01/10/2026
Beginning November 6th in Spencer, North Carolina…you can ride “The Polar Express” Train Ride with the North Carolina Transportation Museum, where the classic Christmas story comes to life aboard a decorated holiday train. Running on select dates through December 23, the experience includes a golden ticket, hot cocoa, a cookie, music, and live performances as the train makes its journey toward the North Pole. Families are welcome to wear pajamas, making the ride feel even more like the book and movie. Along the way, passengers can watch the story unfold with characters and holiday scenes before Santa joins the train. Every passenger receives a silver sleigh bell to take home. Standard, Deluxe, First Class, and Parlor Class seating are available, with upgraded classes adding keepsake drinkware, special treats, table seating, and other extras. Before boarding, guests can spend time around the festive event area, take holiday photos, visit Candy Cane Lane, see Santa before the ride, and grab seasonal food or drinks from vendors. Guests should arrive about 45 minutes before departure for parking, check-in, and boarding. Everyone age 2 and older needs a ticket, with departures running through the late afternoon and evening.
