All aboard! If you believe in the magic of Christmas, throw on your best holiday pajamas and round up your family and friends to embark on a magical polar-express unlike any other. These rides are a memorable way for kids to visit with Santa and the perfect opportunity to create winter-holiday-family-fun memories. Many of these rides include story time with the kids, meals or themed snacks, holiday crafts, and music.
These events tend to fill up very quickly. Check the list below ASAP if you’re hoping to snag a ticket before the train leaves the station! This year’s Chicago Union Station Polar Express rides are not happening and last year was cancelled due to construction above the station, so you definitely should check out the options below because many sell out quickly.
This guide is sponsored by Pixels by Emily, an amazingly memorable holiday experience for your kids.
Magical Santa Experience with Pixels by Emily
Magical Santa Experience
Pixels by Emily
704 E Franklin Street
Mahomet, IL 61853
(217) 730-3050
October 18, 24, 25
November 7, 8, 14, 15, 28, 29
December 5, 6, 19
One day, they’ll stop believing. Until then, make the magic real.
Give your child a Christmas experience that feels as magical as they imagine it to be. The Magical Santa Experience is an unforgettable 60-minute private experience designed to capture the wonder and excitement of Christmas through your child’s eyes.
Step inside Santa’s Magical Workshop, where twinkling lights, toys, treats, Christmas music, and authentic details bring the North Pole to life. Your child will spend meaningful one-on-one time with Santa, explore his workshop, gather around the cozy fireside, and discover special traditions including Santa’s Reindeer Calling Sleigh Bells and the story behind them.
And while they’re experiencing the magic, we’ll capture timeless, Norman Rockwell-inspired portraits that preserve more than a beautiful photograph, they preserve this season of childhood.
Cherish this Christmas memory for years to come, because they’re only this little once, and one day, Christmas will feel different. Until then, make the magic real. Secure your spot for the Magical Santa Experience and give them a Christmas they’ll never forget.
Polar Express and Holiday Train Rides
Holiday Trolley Rides
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
FAQ and Tips for the Chicago Polar Express
We keep these tips here just in case Chicago Polar Express at Union Station returns next year. Fingers crossed!
Where is the best place to sit?
Each of the cars of the train for the Chicago Polar Express have different themes to match parts of the book “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg, such as Silver Bells and Glacier Gulch. The car you book doesn’t matter because they are all decorated to match the theme (unless you have a favorite part!). However, we recommend choosing seats in the front of whichever car you choose so you are closest to the action.
How far in advance do you recommend arriving?
The train boards 25 minutes before the time of your ticket. You will need about 15 minutes for all of the photo ops they have at Union Station and about 15 minutes between Will Call and a trip to the restrooms. Nicole’s family arrived at the station at 11:10am for a 12:10 departure time and felt it worked out perfectly.
How long is the train ride?
The Union Station Polar Express train ride is a little over an hour.
Do you think my 4 and 1 year old will enjoy it?
Absolutely! Nicole’s one year old was dancing and clapping to all of the songs. Her five year old was entranced and was able to participate. He danced with the conductor and helped to give the first gift of Christmas
What is the best age to enjoy the Chicago Polar Express?
We would probably say 4-7 years old is the best age for maximum enjoyment of the Union Station Polar Express, or any of the polar express rides below. Although members of our team have brought older and younger siblings, who have also had a great time.
Is the Chicago Polar Express too loud for a newborn?
The music and songs are amplified throughout the train and microphones are used, but you never feel blown away by the sound. You are able to hear each other talk to one another. There were a lot of babies on board and in the past they also offered a sensory-friendly ride.
Check out our Kidlist Holiday Guide for more family fun during the holidays!
2 Comments. Leave new
thank you for putting these activities all in one place!
You’re welcome!