessible cars feature ramp boarding, though grounds are level grass and onboard restrooms are not wheelchair accessible.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive 45 to 60 minutes before departure, because the train leaves on schedule and cannot be held for late guests.
- Book everyone in your party on one reservation in the same car and class so the museum can seat you together.
- Add s'mores kits when you buy tickets to save on each kit and skip the line at the North Pole campfires.
- Pack light and carry everything with you, since the train does not stay at the North Pole and strollers and large bags are not allowed.
- Book early, because space is limited, popular departures sell out quickly and there is no waitlist for sold-out trains.
Special Events & Promotions
- Add s'mores kits to your ticket for a discount on each kit, and they'll be waiting at the North Pole
- Optional Ticket Refund Protection, bought with the original booking, allows cancellation up to 48 hours before departure
- First Class includes complimentary snacks and drinks on the ride to the North Pole
- Private Caboose for up to 16 guests with a Museum host; you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we bring a stroller?
No. Strollers, car seats, large coolers and oversized bags aren't allowed on the train. Small bags have to fit on your lap.
What should we wear?
The North Pole activities are outdoors on a large grassy field. Coach Class cars are open-air. Dress for the forecast and bring layers, especially for children.
Will every child get to see Santa?
Yes. The train doesn't leave the North Pole until every family has had a chance to visit Santa. Every child gets a special gift.
Can we bring our own food?
Outside food and drinks aren't allowed on the train. Exceptions are made for infant needs, allergies, medical needs and special diets, and small soft-sided coolers are fine for those. Meals, snacks and drinks are sold at the North Pole, and the menu is emailed a few days before your trip.
How long should we allow?
Allow about 3¾ hours in total. That's a 45-minute train ride each way and about 2½ hours at the North Pole.
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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.