The Polar Express 2026
Passengers take an evening train ride from the wilderness of Williams to an illuminated North Pole to see Santa Claus and his reindeer. During the journey, guests listen to Chris Van Allsburg's classic story while enjoying hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies. At the depot, visitors can also meet the Hobo, visit with wandering elves, listen to story time with Mrs. Claus, and take photos with Santa.
What to Expect
Enchanted train ride from Williams to the North Pole to meet Santa.
Event Details
Duration
The total round-trip time is approximately 90 minutes.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Grand Canyon Railway
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies are served aboard the train.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Magical and festive
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Nightly departures at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. (Arizona Mountain Standard Time).
- Parking: Parking is free and is available around the hotel and depot complex. There is a parking lot east of Grand Canyon Blvd. as you enter the Railway’s complex as well as parking west of the hotel.
- Accessibility: Not all rail cars are ADA accessible; guests needing wheelchair, lift, or scooter assistance must contact reservations at least 7 days prior to arrival.
- Pets: The Grand Canyon Railway Pet Resort is on site, and reservations are taken by phone only.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least an hour and a half before departure to collect will-call tickets and be ready, since boarding starts 15 minutes before the train leaves.
- Allow a few extra minutes to find parking, because as many as 3,000 people can be on the property on Polar Express nights.
- Book seats in even numbers, because the train's bench seats hold two passengers each.
- Bring your own copy of The Polar Express to read along, or buy one at the Depot or Fred Harvey Restaurant gift shops.
- Leave strollers in the covered areas by the depot, because there's little room for them in the vestibules between train cars.
Special Events & Promotions
- New for 2026: reservations booked on or after August 10 get a full refund up to 14 days before departure and half back within 14 days.
- The Polar Express Package bundles train tickets, a one-night hotel stay, and one dinner and one breakfast per person at the Fred Harvey Restaurant, with discounts on the room and meals.
- The Ultimate Polar Express Experience offers first-class historic cars for guests who want a private car.
- On Polar Express nights, the Fred Harvey Restaurant serves its full buffet plus special holiday desserts.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens on the ride?
The train travels at night from Williams to the North Pole, where Santa and his reindeer are waiting. On the way, everyone has hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies while the story is read.
What is there to do before boarding?
Mrs. Claus reads stories and Mr. Claus poses for pictures in the Polar Room. Kids can try the Naughty or Nice Meter. Elves and the Hobo wander the platform, and the Hobo shares hobo wisdom at his campsite about 45 minutes before departure.
Where do we pick up our tickets?
Package guests get their train tickets when they check in at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel front desk. Will-call tickets are at the ticket counter inside the depot, next to the Fred Harvey Restaurant. The person who paid needs to show a photo ID.
How does seating work?
Seats are benches for two, so booking in even numbers is strongly recommended. You can ask to sit with another party at checkout, but seating requests aren't guaranteed.
Is alcohol allowed on the train?
No. Adult drinks are served at the Fred Harvey Restaurant and at Spenser's Pub inside the hotel.
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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.