As soon as Halloween ends, we start thinking about all the fun things we can do this holiday season! Do you wonder if the Polar Express Train Ride in Florida is worth it? It is! The magical experience makes your kids feel like they’re transported from the heat of sunny South Florida onto the Polar Express Train.

In 2019, we had the best time on the Polar Express Train in Fort Lauderdale. The Polar Express 2022 leaves from Miami.

What to expect during the Polar Express Train Ride in Florida?

Upon arrival the Brightline train station, the magical experience begins. A large Christmas tree with presents stands at the entry and a Polar Express themed ticket booth where every passenger is given their golden ticket forms the warm welcoming.

It’s recommended to arrive an hour early for the full experience. The Polar Express even had a crafts station for the kids and postcards to write a letter to Santa. While it can get busy, the Brightline Station has lots of snacks and drinks you can buy to help pass the time (parents there’s even a bar)!

When your train is called, the characters from the movie come alive! “ALL ABOARD,” yells the Conductor (aka Tom Hanks) as you walk out to the boarding area. The little boy, the main character is out front greeting you as well.

The railcars are adorn with pretty holiday garland and decor. Once on board the Conductor is there to punch your golden ticket. The performers spent time with our kids and made them feel like they were really headed to the North Pole.

The Polar Express Train in Florida actually moves! Not very fast as the performers needed to dance and move around. Not once did anyone break character while narrating the story. One of our favorite highlights was the hot chocolate scene that came to life. You get hot cocoa and cookies!

When the train arrived at the North Pole, Santa came out and gave each of the kids (and parents) their very own silver bell. There’s also photo opportunities with good ole Saint Nick.

What to wear to The Polar Express?

It’s a great occasion to wear your pajamas – it’s actually encouraged! Just like the little kid’s did in the movie. Our kids wore their matching Christmas pajamas and my husband and I matched them with black and red flannel tops.

How long is The Polar Express Train ride?

The train ride lasted about an hour but the entire experience once you arrive at the station is 2 hours.

RELATED: Our Christmas Bucket List – Family fun all December long

How much are The Polar Express Train tickets?

Tickets vary by location, seats, and time you choose. The Polar Express tickets in Miami range from $50 – $70 per rider. All seats are great but if you can, I recommend getting a table seat. This allowed our family to sit across from each other.

Looking for a Polar Express Train ride near me?

There’s over 39 Polar Express Train Ride experiences across the United States and Canada. Find the Polar Express near you! Here are some of the most popular places with links to purchase tickets:

• Polar Express Train Ride California – Sacramento, Jamestown, and Perris
• Polar Express Train Ride Colorado – Golden and Durango
• Polar Express Train Ride Florida – Miami
• Polar Express Train Ride New York – Utica, Kingston, Medina, and Riverhead
• Polar Express Train Ride North Carolina – Spencer and Bryson City
• Polar Express Train Ride Ohio – Dennison
• Polar Express Train Ride Texas – Galveston and Palestine
• See the full list of locations here.

In conclusion, The Polar Express Train Ride Florida is a great holiday experience and so worth it! Did you find this helpful? If yes, subscribe below for more places to explore and fun things to do with kids!