THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride — Railtown 1897

The California State Railroad Museum Foundation runs THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown, in California's Gold Country. The operator describes an hour-long train ride to the North Pole: once the train reaches the North Pole, Santa comes aboard to give each passenger a silver sleighbell, the first gift of Christmas.

On board, passengers are served hot chocolate and a treat by onboard chefs. As the train passes the North Pole, riders catch a glimpse of Santa and his elves while it readies for the return trip, and everyone joins in carols as the train pulls into Jamestown Station. After the ride, guests walk along a lighted walkway to the Historic Roundhouse, where Santa and his elves are waiting.

Each ticket includes the ride, admission to Railtown 1897 where guests pick up a Golden Ticket and shop, and admission to the Roundhouse. Guests board from a designated tent area, and the operator notes that the event goes ahead regardless of weather, so everyone should dress for winter wind or rain.

Railtown 1897 is a state historic park operated with the non-profit California State Railroad Museum Foundation as an official cooperating organization; this page covers only the holiday event.

An hour-long ride to the North Pole with hot chocolate and a treat from onboard chefs, a glimpse of Santa and his elves, a silver sleighbell for each passenger, and carols on the way back into Jamestown Station. After the ride a lighted walkway leads to the Historic Roundhouse, where Santa and his elves are waiting. Pajamas and a copy of the book for the conductor to sign are welcome, and the operator says the event runs regardless of weather.

The park is at 10501 Reservoir Rd., Jamestown, California. The operator suggests arriving at least one hour before departure to allow for parking, which is in two designated areas with parking attendants; departure times are exact and missed trains cannot be taken later. There are no restrooms aboard the train, but permanent restrooms with changing tables are on the depot deck and portable toilets are in the park. Food is not available at the event site other than the hot chocolate and treat on board, and outside food and drink are not allowed on the train. A wheelchair lift serves the Blitzen car: choose "Purchase accessible seats" at checkout and the ticketing team will complete the purchase; preboarding is also offered. Stroller parking is at the ticket office. Pets are not allowed except ADA service dogs. Tickets are digital and emailed a week before departure; there are no refunds or exchanges, and resale is prohibited.