The Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station

About this event

It’s time to make holiday plans. Tickets are now available for The Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station.

More information and tickets for the popular holiday tradition are available at www.stlpolarexpressride.com .

A Midwest holiday tradition — the real trains travel from Union Station to the North Pole again this year to tell the magical story of a boy’s search for the real meaning of Christmas.

The train rides begin at St. Louis Union Station on November 13 and continue through December 30, 2026. Riders are encouraged to wear their holiday pajamas on the train rides.

Early ticket buyers will have the best choice of available dates. Weekday riders in November also will get a free ticket to ride the St. Louis Wheel at Union Station.

Trains will depart St. Louis Union Station at 4:30, 6:00 and 7:15 p.m. every night during the season except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. Trains also run at 8:30 p.m. on selected dates. Group tickets and private events can be booked at https://www.stlpolarexpressride.com/group-tickets

ABOUT THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE

The beloved story of The Polar Express comes to life when the real train departs for a round-trip journey to the North Pole led by a cast of talented characters familiar to everyone who loves the classic movie and book, including the Boy, the Hobo, the Conductor, dancing and singing chefs and, of course, Santa and his elves.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy time in a pre-ride venue filled with Christmas-themed selfie stations and activities for the kids.

Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away for a one-hour trip to meet Santa. The Jolly Old Elf will meet every child on the train and will give them the first gift of Christmas, a silver bell. It’s an immersive, family-oriented experience that will create lasting holiday memories.