Experience the magic this holiday season! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Climb aboard one of our powerful locomotives and historic train cars as it departs our Bryson City Depot for the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus himself. Upon arriving at our depot, you’ll be immersed in the story as our chefs serve you hot chocolate and sweet treats while singing and dancing all the way to the Pole! On the return trip to Bryson City, Santa will visit each coach and hand out the first gift of Christmas to each child.
What is The POLAR EXPRESS™ TRAIN RIDE?
First told in the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, this is the story of a child’s Christmas Eve journey. It was adapted to the big screen in 2004. And now it comes alive each year with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride! All ages can enjoy the experience, warmth, and fun of the Christmas season on a special steam train trip to the North Pole! Certain dates and car types will sell quickly so you’ll want to book soon to reserve your preferred seating!
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Oh, There’s More This Winter!
Tuckasegee River Excursions have also returned and depart Bryson City on select dates in November and December. View our winter excursion calendar and book your train adventure HERE.
Don’t miss the Smoky Mountain Christmas Light Spectacular in Bryson City! From November 7 through January 4, the Great Smoky Mountains Event Park comes alive with dazzling, custom-built LED displays of the 12 Days of Christmas. It’s a magical holiday experience the whole family will love! Learn more HERE.
About Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
Trains have connected the communities of Western North Carolina since the 1800s, and helped to increase visitation to once remote areas of the Smoky Mountains. Today they are enduring reminders of our past, and provide a unique setting to take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Learn about train rides through the Smoky Mountains, including routes and annual events.