Downtown Galveston’s Newest Attraction: The Polar Express!

Warner Brothers’ Polar Express Train Experience returns to Galveston November 11th! Families will be able to make incredible holiday memories onboard the train ride to the North Pole, inspired by the beloved children’s classic, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg.

A Magical Holiday Journey Filled with Christmas Cheer

Parents and children of all ages are invited to partake in the exciting holiday journey, which sets off from the Galveston Railroad Museum from November 11th through December 23rd. Daily rides will be available on weekdays at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:30 pm. Rides will be offered on Saturdays at 2:30, 4:15, 6:15, and 8:00 pm and on Sunday afternoons at 2:30, 4:15, and 6:15 pm, providing a variety of flexible options for families.

Immediately upon boarding, children will be swept up in the Christmas magic as they are whisked away on an adventure that’s set to the music of the motion picture soundtrack, The Polar Express. Families will participate in a read-aloud of The Polar Express, enjoying delicious hot chocolate and sweet treats and singing along to favorite Christmas carols. Santa and his elves will greet passengers upon their arrival to the North Pole, gifting each child with a silver sleigh bell as a beautiful memento of the experience.

Explore the Best Galveston Attractions for Family-Friendly Fun

While you are in Galveston, enjoy the many family-friendly things to do in downtown Galveston. You’ll quickly discover that there’s no shortage of activities for the whole family to enjoy:

Enjoy holiday shopping in the Strand National Historic Landmark District, home to a diverse collection of retailers, unique boutiques, and top-rated restaurants.

-Ride the trolleys that run throughout the island and explore all of the neighborhoods’ best-hidden gems. Don’t forget to snap a few photos of your family on board—they’d make a perfect addition to your holiday card!

-Learn about the region’s storied history and distinct culture at popular Galveston tourist attractions like the Ocean Star Offshore Oil Rig Museum, and the Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Experience.

-Indulge your holiday sweet tooth at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, where you can find delicious holiday gifts and sample premium chocolates, gourmet caramel apples, and ice cream in their homemade waffle cones.

-Take part in Dickens on the Strand, a treasured holiday tradition inspired by 19th-century Victorian London. The annual street festival takes place on December 2nd – 4th and features multiple stages of live entertainment, special parades, carolers, and various characters from the Dickens era, as well as, vendors offering a unique collection of crafts, jewelry, clothing, and holiday décor. Although Victorian costumes are encouraged, they are not required.

Purchase Your Polar Express Tickets Early to Secure Your Family’s Spot

The arrival of the Galveston Polar Express Experience is one of the most anticipated Galveston holiday events, and tickets are expected to go quickly. If you’re ready to get a head start on making your family’s treasured holiday memories, sales open to the public on August 22nd.

Make this year’s holiday season one filled with magic, memories, and one-of-a-kind family experiences by planning a ride on Galveston’s Polar Express.

Ticket sales open at 9:00 AM Tuesday, August 22, 2022.

Exact dates, times, and fares are available by visiting www.GalvestonRRMuseum.org. Ticket prices range from $30 (Coach) to $100 (Premium), depending on the date and time of the ride.