What to Expect
As the familiar soundtrack fills the air, guests step into the world of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride for an unforgettable 65-minute holiday adventure. The train sets out on a festive journey, passing classic railroad scenery, small town neighborhoods, and dense stretches of the Hoosier National Forest. Leading up to the journey’s most magical moment, the train enters Flat Top tunnel and emerges at the North Pole.
Along the way, your Conductor punches each ticket while dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies. Passengers follow the story together by reading the beloved children’s book The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. Upon arrival, Santa and his helpers board the train to greet every guest and present the first gift of Christmas — a silver sleigh bell.
On the return trip, cheerful elves lead caroling and onboard entertainment in each car, filling the train with music, laughter, and holiday spirit. Every child heads home with a keepsake sleigh bell and memories that will last a lifetime.
NOTICE: This experience includes flashing or strobe lighting sequences that may affect individuals with photosensitive epilepsy or other light-sensitive conditions. Guest discretion is advised.
Classes of Service
2026 Pricing Calendar
Lower Coach
Lower Level Coach Class includes seating in our Bi-Level cars and on the lower level of our DMU commuter coaches. Bi-Level cars seat approximately 80 guests on padded bench seating, while lower-level DMU coaches offer comfortable high-back seats, including ADA-accessible seating. Guests are welcomed aboard by a conductor, served hot chocolate and a cookie by dancing chefs, presented with the first gift of Christmas by Santa himself, and entertained by singing and dancing elves on the return journey from the North Pole!
*Bi-Level seating may be purchased per seat. Cars 704, 7001, and 7002 must be purchased per section. Most sections include 4 seats.
Upper Coach
Upper Coach Class offers seating exclusively on the upper level of our DMU commuter coaches. These cars accommodate over 100 guests in comfortable high-back seating and provide an elevated view of the journey to the North Pole. Guests are welcomed aboard by a conductor, served hot chocolate and a cookie by dancing chefs, presented with the first gift of Christmas by Santa himself, and delighted by singing and dancing elves on the return journey from the North Pole!
Please note: access to the upper-level DMU coach area requires climbing approximately 13 steps. Upper-level tickets must also be purchased per section. Most sections include 4 seats.
First Class
First Class offers table seating in a more intimate setting with fewer passengers than Coach Class. Guests are welcomed by a conductor, served hot chocolate and a cookie by dancing chefs, presented with the first gift of Christmas by Santa himself, and then entertained by singing and dancing elves on the return journey from the North Pole! Each guest will also take home a souvenir ceramic Hot Chocolate mug.
Dome Class
Ride in the upper dome of our Northern Pacific Vista-Dome coach for a stunning 360° view from the train. Guests are welcomed by a conductor, served hot chocolate and a selection of cookies served by dancing chefs, presented the first gift of Christmas by Santa himself, and then entertained by singing and dancing elves on the return journey from the North Pole! Each guest will take home the annual souvenir ceramic Hot Chocolate mug AND an exclusive special gift!