If you’re looking for a magical way to celebrate the holiday season, what could be better than a cozy holiday train ride? Across the United States, holiday train journeys offer a front-row seat to stunning winter landscapes, twinkling lights, and festive cheer. Each of the best Polar Express trips is an opportunity to step into a world where holiday traditions come alive—whether through dazzling decorations, cheerful carolers, or even a visit from Santa Claus himself. As you climb aboard, you’re transported to a place where time slows down and the simple joys of the season will take center stage. In this story, you’ll explore some of the most enchanting holiday train rides in America, with each offering its own unique way to capture the spirit of the season.
Holiday Train Rides Across The USA
Adirondack Railroad Polar Express, New York
In Utica, New York, the Adirondack Railroad brings the beloved Polar Express story to life with charm and magic. You board the train in cozy pajamas, greeted by cheerful conductors and twinkling holiday decorations. Along the way, hot cocoa and cookies are served as the iconic tale is narrated. The train transports you to the North Pole, where Santa greets each child with a bell and warm wishes. The snowy Adirondack scenery outside adds a touch of natural beauty to this heartwarming holiday tradition.
Branson Scenic Railway Polar Express, Missouri
This festive ride will capture the charm of Branson’s holiday traditions in a vintage train that feels like a time capsule. In fact, you can hear the hiss of the steam engine as you settle into your seat, where holiday treats await. Animated storytellers bring one of the best Polar Express trains to life, while outside, the Ozark Mountains are dressed in their winter best. What’s more, a visit from Santa tops off the experience, with every child receiving a special gift. That’s not to mention a new afternoon show on select trips this month. By the end of the trip, you’re ready to embrace the holiday spirit, Branson style. You can find the Branson Scenic Railway’s depot on Main Street, in the heart of downtown Branson.
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Central Railroad Polar Express (credit: New England Traveler)
Cape Cod Central Railroad Train to Christmas Town, Massachusetts
Whisk away into a storybook world as this Polar Express train takes you along Cape Cod’s scenic coastline. Indeed, the story of Christmas Town unfolds as characters interact with passengers, bringing the tale to life. Outside, the quiet beauty of the snow-covered landscape complements the festive spirit inside. Children delight in meeting Santa, who makes his rounds with gifts and holiday cheer. The blend of storytelling and stunning views makes this ride truly memorable. Just head on over to the Hyannis Depot or Buzzards Bay Depot to meet your holiday train.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s North Pole Adventure, Ohio
In Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this train ride will immerse you in the enchanting world of the North Pole Adventure. To illustrate, you’ll wear your coziest pajamas as the holiday train departs into a landscape blanketed in snow. Storytellers read the beloved tale aloud, while elves distribute hot cocoa and cookies. The excitement builds as the train arrives at the North Pole, where Santa awaits with gifts for all. It’s a heartwarming experience that captures the magic of the holidays.
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Polar Express Train Ride (credit: Durango Train)
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado
In the heart of the Colorado Rockies, this historic train ride whisks you away into a winter paradise. You feel the chill in the air as the holiday train departs, winding its way through snow-draped forests and alongside icy rivers. Inside the vintage cars, a warm, festive ambiance surrounds you, with holiday music playing softly and cheerful decorations adorning every surface. As the train nears its destination, the sight of twinkling lights and Santa’s Workshop fills you with anticipation. By the end of the trip, you’re already planning a return visit to this winter wonderland.
Georgetown Loop Railroad Holiday Train, Colorado
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, this narrow-gauge railroad offers a winter adventure you’ll never forget. The train chugs through steep mountain passes, offering panoramic views of snowy peaks and frosted pine trees. Inside, the holiday train cars are warm and festive, with garlands, lights, and music setting the mood. As you cross a towering trestle bridge, the scene feels like something out of a holiday fairytale. What’s more, with a visit from Santa included, this train ride is perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express, North Carolina
This North Carolina entry offers a classic Polar Express experience with stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. As you sip on cocoa and enjoy holiday treats, the train takes you through a scenic landscape of forests and rivers. The story unfolds with animated narrators and lively elves, keeping passengers of all ages entertained. A stop at the North Pole brings the excitement to its peak, as Santa boards with gifts for everyone. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and holiday magic. Not long after Hurricane Helene went through Western North Carolina, this is a thankful way to celebrate the holidays. You can find the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s Polar Express in Bryson City.
Roaring Camp Holiday Lights Train (credit: Roaring Camp Railroads)
Holiday Lights Train from Roaring Camp Railroad, California
Departing from the charming Roaring Camp Railroad in Felton, California, this festive train journey takes you to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in dazzling style. As the vintage train rolls through towering redwood forests, the crisp evening air is filled with the sounds of holiday music. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the route, adding a magical glow to the scenic surroundings. Onboard, you sip hot cocoa and join in caroling, while Santa greets passengers with warm holiday wishes. The ride concludes at the lively Beach Boardwalk, where more holiday festivities await, making it a perfect combination of nature and cheer. For instance, the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster and Loof Carousel should be high on your list of things to do.
Mount Hood Polar Express Train, Oregon
As you board the Mount Hood Railroad, you’re swept into a world of holiday magic nestled in Oregon’s breathtaking Cascade Range. The Polar Express train takes you through lush forests blanketed in snow, offering postcard-perfect views at every turn. Santa and his elves visit the cozy, decorated cars, handing out small gifts and posing for photos with children. You sip on spiced cider and nibble on cookies as the train chugs along, and you can’t help but feel the joy of the season. The experience is both intimate and grand, leaving you with memories to treasure.
Santa Train (credit: Visit Vallejo)
Napa Valley Wine Train – Santa Train, California
You board this luxurious train in the heart of wine country, where holiday festivities meet world-class dining. As the train glides through the scenic Napa Valley, you enjoy a gourmet meal paired with locally sourced wines. Meanwhile, holiday characters, including Santa Claus himself, entertain children in the decorated cars. The combination of elegant dining, breathtaking vineyard views, and holiday cheer creates a uniquely sophisticated seasonal experience. By the time you disembark, the spirit of the season—and maybe a bottle of Napa Valley wine—are firmly in hand.
New Hope Railroad North Pole Express, Pennsylvania
This historic train, with its charmingly restored cars, offers a picturesque ride through Pennsylvania’s scenic countryside. You’re greeted with festive music and warm lights as you settle into your seat. Along the journey, Santa and his helpers make their rounds, spreading cheer and posing for photos. The train’s route takes you past snow-covered fields and charming towns, each more beautiful than the last. By the time you return, you feel as though you’ve stepped into a simpler, more magical time. After you get on board your holiday train at the New Hope Railroad station, you might want to consider adding a photo opportunity to complete your visit.
North Pole Express – Essex Steam Train, Connecticut
This historic steam train ride transports you to the enchanting North Pole. You’re surrounded by vintage décor and festive lights as the train puffs its way through a snowy landscape. Along the way, Santa and Mrs. Claus visit each car, greeting passengers and sharing stories. When the train arrives at the North Pole, the magical village sparkles in the distance, with elves busy at work. On your return journey, you can’t help but hum along to carols played by the onboard musicians. Please note that you must purchase tickets online, as no phone or in-person sales are available at the depot.
The Polar Express (credit: Grand Canyon Railway)
Polar Express – Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona
As you step onto the Grand Canyon Railway train, you’re greeted by cheerful staff dressed as elves and waiters, bringing the pages of The Polar Express to life. The journey begins with the soft rhythm of the rails as the story unfolds around you, complete with hot cocoa and cookies served to everyone on board. Children’s laughter fills the car as Santa boards the train at the North Pole, handing out silver bells to each passenger. Through the large windows, you glimpse a sparkling desert winter wonderland illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. By the end of the ride, you feel like you’ve just experienced a classic holiday story firsthand. By the way, there’s another famous Polar Express train attraction just an hour south in Williams, Arizona.
Polar Express Train Ride – California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento
At the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, this Polar Express comes alive in a festive and immersive experience. You step aboard a historic train, greeted by friendly conductors and a cabin filled with holiday cheer. As the train journeys through the night, you enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and a live retelling of the beloved story. The excitement peaks as the train reaches the North Pole, where Santa boards to distribute silver bells to every passenger. With the combination of storytelling, interactive fun, and the charm of historic trains, this ride perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season.
Texas State Railroad Polar Express, Texas
Deep in the heart of Texas, this vintage Polar Express train ride offers a festive escape into the Lone Star State’s holiday traditions. The journey begins in a station glowing with lights and decorations, setting the tone for the experience. Onboard, you’re treated to storytelling, music, and visits from holiday characters, including Santa. The train winds through the piney woods, offering a unique perspective on Texas’ natural beauty during the winter. By the end of the trip, you’re filled with holiday cheer and a newfound appreciation for Texas’ charm. Don’t forget to use the special code to get 20% off your tickets when you make your purchase online.
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About The Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS for eight years. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a media fellowship from Stanford University and is a Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW) member. Lastly, Randy has nearly 25 years of professional experience in the transportation industry.
