All Aboard for Christmas Magic: THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Returns to Rowan County
From November 6 through December 23, 2026, families can step inside the story of Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved holiday classic during an immersive experience combining live theater, music, dancing and a real train ride through the historic museum grounds.
So put on your coziest pajamas, grab your golden ticket and get ready to believe. 🚂🎄✨
Need to Know Details for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
- Select dates from November 6–December 23, 2026
- N.C. Transportation Museum
- 1 Samuel Spencer Drive, Spencer, NC 28159
- Tickets are required and advance reservations are strongly recommended
2026 Event Dates
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is scheduled for:
- November 6–8
- November 13–15
- November 20–22
- November 27–29
- December 4–6
- December 10–23
Multiple departure times are available on event days. Some dates, times and seating classes may sell out quickly, so families are encouraged to reserve tickets as early as possible.
View departure times and purchase tickets.
Step Into the Story
The approximately 70-minute experience begins as the train arrives at Barber Junction Visitor Center. Before boarding, guests will watch a short live performance inspired by The Polar Express.
Once aboard the train, passengers can enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie while listening to a reading of the holiday story. Music, singing and dancing bring the passenger cars to life as the train makes its way toward the North Pole.
It is a holiday adventure designed to make families feel as though they have stepped directly into the pages of the story.
Choose Your Experience
Train A and Train B offer the same performance but depart at different times. Both trains include Standard, Deluxe and First Class seating, while Parlor Class is available exclusively on Train A.
Standard Class
Standard Class includes padded coach seating without tables. Each passenger receives hot chocolate in a paper cup, a cookie, a golden ticket and a silver sleigh bell.
Deluxe Class
Deluxe Class features padded coach seating without tables. Passengers receive hot chocolate in a keepsake tumbler, a special treat, a cookie, a golden ticket and a silver sleigh bell.
First Class
First Class passengers sit at tables for two, four or six people. The experience includes hot chocolate in a keepsake ceramic mug, a special treat, a cookie, a golden ticket and a silver sleigh bell.
All seats at a First Class table must be purchased, even if the entire table will not be occupied.
Parlor Class
Available only on Train A, Parlor Class offers four-person table seating. In addition to the First Class amenities, each table receives a hardbound copy of The Polar Express signed by Santa Claus.
All passengers ages 2 and older require a ticket and their own seat. One child younger than 2 may ride free on the lap of each paying adult.
Pajamas Are Encouraged
Yes, the entire family can wear pajamas—and it is part of the fun!
Guests are encouraged to dress in their warmest holiday pajamas and bring a copy of The Polar Express to follow along during the reading. Because portions of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride and both live performances take place outdoors, be sure to layer up and dress for the weather.
Closed-toe shoes with nonslip soles are recommended. Passenger cars are heated, but guests will spend time walking, waiting outdoors and watching performances before and during the journey.
Arrive Early and Explore Candy Cane Lane
Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure. This will give your family time to park, walk to Barber Junction Visitor Center and find the boarding line for your assigned train car.
Trains cannot be held for late passengers, and missed departures are not eligible for refunds.
Before or after your ride, stop by Candy Cane Lane for holiday photo opportunities. Professional photographs with Santa will be available for purchase, but there is no obligation to buy a photo package.
Food and beverage vendors are also expected to offer snacks, kettle corn, hot dogs, hamburgers and other options. S’more kits will be available for purchase near fire pits located throughout the event area.
Know Before You Go
A few helpful details can make your family’s journey even smoother:
- Free parking is available at the museum.
- Strollers and car seats are not permitted aboard the train, but designated stroller parking will be available.
- Restrooms and changing stations are located near Barber Junction Visitor Center.
- Food is not sold aboard the train beyond the included hot chocolate and cookie.
- Guests with food allergies may bring an alternative snack to give to train staff.
- Tickets are nonrefundable and cannot be exchanged.
- Regular museum admission is not included with a ticket to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride.
- Museum exhibit buildings will be closed during the evening experience.
Limited wheelchair-accessible seating is available in the Jingle car on Train A and the Noel car on Train B. Guests who need accessible seating should review the museum’s THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride FAQ carefully before purchasing tickets.
Believe in the Magic
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride has become a treasured holiday tradition for families across North Carolina. Against the historic backdrop of the N.C. Transportation Museum, the story comes to life through the sights and sounds of a real train journey.
Whether this is your family’s first trip to the North Pole or an experience you return to year after year, it is a chance to slow down, make memories and celebrate the wonder of the season together.
Reserve your seats, find your warmest pajamas and listen carefully for the sound of a silver sleigh bell.
All included photos are courtesy of the N.C. Transportation Museum.
