All aboard… or maybe not this year. Unfortunately, the beloved New Orleans Polar Express Train Ride will not be returning for the 2025 holiday season. Families across Louisiana who have made this magical trip part of their Christmas tradition will surely miss the festive ride to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and Santa’s cheerful visit. While we’re sad to see it pause this year (it was our favorite holiday event), there are still plenty of ways to make holiday memories closer to home — and we’ll be sharing the best local Christmas events, lights, and family fun happening across Louisiana all season long. Stay tuned!
Polar Express Train Ride
Set to the sounds of the iconic motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic Polar Express story on a one-hour trip to the North Pole. Once on board, your golden ticket will be punched by the car hosts, and you’ll be served hot chocolate and delicious Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs.
As the train moves along, guests can read along with The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. During the ride, Santa and his helpers will make an appearance, greeting passengers and giving each guest the first gift of Christmas—a silver sleigh bell. Carols and onboard entertainment will be led by characters, making the ride even more festive!
First Class passengers will also receive a collectible Polar Express ceramic mug with their hot chocolate.
Note: This year’s event will focus on improving the onboard experience, and the outdoor North Pole set will not be featured. However, Santa will still board the train to greet passengers and present the First Gift of Christmas.
Ticket Information
Each coach on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Union Passenger Terminal New Orleans offers the same class of service. In order to offer the best experience for all guests, seating is assigned on board the train and you will select your own seats during the online checkout process as you would on an airline. Please review the Seating Chart carefully before booking. All seats on board the train are assigned and you will select your own seats during checkout.
2024 Coach Class Pricing
Value Departures: $50 Adult, $42 Child │ Standard Departures: $65 Adult, $57 Child │ Premium Departures: $78 Adult, $70 Child
Additional ticketing service fee and local tax will apply.
Where do we park? Where is the station?
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride departs from and returns to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal located at 1001 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113. Guests must check-in at the Polar Express Box Office inside the terminal. Please follow signage to check in prior to your trip.
Guests are responsible for finding their own parking near New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. Information about parking near New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal can be found via Amtrak website HERE.
Get Ready for a Magical Ride Don’t miss this chance to secure seats for this unforgettable holiday experience! Whether you’re a returning fan or experiencing the Polar Express for the first time, it’s a holiday tradition that will create lasting memories for you and your family.
Check out the full pricing calendar and FAQs on the official website at nolathepolarexpressride.com and start planning your festive adventure today.
Stay tuned for more holiday fun and updates from Baton Rouge Family Fun!