A holiday adventure in an unlikely location
This holiday season, why not dive into the magic of The Polar Express with a real-life Polar Express journey? Running from mid-November through December, this event transports you to a holiday wonderland aboard the Polar Express train. Here’s everything you need to know for a truly unforgettable holiday experience.
Imagine the train station decorated just like a vintage holiday postcard. As you board, and the train whistle blows, a sense of excitement fills the air, mingling with the sound of festive music and the soft glow of twinkling lights. Passengers, wrapped in scarves and mittens, can already feel the warmth of adventure that's about to unfold.
What is The Polar Express?
The Polar Express experience brings the magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday story to life. As you board the train, you’ll be transported to a festive wonderland where passengers of all ages can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs.
As the train chugs along the scenic tracks, the beloved story of The Polar Express unfolds right before your eyes. Engaging storytellers weave the tale, accompanied by performers recreating iconic scenes. It's a live-action journey that connects you with your travel companions; it feels like a cozy gathering around a fireplace for a cherished family tale.
The storybook narration sets the stage as the train makes its way to "the North Pole.” Children and adults alike will be enchanted by Santa’s visit, where he gifts each child the special silver sleigh bell, just as in the original tale. It’s an immersive, heartwarming holiday tradition ideal for families looking to make lasting memories.
What holiday adventure is complete without some delicious treats? Uniformed chefs serve hot chocolate so rich and creamy, it's like sipping on sweet magic. Paired with scrumptious cookies, these treats warm you from the inside out.
As the train approaches its destination, the excitement peaks. The North Pole emerges from the frosty landscape, a winter wonderland with Santa's Village bustling in all its glory. Passengers disembark to breathe in the festive atmosphere, where carolers sing classic tunes and the anticipation of meeting Santa grows ever stronger.
Santa, adorned in his red suit and twinkling eyes, makes his rounds on the train, greeting each guest and handing out special Christmas bells—a keepsake for believers of all ages.
Where is The Polar Express?
The Polar Express departs from the historic Grand Canyon Railway Depot in Williams, Arizona, a charming town just a short drive from Flagstaff. Not where you expected, right? The depot itself adds to the nostalgic charm, with vintage trains and a cozy holiday atmosphere. The location makes it easy to combine this experience with a trip to the Grand Canyon if you’d like, allowing for a holiday filled with both adventure and relaxation. With nearby hotels and wintertime activities, Williams is a perfect holiday getaway spot for families, couples, and friends alike.
The ultimate experience!
Picture courtesy of Grand Canyon Railway
What Levels of Service are Available?
The Polar Express offers three service classes: Coach Class, First Class, and Luxury Dome Class.
Coach Class: Guests enjoy comfortable seating in festively decorated cars, surrounded by the excitement of other passengers as they sip hot cocoa, nibble cookies, and listen to the Polar Express story.
First Class: Adds a touch of luxury with upgraded, cushier seats, extra treats, and a more personalized service.
Luxury Dome Class: Provides the best views with seating in the upper dome car, giving passengers a panoramic look at the winter landscape. Perfect for those who want an elevated experience, this class includes additional refreshments and premium perks for a truly exclusive holiday treat. If you want to make this a platinum occasion, the Ultimate Polar Express Experience is a must. Enjoy personal attention from Santa's helpers and exclusive holiday surprises that make this journey truly unforgettable.
When should you reserve your experience on The Polar Express?
Tickets for The Polar Express sell out quickly each year. It’s best to book as early as possible to get your preferred dates and seats. There are both weekday and weekend options to fit into busy holiday schedules. Early reservations also give you access to special family packages and seasonal discounts that make the experience even more rewarding. So book soon, because tickets are limited and disappear faster than the last gingerbread cookie on the holiday plate!
Reach out and let me help you have a holiday experience that sparkles with joy, connection, and wonder!
Comments