THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in Galveston, Texas

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is an immersive family-oriented experience at the Galveston Railroad Museum held every year during the holiday season.

2025 Date(s): Nov 14 - Dec 23, 2025

Event Details

The adventure comes to life when the train departs for a round-trip journey to the North Pole led by a cast of talented actors. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a one-hour trip to meet Santa.

Once on board, the conductor will work his way through the coach and punch golden tickets before hot chocolate and a delicious cookie are served by dancing chefs. Passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg.

Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas. During the trip, characters on each car lead fantastic onboard entertainment – just like in the film!

Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell and souvenir golden ticket in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical trip. Just like the kids in the book, families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride!

How much time should I plan for the full POLAR EXPRESS™ experience?

To get the full experience, we recommend allowing 2 hours for the entire event. The round-trip train time to the North Pole and back is 60 minutes. You’ll want to be at the Galveston Railroad Museum Train Depot 30 minutes before actual departure time in order to experience the performance that occurs as the train STEAMS into the station! Final boarding is 10 minutes before departure. After the train arrives at the North Pole, you will enjoy live entertainment and pick up Santa and his elves for the return trip.

How soon should I book my tickets?

For best seating we recommend you book your seats as soon as you are able to finalize your date. Certain departure times and certain cars book quickly! If you are in town during THE POLAR EXPRESS™ and have not made a reservation, please check with the Galveston Railroad Museum staff, as they often have tickets available on the same day!

What choices do I have when choosing what car I want to ride?

There are Standard, Deluxe, and Premium-class seating to choose from every night. All cars are heated. ALL children receive a bell. ALL cars are decorated for Christmas.

Standard-class: Seating: Forward-facing; two people per seat.
Deluxe-class: Seating: ‘Flip-over’ seating enables parties to face each other. Upgraded amenities include your own take-home souvenir ceramic THE POLAR EXPRESS™ mug.
Premium First-class: Seating: Table and chair seating in historic, first-class style as the whole family enjoys the upgraded amenities including your own take-home souvenir ceramic THE POLAR EXPRESS™ mug. Special ‘theme’ Christmas decor!

Is there a wheelchair-accessible car available on THE POLAR EXPRESS™?

Yes, their wheelchair-friendly coach has a hydraulic lift to load a passenger in their wheelchair into the coach to ride right along with family and friends. It also features an ADA restroom.

Where can I park my car?

Limited parking is available in the museum parking lot and overflow parking is located at an adjacent parking lot on Santa Fe Place. Parking fee is $20 advance and may be purchased online or $25 at the gate.

What time should I arrive at the station?

We ask that you arrive 30 minutes before your departure time. Don’t miss the pre-boarding show!

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