Polar Express Nov. 14th- Dec. 21st 2025

All Aboard The Polar Express!

Live the magic of the classic Polar Express™ Train Ride story with the Adirondack Railroad. Depart from Utica’s Union Station and travel north while being served hot chocolate and cookies.

When you arrive at the North Pole, Santa will board the train visiting with each family, and giving the first gift of Christmas, the Silver Bell, just like in the book or movie!

Bring your Pajamas!: Children (and parents) are encouraged to come in pajamas. Don’t forget your camera- you’ll want to capture the memories of your time with Santa! Join the many families who come back to see us every year!

In order to ensure that you are able to travel on your desired dates, please make reservations early as this event sells out every year.

Customers who purchase tickets online from 4/1 – 4/30 can pick their own seats!

Seating Note: We seat all classes in groups of 4. Customers that split their party unevenly will be reseated.

NEW CHANGES:

• Opening scene begins at 1:30, 4:30 & 7:00 inside the lobby of Union station. (1:30 shows are select weekends in December Only)
• At the conclusion of the opening scene, passenger’s will then board the train.
• The train will depart Union Station at 2:00, 5:00 & 7:30. (2:00 boarding is on select weekends in December Only)
• This event will last approximately 2 hour(s).

Classes and Amenities

Please note: We no longer accept request to sit with another party. To guarantee your group sits together please book all tickets under 1 reservation.. 

Gift Shop Hours

November 14th – 30th:

Friday – Sunday 3pm -7pm

December 1st-21st:

Thursday & Friday 3pm – 7pm & Saturday

Sunday 12pm – 7pm

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online or via phone with a customer service representative by calling 1-800-819-2291.

How will I get my tickets?
All tickets must be picked up in person, no earlier than 1 hour prior to departure. The reservation holder must present with a valid ID to pick up tickets.

Everyone will pick up their ticket envelope containing their golden tickets. KEEP THE TICKET ENVELOPE OUT AND READY as it is needed when you enter the platform. Please note, the email you received when you purchased the tickets is not your ticket to the train, you must proceed to the ticket window as you enter the station.

Once I am on board the train can I change my seat or move cars?
No. All seating is assigned. Each coach has a car attendant that will assist seating passengers. Please be courteous as we have hundreds of people to board the train in a very short amount of time. The car attendant will seat you based on the assigned seating listed on your boarding envelope.

Is the train handicapped accessible?
Yes.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the maximum door opening width is 26 inches wide.

How long is the trip?
About an hour and a half, round trip.

Are there bathrooms on the train?
Yes, however they are emergency only.

Do people actually wear their pajamas?
Yes! Most children and many adults wear their pajamas!

If I am traveling in a group but not on the same reservation, can we sit together?
No, we do not accept seating requests.

I can’t make the date I chose, can I reschedule?

Yes,  however this must be done 48 hours ahead of your departure time, and is subject to availability and a service charge. No exceptions.

Are there group discounts for the Polar Express Train Ride?
No, there are no discounts for the Polar Express. When ordering tickets for several families, it is best if one person takes the lead and orders for the entire group, that way you are guaranteed to have tickets for the same trip. If you order early and another party tries later and the trip is sold out, we can’t switch you or them into another trip. Also, once you get to the station and get your tickets, make sure the group leader informs one of the station attendants that your group is here and the number of people in your group so that we can help you board and sit together.

What are the ticket prices?
All children under two are subject to hot chocolate and cookies, however in first class there will be a mug handed out to only ages two and up.

• First Class Adult (Ages 13+): $68.00
• First Class Child (Ages 2-12): $58.00
• Coach Class Adult (Ages 13+): $47.00
• Coach Class Child (Ages 2-12): $39.00

Children under

Where is the event held?
The Polar Express is held at Utica’s Union Station at 321 Main Street, Utica NY 13501.

When do tickets go on sale?
The Polar Express tickets go on sale at 12:01am April 1st.

When should I arrive to the station?
Please arrive approximately one hour ahead of your scheduled departure time.

Where do I park my car?
There are multiple lots around Utica’s Union Station. However, with such a large number of passengers, parking may be limited. Please make sure you are not in a no parking zone.

Do we really get hot chocolate and cookies on the train?
Yes!

What can I bring on the train?
All you will need to board the train is your tickets, coats, and any other materials needed for small children.  All bags are subject to a bag check prior to boarding the train.

Can I bring my service dog?
ADA Service dogs are always welcome on board the train, in our gift shop and in the station/train. Emotional support animals are not service animals per the ADA, and are they are not permitted on the trains. Additional information can be found at https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/#definition-of-a-service-animal

Can I bring a pet with me?
No, live animals are allowed on any Adirondack Railroad trains unless they are a ADA certified service animal with their owner or trainer. We strongly encourage our guests to find suitable daytime facilities for your pets and not leave them in a parked car.

Will l receive a refund if I can’t make the trip?

What are the amenities of First Class seating?
First Class includes, table seating, souvenir mug (1 per ticket holder). Any child under two will be sitting on a lap, unless an individual ticket has been purchased for them