The Polar Express Comes to Life in Kentucky with Hot Chocolate, Santa, and Holiday Magic

Just like it was yesterday, I remember sitting in the movie theater in 2004, watching The Polar Express, and thinking that this movie would one day make an amazing attraction somewhere. I'm not patting myself on the back; that was a no-brainer. Of course, the "somewhere" turned into everywhere, and aren't we fortunate?

Christmas Attractions

When I was a kid, my favorites would be considered quaint by today's standards. Back then, Santa Claus Land (pre-Holiday World) was like a fantasy land, yet it was a fraction of the size of the theme park as we know it today. Additionally, there were only a handful of kiddie rides.

Then there was the "Enchanted World of Christmas" in the old downtown Evansville courthouse. It featured a tour of Christmas scenes consisting of a combination of hand-crafted and store-bought props. We loved it.

The Polar Express Train Ride

In 2025, however, we've advanced way past papier-mâché reindeer and cotton ball snow, and into the world of motion-capture-animation-inspired holiday journeys.

I love a good train ride, and it might not get much better than the Big South Fork Scenic Railway's Polar Express Train Ride, complete with hot chocolate and a warm cookie baked by the Polar Express Chefs. And, well, the big guy himself. Needless to say, you can't do this train ride without Santa Claus.

While on your journey, you will also receive a sleigh bell from Santa. It's the "first gift of Christmas." Then it's carol singing all the way back to the depot in Stearns, Kentucky, where your trip begins.

Beginning on the 15th, Polar Express Train Rides will happen on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout November and through the first weekend in December. The schedule expands to daily rides on December 12th.