Oklahoma Polar Express Train Rides (2023): A Complete Guide

Published: April 7, 2023

By: Adam Burns

You can hop aboard officially licensed "The Polar Express" train rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum.  More information about this event may be found further below.

The Polar Express train rides have become an iconic holiday tradition for many families. Inspired by the popular children's book by Chris Van Allsburg and 2004 Warner Brothers movie, the Polar Express trips offer an immersive experience that transports passengers to the North Pole. From the scenic route to the festive decorations and activities, the Polar Express is a magical adventure that is not to be missed.

Other Family Christmas Activities

Beyond holiday-themed train rides, Oklahoma offers plenty of other activities for the entire family to enjoy during the Christmas season. From traditional celebrations to unique experiences, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best.

Visit the Oklahoma City Zoo Lights

During the holiday season, the Oklahoma City Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with the beautiful light displays. The whole family can stroll through the park to see more than a million twinkling lights, festive displays, and seasonal sounds.

Attend a Christmas Parade

Many towns and cities in Oklahoma host a holiday parade during December. Oklahoma City’s downtown is the setting for the annual Downtown in December parade, a must-see family event featuring lighted floats, marching bands, and festive characters.

Visit the Chickasha Festival of Lights

The Chickasha Festival of Lights is an incredible drive-through light display featuring over 3.5 million lights and 100 stunning displays. Families can enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their vehicles while taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of the holiday season.

Explore the Philbrook Museum of Art

During December, Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa transforms into a holiday wonderland with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations. The museum's galleries are open for families to view a beautiful collection of art while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Enjoy Christmas at the Governor's Mansion

The Oklahoma Governor's Mansion in Oklahoma City is a historic landmark that opens its doors to the public during the holidays. Visitors can tour the beautifully decorated mansion, enjoy festive treats, and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

Visit the Tulsa Zoo Lights

The Tulsa Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with over a million twinkling lights and festive displays. Families can stroll through the park to see the light displays, enjoy seasonal treats, and participate in holiday-themed activities.

Attend the Christmas in the Park

The Christmas in the Park is a drive-through light display at Yukon City Park that features over three million twinkling lights, themed displays, and animated scenes. Families can enjoy the beautiful display from the comfort of their vehicles and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

Enjoy the Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink

The Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink is a popular destination for families during the holiday season. The rink is open from November to January and offers skate rentals, lessons, and events. Families can enjoy skating on the rink while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

See the Lights on Enid's Christmas Tree Lane

Enid's Christmas Tree Lane is a beautiful drive-through light display that features over 200 decorated trees, creating a magical tunnel of lights. Families can enjoy the display from the comfort of their vehicles while taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

Visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center

The Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur offers a unique holiday experience that showcases the traditions and culture of the Chickasaw Nation. Families can enjoy storytelling, cultural demonstrations, and holiday-themed activities while taking in the beautiful decorations.

Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

The Bricktown district in Oklahoma City offers horse-drawn carriage rides during the holiday season. Families can enjoy a peaceful ride through the streets while taking in the festive decorations and lights.

Attend the Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival of Lights

The Sand Springs Herbal Affair and Festival of Lights is an annual event that features a holiday market, live music, and a light display featuring over a million twinkling lights. Families can enjoy shopping for unique gifts and crafts while taking in the festive atmosphere.

In conclusion, there is no shortage of family-friendly Christmas activities in Oklahoma. From ice-skating to light displays, parades, and train rides, the state offers something for everyone. These activities are not only fun, but they are also a great way to bring your family together and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, make sure to add some of these activities to your holiday plans this year, and enjoy the festive season with your loved ones.

Guide Information

Oklahoma Railway Museum

(Oklahoma City): The state of Oklahoma offers few train rides for the public.  The Oklahoma Railway Museum is the lone exception, providing the public with trips over about 3 miles of track in Oklahoma City which historically was part of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (nicknamed the "Katy"). 

The organization began as the Central Oklahoma Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) in 1972 to preserve the state's rail history and provide excursions. 

It took more than 25 years but the group finally secured their own 3-acre site in 1999.  In addition, after four more years of work it began hosting passenger trains in 2003. 

That year it enjoyed just 150 passengers; in five years the number had jumped to 16,000 by 2008.  Today, these numbers are even higher and the museum operates several excursions and specials throughout the spring, summer, and fall. 

Their static displays, cars, and locomotives are numerous including several diesels, passenger cars, freight cars, and other types of equipment.  The organization now offers official The Polar Express events.   The train ride lasts about one hour where the kids travel to the "North Pole" and meet Santa.

The Oklahoma Railway Museum offers tickets in "Value," "Standard," and "Premium" departure rates based on demand.  To learn more please visit their website.

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