We are excited to invite passengers to ride in comfort and privacy on our vintage railcar during their trip to the North Pole on THE POLAR EXPRESS.

Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS. Once onboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers listen to the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train, where each child is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. Chefs aboard each car lead passengers in singing Christmas carols on the ride back to the Depot.

General Reserved Seating: Enjoy the enthusiasm and excitement in the 1920’s coaches with table seating. Your friends and family will be entertained by hot chocolate dancers, and many of the characters you find in the storybook. Chef will serve hot chocolate and cookies to all passengers. On the return trip, Santa will visit each passenger and present the “first gift of Christmas” (sleigh bell). Everyone is a kid on THE POLAR EXPRESS! The golden ticket is yours to keep and remember this popular holiday tradition. Click here for photos.

Premier First Class Seating: This historic 1920s Business Car offers two (2) unique settings for groups and families. Tickets may be purchased as a unit ensuring that your party is seated together in a comfortable and safe situation for your memorable ride to pick up Santa at the North Pole. Here is what you can expect with the Premier Seating:

Every Passenger in the Premier Car, referred to as the #99 car of Spokane, Portland & Seattle Railway (SP&S) will find a collector’s Polar Express mug and gift bag as they take their seats. Enjoy a reading of The Polar Express story and the magic that’s served with hot chocolate and cookies. Be prepared for imaginative delight when Caribou cross the tracks just before the train arrives at The North Pole. Upon arrival, the train is met by Santa and his elves and once they board, the train departs for home. During the return trip, Santa will greet and visit with each group and bestow the First Gift of Christmas to each passenger. Every area has windows to see the North Pole and watch while Santa boards the train appointed with 1950’s style furniture and details. We accommodate groups up to 6 or 8. Click here for photos.
*Note: this area is recommended for those with sensory processing concerns.

All Areas: We want everyone to be comfortable and have a wonderful experience. To manage your expectations we want to let you know that as in 1950’s standards, there is limited heating and an RV style restroom is provided in the general seating coach connected to the 99 car. Aisles are narrow, so wheelchair seating is not available.

Blankets, fuzzy jammies and cozy scarves are encouraged. Our Depot Gift Shop offers a variety of Polar Express blankets, socks and scarves along with ornaments, toys and gift items that are not available through any other source, except those of us who host THE POLAR EXPRESS.

Please arrive ½ hour prior to departure. Check in at the ticket counter and receive your boarding pass with seating information and the golden ticket. Line up on the deck as you await instructions from the conductor.