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(314) 942-6942 Purchase Tickets

FAQ

The popular family event is back as THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride,  and guests will interact with the Polar Express characters and Santa Claus and his elves. See below for additional questions about the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I book tickets?

 It is recommended that reservations are made as soon as your group knows which date and time you would like to attend. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly for this popular event.

Where is THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station?

201 S. 18th Street St. louis, MO 63103

Where do we go once we arrive at St. Louis Union Station?

The Ticket Office will be located at the entrance to the Depot/Tent area and passengers are required to check in prior to entering. We suggest guests arrive 45 min. prior to their scheduled departure time to enjoy all the activities. The Polar Express Train ride is approx. 45 min. long not including activates before and after the ride.

What about parking?

Parking will be located in the main St. Louis Union Station lot located right off 18th Street. Guests will come through the main entrance where they will receive a white parking ticket. Guest will follow signage and flaggers to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride event parking area inside the secured parking lot.

Event parking will be $5.00 per car. Parking vouchers will be available inside the ticket depot and merchandise tent. Upon departure guests are instructed to insert their entry ticket first, the parking voucher second to receive their discount, and then pay the $5 fee with a credit or debit card.  No cash is accepted for parking at the exit.  

Are children under 2 free?

Children 2 & under are free on a lap and do not require a ticket! We do ask that strollers are left in the secure/designated stroller area at the entrance to the event.

Where is the North Pole and how long is the trip?

The North Pole is located just North of the St. Louis Arch Grounds. Guests will ride the Polar Express Train Ride to the North Pole and back to St. Louis Union Station!

What time should we arrive?

We strongly suggest guests arrive 45 min. prior to their scheduled train departure time. This will ensure enough time to get check-in, participate in a family photo and enjoy the fun Depot Tent activities before starting the boarding of the train. Published departure times are not flexible, therefore we encourage guests to arrive early!

Is there a suggested dress code?

We encourage families to dress in their warmest pajamas (The Polar Express themed attire) but this is not required.

Are Tickets Refundable?

The health and safety of our guests is a priority and we understand that plans might need to change due to an illness.  New this year, tickets will be fully refundable 7 days prior to your scheduled departure on the Polar Express.  In the event of a refund or exchange of your tickets to a new date, please reach out to us at info@stlpolarexpressride.com. 

Tickets will not be refunded for no shows on the date of your train departure.

Can I change my reservation to a different date or time?

If reservations are available on another date/train, our reservations agents will do their best to accommodate your request. However, no guarantees can be made that your reservation can be changed.

How can I contact a reservations agent about my train ticket?

Reservations agents can be reached at (314) 942-6942 during the following hours or at info@stlpolarexpressride.com.

Will the event take place if there is snow or other inclement weather?

Yes, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride  is a rain or shine event. The event may also be cancelled or postponed if the State Highway Patrol closes major roads and freeways due to snow. Full refunds will be offered in these scenarios. Safety is of utmost importance to us and we want to ensure that we prevent any situation that is dangerous for our guests and staff.

Do you have a gift shop?

A full range of exclusive THE POLAR EXPRESS™ gifts and keepsakes will be available for purchase at the event.

Is THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride handicap accessible?

The Polar Express Train Ride does offer ADA seating on-board specific train cars. Please call us directly at (314) 942-6942 for more information and bookings. Due to the historic nature of the rail cars, not all cars are fully ADA accessible. We will however do everything in our power to find accommodations for ADA guests. 

Are there restrooms on board the train?

Yes, a limited number of restrooms will be available onboard the trains. There are also ample restrooms available on property in close proximity to the event footprint.

201 S. 18th Street St. Louis, MO 63103

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