Ride with Santa
Join Santa aboard a vintage 1920s train for a storytelling journey to the “North Pole.”
-
$23 USD
-
All Ages
-
2 Hours
-
Pennsylvania, United States
-
Middletown
-
- Festive Highlights
-
- Two-hour round-trip holiday train experience. Includes Santa visit and gift for each child.
Polar Bear Express Train Ride with Santa Features
Classic Christmas Train Experience
Step aboard vintage coaches for a festive family ride with Santa and the Conductor’s Christmas tale.
North Pole Stop
Santa greets every child with a special holiday gift before reboarding the train.
Family Memories in Motion
A cozy, two-hour adventure through Pennsylvania’s scenic countryside.
Polar Bear Express Train Ride with Santa Details
- Highlights
- Description
- Itinerary
- Price & Availability
- Food & Drink
- Instructions
- Restrictions
- Transportation
Highlights
-
Historic Train Cars
-
Family Tradition
-
Storytelling Fun
-
Santa’s Gift Stop
-
Holiday Spirit
-
Photo Moments
-
Scenic Countryside
-
Onboard Treats
Description
All aboard for the *Polar Bear Express*, a heartwarming holiday tradition on the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad! Families climb aboard restored 1920s coaches for a two-hour journey filled with Christmas magic, laughter, and anticipation. As the train winds along the scenic Swatara Creek, the Conductor shares a festive story that captivates young and old alike. At the “North Pole,” Santa himself boards the train, greeting each child with a personal gift while families snap photos of the moment. The train’s nostalgic décor and vintage details make it a charming trip back in time, complete with cozy seating, cheerful carols, and the twinkle of Christmas lights reflecting off the windows. Parents can enjoy light refreshments available from the snack car, while little ones giggle with excitement as Santa makes his way through the aisles. With its combination of storytelling, scenery, and the spirit of giving, the *Polar Bear Express* captures the essence of small-town Christmas cheer. Seats sell out quickly each year, so gather your loved ones, don your festive sweaters, and ride along on Pennsylvania’s most endearing holiday train adventure.
Itinerary
4:30 PM Arrival → Check in at the 1891 Freight Station and visit the Gift Shop. 5:00 PM Departure → Board the 1920s vintage train and settle into your seats. 5:15 PM Story Time → The Conductor narrates a Christmas tale as the train rolls along the Swatara Creek. 6:00 PM North Pole Stop → Santa boards the train to greet every child and deliver gifts. 6:45 PM Return Trip → Enjoy holiday music and photo opportunities with Santa before heading back to Middletown. 7:00 PM Arrival → Visit the station’s shop for souvenirs before departure.
Price & Availability
$23 Adults | $18 Children (2–11) | $6 Infants (lap only).
Food & Drink
Concessions and restrooms available at station.
Instructions
Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in.
Restrictions
Event runs rain, snow, or shine.
Transportation
Portable restrooms available on Santa trains.






