GALVESTON, Texas — One of the newest holiday traditions in Galveston is The Polar Express train ride at the Railroad Museum.
Tickets went on sale on Aug. 22 for the family-friendly event that rolls into the island before Thanksgiving. The first passengers will board on Nov. 11 for the round-trip journey to the "North Pole." The train rides will continue through Dec. 23.
While listening to music from the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the movie as they're whisked away for a one-hour trip to meet Santa.
During the journey, dancing chefs will serve cookies and hot chocolate, and passengers can read along with the classic children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. Families are encouraged to wear pajamas for the ride just like the children in the book.
Characters in each car will also entertain the riders along the way. Santa and his dancing elves board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell. When the train returns to the depot, passengers can chat with Santa and take pictures.
Ticket prices range from $30 for coach to $100 for premium, depending on the date and time of the ride. Everyone will enjoy the same features during their trips, regardless of the price. Lap infants under 2 ride free. You will be asked during the purchase process to add the free lap infant tickets.
