THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is returning to Connersville, Indiana for the 2025 holiday season. Departing from the Whitewater Valley Railroad, this beloved experience takes families on a magical journey to the North Pole.
Quick Facts
- Location: Grand Central Station, 455 Market St., Connersville, IN 47331
- Ride length: About 1 hour 45 minutes
- Ages and tickets: Ages 2 and up need a ticket. Lap infants under 2 ride free
- Price range: $39 to $55 depending on date
- Tip: Trains sell out quickly. Buy early for best times
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride brings Chris Van Allsburg’s classic story to life. Dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and a cookie, the book is read aloud, and the conductor punches golden tickets. At the North Pole, Santa and his elves board for the return to Connersville, greeting families and presenting the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell. Wear pajamas to be part of the story and make the night feel extra cozy.
2025 Dates and Fares
Ages 2+ need a ticket. Lap infants under 2 ride free. Tickets are non-refundable.
Departure times: Afternoon (2:00 PM & 5:00 PM) or Evening (5:00 PM & 8:00 PM). Check the ticket page for the exact times for your date.
- Early Bird — $39: Nov 14, Nov 16
- Value — $47: Nov 21, Nov 23; Dec 5, Dec 7
- Standard — $55: Nov 15, 22, 28–30; Dec 6, 12–14, 19–20
Buy tickets: Purchase online or call (765) 825-2054.
Where to Board
Grand Central Station: 455 Market Street, Connersville, IN 47331. Use this Google Maps link for directions.
What to Bring
- Printed or mobile tickets and a photo ID
- Warm layers and comfortable shoes
- Small blanket for little kids on very cold nights
- Allergy-safe treat and drink if needed
- Phone or camera for photos with Santa
Plan Your Trip
Connersville is an easy day trip from Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Dayton. Plan to arrive early for parking and boarding, and build in extra time for traffic or winter weather. Many families book an early evening train, then grab a warm drink in town after the ride.
Related Guides
FAQs about The Whitewater Valley Railroad THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Source pages: Â https://whitewatervalleyrr.org/polar_express.html
Q: Where do I pick up the Polar Express book I purchased with my tickets?
Your tickets include a voucher for each book purchased. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before boarding and redeem your voucher at the will-call window inside Grand Central Station. Additional books are available in the gift shop.
Q: Are there restrooms on the train?
There are no restrooms on the train. Restrooms are available inside Grand Central Station and in the heated portable unit outside. Plan a quick stop before boarding, since the ride is about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Q: Are the train cars heated?
Yes, coaches are steam heated. On very cold nights, coats and a small blanket for little ones help keep everyone comfortable.
Q: When should I arrive?
Boarding times are listed in your confirmation email and on your tickets. Trains board promptly. Arrive at least 15 minutes early, and allow extra time for large groups, boarding assistance, or will-call pickup. There are no refunds for missed trains.
Q: Where does the train go?
To the North Pole and back to Connersville, with Santa and elves boarding for the return trip.
Q: How should we dress?
Dress for the weather. Many families wear pajamas like in the book and film. If you wear pajamas, choose proper footwear and bring a jacket or coat.
Q: What is the inclement weather policy?
If state or local government closes highways in Fayette County due to weather, trains are canceled and refunds issued. Otherwise, trains run as scheduled.
Q: What allergens are in the hot chocolate and cookies?
They contain milk, wheat, eggs, and soy. Those with severe allergies should bring their own treat and beverage.
Q: What is seating like?
Seats are not reserved. Upholstered bench seats fit two passengers per bench in groups of four. Please do not bring car seats or carriers for children under two unless you purchased a seat for them. Lap infants under two do not need a ticket.
Q: Is there access for persons with disabilities?
Due to the historic nature of the equipment, trains are not fully accessible. If anyone needs assistance, arrive 30 minutes early and check in with the ticket agent. Crew members will help at boarding and to your seats.
Q: Where should I park?
Parking is at Grand Central Station. Follow railroad staff for efficient parking. There is no charge for parking. Please avoid spaces reserved for neighboring businesses.
Q: How long is the train ride?
The train ride is roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Q: Do you have a gift shop?
Yes. A full range of gifts and keepsakes is available at the event.
Q: Are tickets refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable. You may reschedule to another date within the same calendar year, subject to fees and availability.
Q: May I bring my pet or emotional support animal?
No. Only trained service animals are permitted.
Q: Is smoking allowed on the train or at Grand Central Station?
Smoking and vaping are prohibited on the train, inside Grand Central Station, on the station deck, and in boarding areas.
Q: What is the alcohol policy?
This is a family-friendly event. No alcohol is sold or allowed on board the train or on the event grounds. Intoxicated passengers or those found with alcohol may be removed without a refund.
Ready to ride? Buy tickets online or call (765) 825-2054.
Based on THE POLAR EXPRESS book and characters © & ™ 1985 by Chris Van Allsburg. Used by permission of Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
