We are excited to invite passengers to ride in comfort and privacy on our vintage railcar during their trip to the North Pole on THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Once onboard, hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers listen to the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers greet passengers at the North Pole and then board the train, where each child is given the first gift of Christmas – a silver sleigh bell. Chefs aboard each car lead passengers in singing Christmas carols on the ride back to the depot. General Reserved Seating: Enjoy the enthusiasm and excitement of the 1920s coaches with table seating. Your friends and family will be entertained by cocoa dancers and many of the characters you find in the storybook. Everyone is a kid on THE POLAR EXPRESS™! The golden ticket is yours to keep and remember this popular holiday tradition. Premier First Class Seating: This historic 1920s business car offers four (4) unique settings for groups and families, each area is “distanced” from the other and has its own special character. Tickets may be purchased as a unit, ensuring that your party is seated together in a comfortable and safe situation for your memorable ride to pick up Santa at the North Pole. Here is what you can expect with Premier Seating: Every passenger in the Premier Car, referred to as the #99 car of Seattle, Portland & Spokane Railway (SP&S) will find a collector’s cocoa mug and gift bag as they take their seats. Enjoy a reading of The Polar Express story and the magic that’s served with cocoa and cookies. Be prepared for imaginative delight when Caribou cross the tracks just before the train arrives at The North Pole. Upon arrival, the train is met by Santa and his elves and once they board, the train departs for home. During the return trip, Santa will greet and visit with each group and bestow the First Gift of Christmas to each passenger. Every area has windows to see the North Pole and watch while Santa boards the train, appointed with 1950’s-style furniture and details. We accommodate groups up to 4, 6, or 8. We want everyone to be comfortable and have a wonderful experience. To manage your expectations, we want to let you know that, by 1950s standards, there is limited heating, and an RV-style restroom is provided in the general seating coach connected to the 99 car. Aisles are narrow, so wheelchair seating is not available. Blankets, fuzzy jammies, and cozy scarves are encouraged. Our Depot Gift Shop offers a variety of Polar Express blankets, socks, and scarves, along with ornaments, toys, and gift items that are not available through any other source, except those of us who host THE POLAR EXPRESS™. Please arrive ½ hour prior to departure.