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New York "The Polar Express" Train Rides In The Adirondacks!

Published: October 26, 2025

By: Adam Burns

The Adirondack Railroad is a living thread through the heart of New York’s Adirondack Park, weaving history, scenery, and community into memorable excursions that run year-round from its busy hub at Utica’s grand Union Station.

Operated by the Adirondack Railway Preservation Society, the heritage line restores and operates former New York Central trackage, offering passengers everything from fall foliage adventures to wine-and-cheese trains.

Among its most beloved offerings is the official THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride, a licensed, theatrical experience that brings Chris Van Allsburg’s classic tale—and the magic of the holiday season—to life on steel rails.

A brief look at the railroad itself

The Adirondack Railroad traces its lineage to the New York Central’s Adirondack Division, once the primary artery connecting Utica with communities deep within the six-million-acre Adirondack Park. Saved and stewarded by volunteers and rail enthusiasts, the line has grown into a regional attraction, carrying tens of thousands of passengers annually. Its rolling stock includes heritage locomotives and vintage coaches that have been carefully restored for modern comfort while retaining a historic feel. The journey north from Utica passes through a corridor of rivers, forests, wetlands, and small towns, with stations such as Thendara (near Old Forge), Big Moose, and Tupper Lake anchoring seasonal schedules.

In recent years, significant state-backed rehabilitation of the corridor revitalized passenger service northward, enhancing speed, ride quality, and reliability. The result is a scenic railway that appeals equally to railfans, families, and travelers seeking a slower, more immersive way to experience the Adirondacks.

What sets Adirondack Railroad apart is the people. Volunteers are everywhere—in ticket offices, on platforms, and aboard trains—serving as conductors, car hosts, and storytellers. Their passion helps transform a train trip into an experience. That spirit is on full display during the holiday season when the railroad stages its signature event.

Inside the official THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride

THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride is an officially licensed adaptation of the beloved book and the Warner Bros. film, produced by Rail Events Inc. and presented by select railroads across North America. The Adirondack Railroad’s production embraces the full theatrical treatment: costumed characters, set pieces, soundscapes, choreography, and a script that mirrors the beats of the story.

Here’s what families typically experience:

- A festive send-off at Utica Union Station: The Beaux-Arts station—built in 1914—provides an atmospheric backdrop for boarding. Expect holiday lights, music, and staff in period-inspired uniforms.

- Chefs, hot chocolate, and cookies: Once on board, dancing “chefs” serve hot chocolate and cookies as the train rolls north through winter darkness. The choreography and music are timed to the story.

- The story unfolds: Car hosts lead a live reading of The Polar Express, with illustrations shown and character interactions sprinkled throughout. Children are encouraged to follow along and join in.

- Golden ticket punching: Conductors theatrically punch each child’s Golden Ticket, a moment that doubles as an irresistible photo opportunity.

- Arrival at “the North Pole”: The train reaches a decorated, light-filled set that stands in for Santa’s village. The experience here varies by year and production design, but typically includes views of the “North Pole” scenes from your window and interactions as the train pauses.

- Santa’s visit and the First Gift of Christmas: Santa and his helpers board the train, greeting each child and presenting the iconic silver sleigh bell—a cherished keepsake that anchors the story’s theme of belief.

- Carols and cozy ride home: On the return trip, expect caroling, character walk-throughs, and plenty of family photos as excitement gives way to a warm, memory-making glow.

Key details and tips for families

- Duration and route: The roundtrip typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. The train departs from Utica and runs north to a designated “North Pole” location before returning to the station. Exact timing and trackage can vary depending on the year’s operating plan.

- Seating classes: The event usually offers multiple seating options, such as Coach and First Class. Upgraded classes may feature roomier seating, table arrangements, holiday keepsakes, and sometimes souvenir mugs. Specific inclusions vary; review the current season’s details before booking.

- Attire: Pajamas are encouraged for children and adults, and you’ll see plenty of cozy robes and slippers. Dress in layers—cars are heated, but platforms can be chilly, and winter weather in Utica can be brisk.

- Accessibility: The Adirondack Railroad strives to accommodate guests with mobility needs. Availability of wheelchair spaces and accessible restrooms can be limited on heritage equipment, so call ahead to discuss specific needs and boarding assistance.

- Tickets and timing: THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride is extremely popular and often sells out, especially on peak December weekends. Book early, arrive at least 45–60 minutes before departure to park, pick up items, and enjoy pre-boarding festivities.

- Ages and policies: Policies regarding lap infants, strollers, car seats, and ticket requirements can vary by production and season. Check the railroad’s current policy to avoid surprises.

- Photos and merchandise: Professional photo add-ons and official Polar Express merchandise are typically available. Bring a fully charged phone or camera, and consider a small, soft bag for bells, tickets, and souvenirs.

Why this experience resonates

Part of the enduring charm of THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride is how well it blends theater and travel. The movement of the train—the gentle sway, the rhythmic click of joints, the soft hum of vintage heaters—is a character in its own right. It enables a suspension of disbelief that’s hard to replicate on a static stage. Children watch the world slide by outside the window while the story unfolds inside, bridging imagination and reality.

For parents and grandparents, the trip becomes a ritual. Many families return year after year, anchoring a seasonal tradition with familiar beats: the first sip of hot chocolate, the conductor’s flourish with the ticket punch, the weight of the sleigh bell in a small palm. It’s a rare experience where the logistics feel smooth and the moments feel cinematic.

Community and economic impact

Beyond the magic, the event delivers tangible benefits. THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride helps fund the Adirondack Railroad’s broader preservation work, supporting volunteerism, equipment restoration, and track improvements that make other excursions possible. During the holiday season, downtown Utica sees increased foot traffic as families dine, shop, and explore before or after the train. Local performers and seasonal staff often find work through the production, and area hotels welcome guests who travel for the event.

What else the Adirondack Railroad offers

While the holiday train is a highlight, the Adirondack Railroad’s calendar spans spring to late fall with excursions suited to many interests:

- Scenic day trips to Thendara and Tupper Lake with layovers for dining and shopping.
- Fall foliage trains that spotlight the Park’s brilliant reds and golds.
- Themed events such as beer-and-wine trains, canoe-and-rail packages, and railbike connections in some seasons.
- Charter opportunities for groups and special occasions.

This diversity sustains the nonprofit’s mission and keeps the equipment and corridor vibrant outside the holiday window.

Planning your trip

- Check the official Adirondack Railroad website for current dates, times, prices, and seating classes for THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride.
- Monitor announcements; extra departures are sometimes added as dates sell out.
- Consider off-peak dates for a more relaxed experience.
- Build in time to enjoy Union Station’s architecture and holiday decorations.
- If traveling from out of town, book accommodations early—Utica’s lodging inventory can tighten on popular weekends.

The bottom line

The Adirondack Railroad’s official THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride is more than an outing; it’s a finely tuned immersion that marries heritage railroading with holiday theater. It works because the railroad understands both halves of that equation—maintaining classic equipment and operations while delivering a polished, family-centered show that honors a beloved story. For the railroad, it’s a cornerstone fundraiser and community celebration. For families, it’s a keepsake memory that begins the moment the conductor calls, “All aboard!” and lingers each time a silver bell rings.