Get ready to bring the beloved Christmas tale—The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg—to life when you board the POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the Delaware River Railroad Excursions in Phillipsburg, NJ. Juggling chefs, holiday carols, and, of course, steaming cups of hot chocolate are all part of the magical 90-minute trip to meet Santa, creating a memorable experience and holiday magic for the whole family. So put on those Christmas PJs (matching not required), and get on board the Polar Express in NJ—scroll down for what to expect on this timeless holiday event. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM).
The Polar Express Train Ride
The platform is bustling at The Polar Express. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
Feel the holiday energy
Get ready to get into the holiday spirit—as you make your way through the entrance to the ticket area, the entire place is decked out with big rainbow lights, a massive inflatable tree, and presents decorating the pathway. As you walk by everyone in their holiday PJs heading to the train, you can’t help but get excited for the experience ahead.
Views from the top of the train are festive as you find your way to your seat. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
All aboard
As you step onto the Polar Express train car and settle into your seat, excitement builds as the car hosts make their way through the train, punching each passenger’s golden ticket. Soon, the real fun begins—dancing chefs come out to serve hot chocolate and delicious cookies. After everyone has been served, the timeless tale *The Polar Express* by Chris Van Allsburg is read aloud while music from the Polar Express movie plays during the ride to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
The Polar Express juggler keeps the crowd entertained. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
Stealing the show
Special touches throughout the 90-minute ride make the Polar Express experience unforgettable for your kids. At the beginning of the train ride, “Santa’s” elf checks to see who has been naughty or nice—be sure to get a selfie with the elf before he leaves. He is full of jokes to entertain kids and adults, serving as a warm-up before the juggling chefs arrive. These chefs steal the show as they juggle and engage with the riders, creating an atmosphere just like in the movie. The highlight for everyone is when Santa appears, filling the train car with joy as he and his helpers greet the passengers. Each guest receives an iconic souvenir from the book and film: a silver bell from Santa’s sleigh, complete with a velvet ribbon, to remind everyone of the true spirit of Christmas.
Food is available for purchase near the train. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
What to know before you go
Before and after the train ride, you can enjoy the mini-festival at the platform. A food truck serves hot dogs, french fries, and festival specialties, and there is a tented picnic area to eat in. Inside the tent, you can admire decorated trees and other light decorations. Once you enter the train, there is open seating. Hot chocolate and cookies are served during the train ride. The Polar Express runs for select dates: November 29 and 30 and December 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 and 22, 2024. The train rides run on Fridays at 6 PM and 8 PM, Saturdays at 2 PM, 4 PM, 6 PM, and 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM, 4 PM, and 6 PM. The experience is $38 per child and $48 per adult. NJ MOM tip: If you miss the train ride this year, it is recommended that you buy your tickets as early as July 2025 next year.
For more information, visit The Polar Express Train Ride with Delaware River Railroad Excursions website, Facebook, and Instagram.
The Polar Express Train Ride – Delaware River Railroad Excursions
38 Market Street
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865
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