North Pole Express
Passengers ride vintage railcars from St. Paul Union Depot to the North Pole, where Santa greets the train and climbs aboard for the journey back. During the ride, children can write letters to Santa, which he collects in person as he visits each car. The experience also includes carhost entertainment, a holiday treat for kids, and festive activities inside the depot.
Dec 4 – Dec 13, 2026
See more other Christmas activities near St. Paul
Plan Your Visit
Tickets
There is a $15 service fee to exchange tickets to another day or class, plus any difference in face value if upgrading; paying the fee does not guarantee the requested day, time or class.
Hours
Thursdays & Fridays 1:30 pm to 7:30 pm; Saturdays 10:00 am to 7:30 pm; Sundays 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Food & Drink
Children receive a holiday treat after the ride; First Class tickets also include a Christmas treat onboard.
Parking
Allow plenty of time to travel, park and walk to the ticket check-in counter at St. Paul Union Depot. There are one-way and limited-access streets nearby, and the building covers several city blocks.
Accessibility
Limited ADA accessibility is available on the train upon advance request, and accessible drop-off locations are provided at the depot.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Check in at the ticket counter in the Concourse above the Kellogg Boulevard entry, and arrive with time to travel, park and walk there.
- Boarding starts shortly before departure and gates close shortly before departure, so reach check-in well ahead of your train’s departure.
- Reserve a Union Depot parking space ahead if you want a guaranteed spot; Lots B, C and D are available.
- Groups hoping to sit together should gather before checking in and check in as one group, since seating is first come, first served.
- Dress for the weather, and leave time to walk through the depot, which covers several city blocks.
Special Events & Promotions
- First Class is available as an upgrade, with limited seating.
- Advance parking reservations are newly available.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a ticket, including infants and young children?
Every passenger, young or old, needs a ticket.
How long does the experience take?
The experience lasts about an hour and a half, including roughly an hour on the train.
What is included in the journey?
Passengers ride to the North Pole and back, can write a letter to Santa, meet him on the train, and receive a holiday treat. Children can also enjoy activities inside Union Depot.
Can our group sit together?
Seating is first come, first served. Gather as a group before checking in and check in together to help volunteers seat you together.
What is different about First Class?
First Class has priority boarding, a vintage lounge railcar, a Christmas treat on the train, more time with Santa and a keepsake souvenir. Seating is limited.
Browse Christmas in Saint Paul
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.