The captivating story comes to life the minute the train departs the Palestine Depot for the journey to the North Pole. The adventure is even more fun when families and friends show up in their pajamas!

Enveloped by the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the tale as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride.  Once onboard, chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies as they recite the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Be sure to purchase a book along with your tickets so your child can read his/her own book along with the chefs.

At the North Pole, Santa and his elves greet passengers and then board the train. St. Nick gives everyone the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell, only believers can hear ringing. On the ride back to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride depot, chefs lead passengers in singing joyous Christmas carols.

Make sure to purchase the official THE POLAR EXPRESS™  book for your child when you make your reservations. Gift-wrapped as their first gift of the season, they can read along with the Coco Chefs aboard the magical journey to the North Pole.

“The Polar Express was amazing! We were in car 2 on Saturday 12/16 and all the staff members were fantastic! The “chefs” were amazing and really got the kids into it! Thank you so much for all the hard work that is put into this event! It really gives off the true Christmas Spirit!”

Mary Anne B.

We have been to so many Polar Express railroads. This one was one of the absolute best! So much fun, joy, and engagement for everyone. They involved the kids and parents. Great dancing in a small narrow walkway. I walked away super impressed. Our chefs were high school students who were so professional yet so fun! I can’t sing their praises enough! We were in Car 2 on Dec 15, 2023! Definitely the best car with the best staff! wow wow wow! We will be back!

Monti P.

Service Suspension Notice – June 12-14 and June 20-21, 2025

Due to inclement weather and for the safety of our guests and crew, all Texas State Railroad train excursions scheduled for Thursday, June 12, Friday, June 13, Saturday, June 14, Friday, June 20, and Saturday, June 21, 2025 have been cancelled.

What this means for you:

  • All tickets for excursions on these dates are eligible for a full refund or rescheduling, per our standard cancellation and refund policy
  • Our Reservations Team is available to assist you with rebooking at 1‑855‑632‑7729 or via email at tsrrinfo@jag‑transport.com.
    Please note we are experiencing high-call volume, so please leave a message and we will be in touch as soon as possible.
     
  • We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding—guest safety is our top priority.


Please monitor our website and social media channels for updates on resumed operations. We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon, under better skies!

Stay safe, and thank you for your continued support.

The Texas State Railroad Team