THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad runs THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride from its Cumberland, Maryland depot as a one-hour journey to the "North Pole". The operator describes it as inspired by the classic book and film: a live reading of the story, songs from the film, hot chocolate and a cookie served on board, and a visit from Santa.

Every passenger receives a commemorative silver sleigh bell. The railroad sells five classes of service, from Coach Class to Table Class, First Class, a Dome Class with panoramic views of the Allegheny Mountains, and a Paducah Club observation car (listed by the operator as under restoration at the time of reading).

The operator invites passengers to wear their pajamas, and says seating is limited and popular dates sell quickly. The railroad also runs a separate catalogue of scenic, dinner and holiday-season trains from the same Cumberland depot.

A one-hour round trip to the "North Pole" with a live reading of The Polar Express, songs from the film, hot chocolate and a cookie served on board, a visit from Santa and a silver sleigh bell for every passenger. The operator suggests wearing pajamas. The train is climate controlled and has restrooms on board.

Departs from the Cumberland Depot, 13 Canal Street, Cumberland, Maryland. The operator recommends arriving 40 to 45 minutes before departure to allow time for parking, collecting golden tickets, the gift shop and boarding; its Our Depots page has a Cumberland parking map. Wheelchairs can only be accommodated in Standard Coach at the Cumberland Depot, and the operator asks passengers to contact its ticketing office before booking for mobility needs. Trains run in all weather and are cancelled only if a national weather emergency is declared. Tickets are non-refundable; the operator issues an in-house credit instead. A heritage fee is added to every excursion. Children aged two and under ride free on an adult's lap.