The Polar Express Train Ride

The Polar Express Train Ride returns to St. Louis Union Station this holiday season, running from November 13 through December 30, 2026. It's based on the children's book and the movie soundtrack, and the whole thing is built around the story of a boy searching for the real meaning of Christmas. The ride brings that story to life: you meet the Conductor at the station, listen to a reading of the book, and sip hot chocolate with a cookie before the train arrives at the North Pole, where Santa boards and visits every good little boy and girl. Families are encouraged to wear their holiday pajamas.

If you're bringing kids who might find the noise and lights a bit much, there are sensory-friendly trips on Monday, November 23 and Tuesday, December 1, at 4:30, 6:00, and 7:15 PM. On those rides, the lights and music are lowered and character interaction is kept quieter. The whole experience takes place at the St. Louis Union Station Train Park, inside Union Station, which is a National Historic Landmark and one of the city's main spots for family entertainment. If you ride in November, you get a free ticket to a Wheel Park attraction; if you go on a weekday in December, you get a free Elfie Express ticket.

Scheduling changes a bit as the season moves. Pre-Thanksgiving rides run at 4:30, 6:00, 7:15, and 8:30 PM, while December rides run at 4:30, 6:00, and 7:15 PM. Ticket options range from Holiday Saver tickets starting at $19.99 to Coach at $35. First Class is $45 per ticket, sold in sets of four, and the Premium Upper Dome is $115 per ticket, also sold in sets of four. There's also a Premium Lower Lounge at $100 per ticket.