Illustration of a red toy train with small snowmen riders rolling through a snowy miniature village with pine trees (The Polar Express Train Ride)

The Polar Express Train Ride

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

All aboard for a magical journey on The Polar Express™! Families return year after year for this enchanting nighttime train ride to the North Pole. Experience a live retelling of the beloved holiday tale with costumed actors, music, and narration. Enjoy cocoa and treats delivered to your seat, and receive a special silver bell from Santa. Various seating options are available, from cozy benches to private rooms, ensuring a memorable holiday tradition for everyone.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Tickets

$$

Ages

Guests two years and older require a ticket. Children under 24 months ride free on a parent's lap.

Food & Drink

Cocoa and treats (including gluten-free options) are delivered to seats. Ceramic mugs and cookies are provided with VIP seating.

Parking

Strollers, large diaper bags, and extra baggage cannot be accommodated on the train; please leave these items at the depot or in your car.

Accessibility

Wheelchair ramps are available on-site. Contact them before arrival for assistance boarding. Wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers must be left at the depot.

Going?

Location

V&T Railway · 4650 Eastgate Siding Road, Carson City, NV Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Magical, festive, enchanting

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to pick up tickets and avoid missing the train, as late arrivals will depart without refunds.
  • Consider wearing pajamas or festive attire to fully immerse yourself in the magical experience.
  • Book tickets early, especially for peak times, as seating is assigned and sells out quickly.
  • Leave large personal items like strollers and diaper bags at home or in your car, as train seating and storage are limited.
  • The train operates rain or shine, so plan accordingly for any weather conditions.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Tickets go on sale September 2025
  • New lights and décor at the North Pole stop each year
  • Keepsake ceramic mugs and cookies with VIP seating options

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 contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Polar Express tickets go on sale?

Tickets typically go on sale in September on their website. Signing up for their newsletter can provide reminders.

How are tickets sold?

Tickets can be booked online or by calling 775 686-9037. Seats fill quickly, so early reservation is recommended.

Who needs a ticket?

Guests two years and older require a ticket. Children under 24 months ride free on a parent's lap.

Is the event handicapped accessible?

Wheelchair ramps are available on-site. Contact them before arrival for assistance boarding. Wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers must be left at the depot.

What happens if there's inclement weather?

The diesel train operates rain or shine, so the experience will proceed regardless of weather conditions.

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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.

Contributors & Updates

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