Celebrate Christmas on Maine’s Magical Polar Express

All aboard the Polar Express in Maine for a holiday adventure the whole family will love! This festive train ride is full of holiday fun, from singing carols and sipping hot chocolate to hearing the classic story come alive.

Kids (and adults!) get to wear their pajamas, meet Santa, and even get a special gift, making it feel like you’ve stepped straight into the pages of the beloved book.

The train itself is Christmas cozy and decked out with lights and decorations, so it’s the perfect way to enjoy the holiday season.

You’ll laugh, sing, and maybe even spot some snowy Maine scenery outside the window as the train chugs along.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting the 207, the Polar Express in Maine is a festive outing that makes everyone feel the magic of the holidays.

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What is it?

The Polar Express, is an officially licensed holiday train experience, presented by the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum. It brings The Polar Express story to life with festive decorations, hot chocolate, cookies, music, and a snowy journey “to the North Pole.”

Where is it?

Located at 49 Thames Street at Ocean Gateway Marine Terminal in Portland’s waterfront district, which makes it a classic holiday setting right by the water.

What can you expect?

• Festive departure scene with characters and holiday music.
• Children receive golden tickets from the Conductor, just like in the book/movie.
• Onboard, stewards and chefs serve “hot, hot chocolate” and cookies.
• The train, pulled by a historic steam engine, embarks on a scenic round trip to the North Pole and back.
• At the North Pole, Santa Claus boards and gives every child the “first gift of Christmas,” a silver sleigh bell.
• Holiday songs and caroling continue on the return trip.

When is it?

The Polar Express Train Ride runs on select dates from now through December 27th, with no departures on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Saturday, December 13
2:45pm/4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

Sunday, December 14
1:30pm/2:45pm/4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm

Thursday, December 18
4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm

Friday, December 19
4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

Saturday, December 20
2:45pm/4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

Sunday, December 21
1:30pm/2:45pm/4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm

Monday, December 22
4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

Tuesday, December 23
4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

Friday, December 26
4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

Saturday, December 27
4:00pm/5:15pm/6:30pm/7:45pm

How much are tickets?

Coach Class: $35–$40 per person

First Class: $60–$65 per person

Presidential Class: $99–$105 per person

You can purchase tickets here