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Whitewater Valley Railroad

Authentic. Historic. Scenic.

Golden Ticket

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is Chris Van Allsburg's classic picture book brought to life! Passengers are served hot chocolate and a cookie by chefs wearing white coats and toques, listen to a reading of the book, and have their golden ticket punched by the conductor. At the North Pole, Santa and his elves will board the train for the return trip to Connersville. During his brief visit with each family, Santa will present everyone with the first gift of Christmas - a silver bell from his sleigh. Become part of the story and wear your pajamas! Tickets are $49.99 (excluding fees) for ages two and up.

Purchase tickets online HERE or by phone at (765) 825-2054.

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Schedule

FAQs

Q: Where do I pick up the Polar Express book I purchased with my tickets?
The ticket agent will have your book ready when you pick up your tickets inside Grand Central Station.

Q: Are there restrooms on the train?
There are no restrooms on the train. Restrooms are available inside Grand Central Station and in the heated, portable unit outside the station. The train ride is almost 2 hours long, so please ensure everyone uses the restroom before boarding the train.

Q: Are the train cars heated?
Yes, all our coaches are steam-heated, and we do our best to keep them comfortable. However, if the weather is extremely cold, we recommend bringing coats and a blanket for the little ones.

Q: When should I arrive for my train?
The boarding time for your train is in your confirmation email. Trains board promptly at their scheduled boarding times. Please arrive no less than 15 minutes before boarding time. Allow extra time if you are with a large group or need boarding assistance. Please monitor the weather and traffic conditions along your route and allow sufficient travel time to Connersville. There are no refunds for missed trains!

Q: Where does the train go?
Why to the North Pole of course!

Q: How should we dress?
Dress for the weather. Many families wear pajamas, just like passengers in the book and film. If wearing pajamas, wear proper footwear and a jacket or coat.

Q: What is the severe weather policy?
Trains run as scheduled rain or shine unless the Indiana Department of Homeland Security issues a “Warning” travel advisory for Fayette County. In that case, trains will be canceled and full refunds issued.

Q: What allergens are in the hot chocolate and cookies served on the train?
The hot chocolate and cookies served on the train contain the following common allergens: milk, wheat, eggs, and soy. We cannot guarantee they have not come in contact with other allergens. Those with food allergies are welcome to bring their own beverage and treat for the train ride.

Q: What is seating like?
Seats are not reserved. Passengers are seated two per upholstered bench seat in groups of four. Please do not bring car seats or carriers for children under two unless you have purchased a ticket for them. Children under two riding in a lap do not need a ticket.

Q: Is there access for persons with disabilities?
Due to their historic nature, our trains are not fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. If anyone in your group requires assistance boarding the train, please arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled boarding time and register your group with the ticket agent inside Grand Central Station. Crew members will be available to assist you at the boarding area and help you to your seats.

Q: Where should I park?
Parking is at Grand Central Station. There will be sufficient parking for everyone; please follow the directions of the railroad staff when parking so that we can comfortably accommodate everyone. There is no charge for parking. We ask that you respect the other businesses around Grand Central Station and not park in any spaces reserved for their patrons.

Q: Where is Grand Central Station located?
Grand Central Station's address is 455 Market Street, Connersville, IN 47331. You can also find directions using this Google Maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/y7PyoFCq9kJkUohb6.

Q: How long is the train ride?
The train ride is roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes in length.

Q: Do you have a gift shop?
Yes, a full range of gifts and keepsakes will be available at the event.

Q: Are tickets refundable?
No. You may reschedule your reservation to another date within the same calendar year, subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.

Q: May I bring my pet or emotional support animal?
No. Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted. Only trained service animals are allowed.

Q: Is smoking allowed on the train or at Grand Central Station?
Smoking of any type is prohibited on the train, inside Grand Central Station, on the deck around the station, and in the boarding areas. This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, and vaping of any kind.

Q: What is the alcohol policy?
Alcohol and drugs are prohibited on railroad property. Passengers who are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs will be removed from the event or turned over to law enforcement.

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

Based on THE POLAR EXPRESS book and characters © & ™ 1985 by Chris Van Allsburg. Used by permission of Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.