This event is over for the 2020 holiday season.  Please check back later for updated information and be sure to sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest news.  

How The 2020 Polar Express™ Train Ride Will Differ From Years Past Due To Covid-19

Because we care about your safety, this year, The Polar Express™Train Ride will look different in the following ways:

• The train ride itself will be shorter and will be about 35 minutes in duration but the overall event duration will be longer.
• The entire event will last a little over an hour.
• The North Pole will be located on the back lot of the depot.
• Santa will be seated at a distance from guests but will be available for socially distanced photos.
• Hot Chocolate and cookies will be served at the end of the event but not on the train.
• The first gift of the season (Christmas Bell) will be distributed at the end of the event.
• The event dances will be performed outside on the platform or on a stage.
• A conductor will lead the event in each car.
• Some of the windows in each heated coach will be open to promote the circulation of air flow.

Click here for video of 2020 event changes.

Experience the Magic This Holiday Season!

Yes, the bell still rings!  THE POLAR EXPRESS™  Train Ride is back for 2020! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story aboard a vintage steam train as it departs our station in Durango and sets off for a round-trip excursion to the North Pole—where your entire family will see Santa Claus in his workshop,  meet two of his reindeer,  interact with characters from the story and many of his elves. Meandering through a winter wonderland, the experience is a little over an hour in duration and offers fun for the entire family. THE POLAR EXPRESS™  Train Ride will be operating at reduced capacity this year for enhanced safety so be sure to reserve your seating for your desired dates before they’re gone!

What is the THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride?

First told in the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, the story of a child's Christmas Eve journey, adapted to the big screen in 2003, now comes alive every year with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride! All ages can enjoy the experience, warmth and fun of the Christmas season on a special steam train trip to the North Pole! Certain dates and car types will sell quickly so you'll want to book soon!

Next Stop: The North Pole

This year’s POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride will be unlike any other you’ve experienced in the history of the event, where we’ve recreated the ride from start-to-finish with enhanced cleanliness and safety protocols in mind. The story begins 15 minutes prior to boarding with a theatrical performance taking place near the depot station. After boarding, the socially-spaced excursion begins with a 35 minute journey through a winter wonderland bound for the North Pole. Upon arriving at the North Pole—set at our rail yard and museum—guests will be guided down a decorated route where they’ll see two of Santa’s REAL reindeer, many elves, and eventually cheery old Saint Nick himself, tinkering away in his workshop. This will be the setting for guests to take socially-distanced photos with Santa—don’t forget to bring your camera! Upon leaving Santa's workshop, guests will be served delicious hot chocolate, a cookie, and be gifted their first present of the Christmas season.

Your Safety is Our Priority

The health and safety of our guests has always been paramount for our team at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. We will be taking every precaution during the THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride to properly sanitize and clean both during and between this magical journey. Similar to our regular seasonal excursions, all trains will be socially distanced with reduced capacity, and require all employees wear proper PPE during the ride. We ask that each guest be prepared to wear a mask or facial covering, socially distance, and follow all safety signage and direction while on Durango Train property. For more information about our enhanced cleaning protocols and regulations, please visit our Covid-19 page here.

Book Now!