Everything You Need to Know Before Attending The Polar Express at St. Louis Union Station
If you’re looking for a magical way to kick off the holiday season in St. Louis, The Polar Express Train Ride at Union Station is the ultimate Christmas experience for kids (and parents!) who love all things Santa, cocoa, and holiday cheer.
We’ve gone twice with our kids and after experiencing it firsthand, here’s everything you need to know before you go! The Polar Express kicks off November 14 and goes through December 30. I’ve got all the tips and how to save a bit of money!
🎟️ Parking & Arrival Tips
Parking is located in the main St. Louis Union Station lot, right off 18th Street. Guests will prepay $5 for parking upon entry, then follow signage and flaggers to The Polar Express Train Ride event area inside the secured lot.
Plan to arrive about 30-45 minutes before your ticket time. Before you board, there are lots of festive activities, from photo ops and letters to Santa and a slide the kids will love.
That said, it can get busy and a bit chaotic, so if your little ones get overwhelmed by crowds, you might prefer to skip the pre-boarding fun and head straight to the train closer to your departure time.
⏰ Departure Times Matter
There are four departure times each evening: 4:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 7:15 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.
If you’re looking for that extra bit of Christmas magic, keep in mind that the 4:30 p.m. ride happens while it’s still light out, which can make it a little harder to feel “transported” to the North Pole. The later rides, when it’s dark, tend to feel more immersive and magical. But also think about your kids bedtime!
🚂 ALL ABOARD!
This isn’t just a stationary experience, the train actually leaves the station! It’s about a 20-minute ride to the North Pole and another 20 minutes back, filled with carols, dancing, storytime, and the timeless magic of The Polar Express. We never read the book or watched the movies but I do think it would help! It’s still magical either way! Our kids loved the elves. Dress up in your festive pajamas! Yes even the adults get in the holiday spirit.
There are lots of different ticket options and price points so be sure to read through all the options.
Children under 2 who can sit on a lap are free.
What’s the best age?
When we went for the first time, our son was two, and while he enjoyed the excitement, he didn’t quite understand the magic yet. When we went again at age three, it was perfect, he was completely captivated by the magic and Santa. Since I don’t have older kids I can’t fully answer the best age range but there are kids of all ages on board the train! It’s the perfect family friendly event.
🍪 Don’t Forget Snacks & Water
Each passenger gets a cookie and hot chocolate, but trust me, bring water! There’s no water available onboard. The first year we went we were all super thristy! Plus think about your ride time. If it overlaps with dinner think about bringing a snack for before your ride (or eat early!)
🎅 Meet Santa at the North Pole
As the train approaches the “North Pole,” kids will spot Santa and his elves waving outside before Santa hops on board! There’s an opportunity to chat with Santa, take a photo and every one receives the iconic silver bell, just like in the story.
🎡 Make a Full Night of It
After the train ride, keep the fun going right at St. Louis Union Station:
Enjoy dinner at Train Shed STL (which turns into Sleigh Shed, festive holiday pop-up!)
Ride the St. Louis Wheel or the new rides (tickets in November include a free ticket to a Wheel Park attraction)
Let the kids play on the playground or ride the carousel outside
Grab a drink at O’Tannen Bar, a bar INSIDE a Christmas tree
Or simply stroll through the lake area and take in the festive lights ✨
💸 Is It Worth It?
There’s no denying this is one of the pricier holiday experiences in St. Louis, and whether it’s “worth it” depends on your family. But I truly believe The Polar Express is one of the most unique and memorable Christmas experiences you can do with young kids.
If you want to save, go during the week! You can save up to 30% on select seating for weeknight rides. And for next year, keep an eye out in the summer, tickets often go on sale with early-bird discounts. Plus they’ve launched a new train car this year with the most discounted tickets they’ve offered! The new Holiday Saver tier features the same Polar Express experience that you know and love, with Golden Tickets starting at just $19.99! You can also use VIP5 for $5 off per ticket.
All in all, The Polar Express at St. Louis Union Station is a magical, family-friendly way to celebrate the season. Between the moving train, the music, the hot cocoa, and Santa himself, it’s a holiday tradition that brings the story to life.