On-Board the North Pole Express, settle in for some storytelling. Enjoy milk and cookies as you listen to our unique story of Christmas in Appalachia, "Yes, West Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.” Story characters dance through your car to our Holiday production of the "Nutcracker" and hear how “The Potomac Eagle Saves Christmas.” Book the North Pole Express today!
Watch as the dark night is suddenly aglow with thousands of twinkling lights at the North Pole. Santa and Mrs Claus wave from their porch as children spy playful elves among the trees. To the delight of all, Santa boards the train with a gift for every child as we carol our way home.
Visit the Christmas Event Barn to experience fresh country festivities. See live animals at our petting farm, visit the Nativity, roast s'mores, and purchase refreshments. Relax while children color or write Santa letters for deposit in our special North Pole mailboxes. With beautiful photo ops available, music and entertainment, it is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
At the Gift Shop, purchase North Pole Express mementos, Christmas gifts, and train souvenirs.
On the Train:
- 75-minute interactive train ride
- Milk and Mrs. Claus’ famous cookies
- Storytelling
- Christmas caroling
- Santa boards train at the North Pole
- Every child receives a gift from Santa
At the Event Barn:
- Event barn with activities
- Letters to Santa
- Coloring stations
- Great photo ops
- Nativity with live animals
- Hot cocoa, snacks as well as s’mores pits*
*Additional cost “Cash Only”
Your Itinerary
- Plan to arrive about 2 hours before your departure time
- Check in with the ticket window upon arrival
- Plan to visit the Event Barn for festivities before or after your ride
- Boarding time is ½ hour before departure
- Depart and journey northbound to the North Pole for an hour and 15 minute magical journey with no layover
- No meal service, but enjoy milk with your Mrs. Clause cookie
- Deboard at the station and visit the Event Barn (closes at 7:00pm) and Gift Shop
Classes of Service and Pricing
Everyone is invited to come aboard in your favorite pajamas to enjoy milk and cookies served in your choice of First Class dining cars or vintage casual Standard Coach.
First Class
Our vintage 1940/50s dining cars feature comfortable table style and lounge style seating. These beautifully restored cars offer expansive views and have total climate control for your comfort needs. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the festivities in a holiday setting for the whole family.
3PM, 5PM & 7PM:
- Adults (17+): $67
- Children (2-16): $57
- Lap Children (0-23 mos): Free
Standard Coach
Our 1920s coaches are great for groups and families. The cars have cushioned, bench-style. The windows offer abundant views and can be opened for more expansive and interactive viewing at the North Pole when Santa boards the train. The coach cars have limited heating, but do not have total climate control. We suggest passengers dress in layers and bring warm blankets for a comfortable journey in our vintage, festive cars.
3PM, 5PM & 7PM:
- Adults (17+): $57
- Children (2-16): $47
- Lap Children (0-23 mos): FREE
James Auer
January 30, 2023
Great ride
Christian Boyd
January 25, 2023
This is a simple, slow-paced trip aboard an attractive 1950's-era train that gives you plenty of time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature with your loved ones. We chose Standard Dining, which is climate-controlled and included a basic but adequate lunch (cold sub, chips, water, etc). After our meal, we walked through the train to the open-air car for an unobstructed view. It was a very enjoyable experience and we would love to do it again.
Ally Quigley
January 16, 2023
I loved my experience on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad! I cant wait to come back again! Here is a picture from my travels!
David Kaplan
January 6, 2023
Potomac Eagle puts on a good show for the Polar Express. Definitely plan to do a fall trip too at some point in the future.
Maggie
January 4, 2023
Loved the North Pole Express
PATRICK franzen
January 2, 2023
Most incredible time with my friends on the dinner train! Can't tell you the last time I had such a good time! Cheers to the Patomac Eagle Railroad!
Allen
January 2, 2023
Great experience for the kids. My granddaughter thoroughly enjoyed the show that put on for us.
PROFESSIONAL ESCALATOR CLEANING of BANKS-EC
December 31, 2022
Most amazing experience ever, truly magical, felt like we were at Disney World 8n the mountains. Can't wait to go back. Highly recommended, especially if you have kids...
North Pole Express Cancellation Policy
NPE Ticket sales are non-refundable. If you need to cancel, an in-house credit can be held for a future excursion (subject to availability- Excluding third party vouchers) through October 31st, 2024. If Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad cancels a trip due to inclement weather, we will do our best to reschedule your party on another 2023 North Pole Express trip. If no reschedule can be made, an in-house credit will be held until October 31st, 2024.
*Full credit in both First Class and Standard Coach can be held only if cancellations/date changes are made one week prior to the excursion date. If cancellations & date changes are less than one week prior to the excursion, a $10 service fee per ticket will be charged to reschedule.
*All North Pole Express In-House Credits from the 2022 season, expire on October 31st, 2023.
*North Pole Express Ticket reschedules can only be made for the same North Pole Express season (NPE). NPE tickets cannot transfer to NPE the following year.
