THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Medina Railroad Museum

The Medina Railroad Museum in Medina, New York, runs THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride as a round-trip passenger excursion from the museum. The operator says the train sets out to the "North Pole" to pick up Santa Claus, with chefs serving hot chocolate and sweet treats, singing and dancing along the way.

Guests listen and read along with the story to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack. At the North Pole, Santa boards the train and gives each child a silver sleigh bell, and Christmas carols are sung on the way back to Medina.

The museum sells First Class and Coach Class seats. The operator recommends booking in advance because tickets sell quickly.

A round-trip excursion of about 1¼ hours (the operator's FAQ calls it a one-hour experience): hot cocoa and a treat, the story read along to the film soundtrack, Santa boarding at the North Pole with a silver bell for each child, and carols on the way back. First Class adds table seating and a souvenir mug. Pajamas are welcome; closed-toe shoes are required.

Departs from the Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Avenue, Medina, New York 14103. The operator asks guests to arrive one hour before the excursion to pick up tickets (will call, from one hour before departure). Free parking is at 698 Gwinn Street. Seating is assigned and chosen at online checkout; parties must reserve adjacent seats. The historic cars cannot accommodate wheelchairs. No alcohol is sold or allowed. All trains run unless there is a travel ban or a local winter weather advisory. Call center: 1-800-514-3849.