Event · Community

The Polar Express Train Ride — Galveston Railroad Museum

When

Through Dec 23Select departures November 13 – December 23, 2026; sensory-friendly rides Tue Dec 15 at 5:30 and 7:15 p.m.

Where

Galveston Railroad Museum — 1932 Union Depot2602 Santa Fe Place, Galveston, TX 77550Open in Google Maps ↗

Ages

Families; all children need a lap or full ticket

Cost

Ticketed (prices on ticket site); special event parking feeDedicated sensory-friendly railcar on Dec 15 departures.

Organizer

Galveston Railroad Museum

The Galveston Railroad Museum runs THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride from November 13 through December 23, 2026, boarding at the historic 1932 Union Depot. The roughly one-hour round trip to the 'North Pole' follows Chris Van Allsburg's book: the story is read aloud, chefs serve hot chocolate and a cookie, and on the return trip Santa walks through each heated coach to give every child a silver bell, the first gift of Christmas, while everyone sings carols. Pajamas are encouraged, and Santa will sign your own copy of the book. Plan about two hours in total, arriving early for pre-boarding activities, letters to Santa and a performance in the depot; final boarding is 10 minutes before departure. Every child needs a ticket, either a lap ticket or a seat. Sensory-friendly rides run Tuesday, December 15 at 5:30 and 7:15 p.m. Tickets are non-refundable, sell out quickly and events run regardless of weather; event parking costs extra.