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New Jersey Polar Express Train Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: March 14, 2025

By: Adam Burns

As the holiday season approaches, families across New Jersey look forward to beloved traditions, one of which is the enchanting journey of The Polar Express experience. Inspired by the classic children's book and film, these magical train excursions bring to life the story of a young boy's extraordinary journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. This guide will help you navigate these train rides available in New Jersey, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

Overview

The Polar Express train rides are festive excursions that recreate the enchanting journey to the North Pole. Passengers, often in their pajamas as depicted in the story, board the train for a ride filled with holiday cheer, hot chocolate, and visits from characters like Santa Claus and his elves. During the ride, children and their families listen to the reading of "The Polar Express" book while enjoying treats and activities designed to make the experience magical.

Key Features of the Experience

1. The Train Ride: The centerpiece of the Polar Express experience is the train ride itself, often featuring vintage train cars adorned with festive decorations and lights.

2. The Story: As the train makes its journey, passengers listen to the story of "The Polar Express" being read aloud, either over a PA system or by costumed actors.

3. Hot Chocolate and Cookies: No Polar Express experience is complete without delectable hot chocolate and cookies delivered by dancing chefs, mirroring one of the most beloved scenes from the film.

4. Entertainment on Board: Elves and other characters from the story often stroll through the train, engaging with passengers, singing carols, and spreading holiday cheer.

5. Visit from Santa Claus: The highlight of the journey is a visit from Santa, who greets each child and gifts them a silver bell, reminiscent of the one in the story.

Delaware River Railroad Excursions/New York Susquehanna & Western Technical & Historical Society

The New York, Susquehanna & Western Technical & Historical Society was launched in 1988 to preserve the memory of the railroad by the same name. 

The company, which remains in operation, has an interesting history that can be traced back to 1881.  In an effort to help fund the group and continue its preservation efforts the NYS&WT&HS sponsors public excursions over freight line Black River & Western. 

These events have proven quite popular and very successful with trips departing from Phillipsburg, New Jersey; most the time the trips are led by an authentic steam locomotive, a former China Railways 2-8-2,#142, lettered for the "New York, Susquehanna & Western."   

They host many special events throughout the year including wine tasting trains, 'A Day Out With Thomas,' the Corn Maze Train, fall foliage specials, and the official The Polar Express from late November through most of December. 

Morristown & Erie Railway

A private and historic freight railroad the Morristown & Erie Railroad was formed on August 28, 1903 through the merger of two smaller systems, the Whippany River Railroad and Whippany & Passaic River Railroad. 

This formed a 10.5 mile, east-west corridor linking Morristown (and a connection with the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western) with Essex Fells (where interchange was established with the Erie Railroad). 

With two outlets to move freight and several online customers, the M&E flourished.  Small short lines tended to struggle, however, as the 20th century progressed due to increasing competition from other transportation modes and larger railroads. 

When the Lackawanna and Erie merged in 1960 to form Erie-Lackawanna, the M&E could no longer enjoy the competitive freight rates offered by pitting one carrier against the other. 

Coupled with a declining customer base it fell into bankruptcy in 1978.  Surprisingly, the M&E's story did not end there; a group of investors acquired the property and formed the Morristown & Erie Railway in 1982.  The little short line has prospered since that time and now offers public excursions.

The Polar Express offers families an opportunity to relive the magic of the beloved Christmas tale. With limited options but unforgettable experiences, these train rides deliver on the promise of holiday enchantment.

Whether you're a first-time passenger or a seasoned holiday traveler, let the imagination of young and old alike take the reins on this whimsical journey. Gather your loved ones, put on those cozy pajamas, and step aboard for a holiday memory that will last a lifetime.

By understanding the offerings, securing your tickets early, and embracing the festive spirit, you and your family are sure to have an unforgettable journey on The Polar Express this holiday season. Happy travels, and believe in the magic!