The first thing you need to know is that Pajamas are encouraged for all ages! It really lets you get into the spirit of the event. We also loved that it was on a real steam engine train! Texas State Railroad really tries to recreate the famous story and movie.... right down to the tickets! Last year they had cute paper tickets, but this year each child got one of these authentic looking tickets and the train conductor actually punched them!
There are three levels of tickets: Standard, Lone Star, and Diamond Class. We sat in the Lone Star section and I think it was well worth it. Once boarding we were shown to our assigned tables where yummy cookies were waiting for us. Very shortly after boarding we were off to the North Pole with the wait staff (chefs) singing up and down the aisle. They sang the "Hot Chocolate" song and we each received our very own mug of hot chocolate to drink while the Polar Express story was read (if you do not get Diamond Class seats, I highly recommend bringing your own book.... plus once you reach the North Pole, Santa will board the train and sign the book!
The total ride time is about 1 hour... and I must say the Texas State Railroad has everything timed perfectly. As soon as the story is done, you arrive at the North Pole and it is such a magical moment - one of those moments that is almost priceless to watch your children experience. Santa and several of his elves are outside waving with Christmas music is playing. It truly captures the magic of the season! As mentioned above, Santa does board the train and visits with each child giving them the symbolic bell.... my kids are still ringing theirs! The ride back to the station is filled with Christmas caroling and dancing in the aisles.
All in all, I highly recommend taking the trip to Palestine for The Polar Express! For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.texasstaterr.com/polar-express/.
I received complimentary ride tickets in exchange for this review. All thoughts are my own.
