Plan Your Polar Express™ Adventure
Climb Aboard for a Holiday Tradition
Planning your Polar Express™ adventure starts here. For many families, this magical train ride is the moment the holiday season truly begins. Immerse yourselves in a theatrical experience filled with costumed actors, holiday carols, and storybook narration.
This guide will help you prepare for a seamless experience on the rails.
Before Your Ride
Grab a bite before heading out to V&T Railway. Carson City has a variety of delicious restaurants that are just a short drive away from the depot, including:
- Bamboo Garden
- Cucino Lupo
- Great Basin Brewery
- La Santaneca
- Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint
We recommend you and your group arrive at the Eastgate Depot 45 minutes early. After parking, head to Will Call to receive your tickets.
Don’t forget to snap a few pictures before taking your place in line!
While on the Train
Sit back and let the performance unfold around you. You’ll be served hot cocoa and a tasty cookie while you listen to the Polar Express book read aloud.
After a few carols comes the moment everyone’s waiting for: Santa boards the train, greeting each child and gifting them a silver sleigh bell.
After Your Ride
Stop by the gift shop on your way out of the depot. You’ll find everything from snowglobes and Christmas ornaments to apparel.
Once you’re back in Carson City, stroll through neighborhoods to see the glowing holiday lights or grab a treat from Scoups Ice Cream & Soups Bar.
Know Before You Go
To make your Polar Express™ journey as smooth as possible, follow these tips:
- Arrive 45 minutes early to park and grab your tickets.
- Trains leave promptly at their scheduled departure.
- Please respect the actors and help everyone around you enjoy the show by not talking during the ride.
- For your safety and enjoyment, please stay seated during the ride.
- Dress for comfort. Pajamas are encouraged, but don’t forget warm layers!
- All seating is assigned in two-person benches; no half-benches will be sold.
- Due to limited seating, we cannot accommodate extra baggage (strollers, large diaper bags, etc.).
Check out a full list of FAQs, accessibility information, and more related to the Polar Express™ ride.
Your Fast Track to Holiday Magic
Tickets for this beloved, family-friendly event go fast! Sign up for the newsletter to get early Polar Express™ ticket announcements and first dibs on seat selection.
