8 Top Holiday and Polar Express Trains in New York City and Nearby
A magical train or trolley ride inspired by the holidays and the tale of the “Polar Express” is a great way for families to experience the holiday season this year.
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Polar Express And Christmas Train Rides In New Jersey
Polar Express Whippany
Where: 1 Railroad Plaza Whippany, NJ
When: Nov. 4-Dec. 30; various times.
Price: Tickets start at $50; $43, children ages 2-11
973-419-6255
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Get whisked away to a magical land on a one-hour train ride to the North Pole. The fun begins as soon as you board. Car hosts work their way through the cars to punch your golden ticket before serving delicious hot chocolate and shortbread cookies. Throughout the trip, there’s a reading of the classic story, caroling and other festive onboard entertainment. Passengers take home a keepsake sleigh bell reminiscent of the story. Value, standard and premium packages are available.
The Santa Train
Where: Route 23 Transit Center, Wayne, NJ
When: Saturday, Dec. 10 (times vary)
Price: $31; $26 children ages 11 and younger
973-656-0707
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The Tri-State Railway Historical Society, Inc., returns in 2022 with its annual Ride with Santa in Wayne, NJ. Set in a modern, climate-controlled train, the excursion is an hour long holiday-themed ride where passengers are treated to on-board entertainment including caroling, music, a cast of costumed characters and more holiday fun.
The Polar Express In Phillipsburg
Where: 99 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg, NJ
When: Check the schedule online.
Price: $42; $32 children ages 2-12
877-872-4674
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Board the Polar Express at the Delaware River Railroad Excursions, operated by the New York Susquehanna and Western Technical and Historical Society. The experience is set to the music of the motion picture version of The Polar Express. Passengers will be treated to hot chocolate, cookies, live entertainment and more. Santa boards the train and visits with children along with his elves. Each child receives a bell from Santa.
Santa Express
Where: 80 Stangl Rd., Flemington
When: Nov. 20-Dec. 4, various times
Price: $31.99; $29.99 ages 3-11
908-782-6622
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The Santa Express features lots of holiday fun. New this year, passengers can take a photo with a 6-foot-tall wreath at North Pole Station. Passengers will meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on board the train. Kids receive a sleigh bell gift to take home. Various ticket packages are available.
Strasburg Railroad Christmas Train Rides
Where: 301 Gap Rd., Ronks, PA
When: Various dates available. Check the schedule online.
Price: Varies.
866-725-9666
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Choose from four holiday rides: Santa’s Paradise Express, Night Before Christmas Train, “Santa Claus Limited” or the Christmas Tree Train.
