The Polar Express on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina, is a magical holiday experience that brings the beloved children’s story to life. This 1¼ hour round-trip passenger excursion takes guests on a journey through the quiet wilderness to the North Pole, where Santa Claus awaits.
Overview of the Polar Express Experience
The Polar Express train ride operates from November 9 to December 31, excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The train departs from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot in Bryson City, North Carolina, and features a variety of special events and activities for guests to enjoy.
Classes of Service
The Polar Express on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers two classes of service:
First Class
- Features: Plush furniture, large picture windows, and climate control.
- Inclusions: Cocoa served in a souvenir ceramic mug, a cookie, a surprise treat, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa.
- Pricing: Starts at $249 for a 4-top table (includes 4 seats at $62.25 each) and $124.50 for a 2-top table (includes 2 seats at $62.25 each).
Premium Crown Class
- Features: Windows that can open for fresh air, ceiling fans, and heat for cooler evenings.
- Inclusions: Cocoa served in a souvenir tumbler, a cookie, a surprise treat, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa.
- Pricing: Starts at $229 for a 4-top table (includes 4 seats at $57.25 each).
Special Events and Activities
The Polar Express experience on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad includes several special events and activities:
- Light Show: A spectacular light show synchronized to a familiar Christmas song at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot.
- Santa’s Visit: Santa boards the train at the North Pole and greets each child, presenting them with a silver sleigh bell.
- Chefs and Dancing: Chefs dance through the cars, serving hot cocoa and treats while singing Christmas carols.
- Town Decorations: Bryson City is decorated with over 200,000 LED lights, enhancing the holiday atmosphere.
Reservations and Information
To book your Polar Express experience on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, you can call 800-872-4681 or visit the www.greatsmokies.com website for more information and booking.
Additional Tips
When planning your Polar Express adventure in Bryson City, consider the following tips:
- Lodging: Bryson City offers various lodging options, including mom ‘n pop motels, country inns, B&Bs, mountain cabins, and small chain hotels.
- Dining: Restaurants in Bryson City may have wait times during the Polar Express season, so reservations are recommended.
The Polar Express on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina, is a truly magical and unforgettable holiday experience. With its special events, activities, and classes of service, it’s a must-visit destination for families and Polar Express enthusiasts alike.