North Pole Express — Florida Railroad Museum

The Florida Railroad Museum runs the North Pole Express from its Parrish station as an evening holiday outing: a train ride of about 45 minutes to the "North Pole", roughly two and a half hours there, and the ride back. The operator puts the whole experience at about three and three-quarter hours.

At the North Pole, families gather on a large grassy field around campfires, with unlimited cookies and hot chocolate, holiday activities and entertainment, storytelling and model train displays. Every child has a personal visit with Santa Claus in his private office and receives a gift. Reindeer food and a toy tent are also listed among the inclusions.

The museum sells four ways to travel. Coach Class is open-air. Excursion Class has assigned seats, in cars that either have adjustable windows or are fully enclosed and climate controlled. First Class has assigned seating in enclosed, climate-controlled cars (coach or reclining seats, tables and private booths) and a selection of complimentary snacks and beverages on the ride out. A Private Caboose can be reserved for up to 16 guests. The operator says space is limited and popular departures sell out quickly.

A 45-minute train ride each way, with about 2½ hours at the North Pole in between: unlimited cookies and hot chocolate, campfires, holiday entertainment, storytelling, model train displays, a personal visit with Santa and a gift for every child. The North Pole activities are outdoors on a large grassy field, so dress for the forecast and bring layers. Coach Class is open-air and exposed to the evening temperature.

Departs from the museum's Parrish station, 12210 83rd Street East, Parrish, Florida. The operator advises arriving 45 to 60 minutes before departure; boarding begins about 20 to 30 minutes ahead and the train cannot be held for late guests. Parking is free. Strollers, car seats and large coolers are not permitted aboard, and small bags must fit on your lap. Outside food and drinks are not allowed, except for infant needs, allergies and medically necessary or special dietary requirements. Restrooms are at the Parrish station and at the North Pole, and on board (the onboard restrooms are not wheelchair accessible). Wheelchair spaces are in designated accessible cars and must be booked with the wheelchair ticket option. Reservations can be exchanged with at least 48 hours' notice, and optional ticket refund protection is sold at checkout. Online and phone reservations carry a service fee. Everyone needs a ticket; children under one may ride on an adult's lap with a lap rider ticket.