North Pole Express — Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad

The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad runs its North Pole Express from its station at 149 Eagle Drive in Romney, West Virginia. The operator describes it as a 75-minute interactive train ride, northbound to the "North Pole" with no layover, with milk and Mrs. Claus' famous cookies, storytelling and Christmas caroling on board, and Santa boarding the train at the North Pole. Every child receives a gift from Santa.

The railroad sells two classes of service. First Class rides in vintage 1940s and 1950s dining cars with table or lounge seating, climate control and windows that do not open. Standard Coach uses 1920s coaches with cushioned bench seats and limited heating; its windows open, which the operator links to the moment Santa boards. The operator suggests dressing in layers and bringing warm blankets for the coaches.

The event goes beyond the ride. At the station the operator lists an Event Barn with activities, letters to Santa, coloring stations, photo spots, a nativity with live animals, and hot cocoa, snacks and s'mores pits that are sold for cash only. The railroad also runs scenic, dining and other holiday trips from the same station, which are separate products.

A 75-minute round trip aimed at all ages: storytelling, Christmas caroling, milk and Mrs. Claus' cookies, and Santa boarding at the North Pole with a gift for every child. The operator asks guests to use the restrooms at the station before boarding, because the onboard restrooms are closed during this event (the trains are winterized and there is a live production in the aisles).

Departs from the Potomac Eagle station, 149 Eagle Drive, Romney, West Virginia. The operator suggests arriving about two hours before departure to enjoy the station festivities, checking in at the ticket window on arrival; boarding starts 30 minutes before departure. The Event Barn closes at 7:00 PM. Restrooms are at the station and in porta-potties; the onboard restrooms are closed during the North Pole Express. Tickets are non-refundable: the operator holds an in-house credit for a future excursion, and a service fee applies to date changes made less than a week before. Seats together are only guaranteed for people booked under a single reservation. Phone: (304) 424-0736.