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Charlie & Debbie

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride Is Coming Soon

Author Debbie Nance
A child receives the silver sleigh bell from the conductor on the Polar Express Train Ride as we learn more about the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Polar Express Train Ride.

Now is the time to start scouting out those holiday events for the family. And, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride is coming soon, believe it or not! But, this ride is all about believing. So, let’s explore all you need to know about planning this magical outing for your family.

When Is The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride?

According to RomanticAsheville.com, the favorite holiday tradition is available for booking from November 7 through December 31 this year. Of course, there are no rides on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day. But, let’s examine all the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride has to offer.

Kids of all ages, including adults, are welcome to experience this amazing event. It all begins in one of our favorite spots, Bryson City. Based on the beloved book which was made even more popular by the Tom Hanks film, the story is that of a young boy who embarks on a magical train ride on Christmas Eve. His destination is The North Pole, where he receives that very special gift from Santa.

More About The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Ride

And, in an incredible recreation of the story, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride is a more than hour long trip from the Bryson City depot through enchanting woods to the “North Pole.” The riders are treated to a soundtrack from the film, hot chocolate and the ultimate arrival at Santa’s stomping grounds.

But, the most exciting moment is when Santa climbs aboard and presents each child with their very own silver sleigh bell! And, the return trip is filled with joy and Christmas carols along with plenty of happy children and memories they’ll cherish a lifetime.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride as a child tired from the excitement naps on his mom's lap
Debbie Nance
A child tired out from the excitement of the Polar Express train ride naps all the way home on his mom’s lap.

Years ago we took our son on a Polar Express Train ride in Birmingham. It truly was an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend treating your family for a Christmas you’ll cherish.

Santa and a child on the Polar Express Train Ride as we learn about the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Polar Express Train Ride
Debbie Nance
Santa with a child on the Polar Express Train Ride

Details And Ticket Prices For The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Make sure you reserve early to get the dates you really want due to the popularity of the ride. Rides are typically between 1 and 5 each day of operation. And, museum admission comes with each train ticket purchase. As far as weather, the train runs even in rain. So, if you want to reschedule, do so at least 48 hours in advance, for a small ticket fee.

Plus, make sure you get there about an hour before departure. And, there’s plenty to see and do in the Bryson City area along with photo ops.

Prices start at $29.00 for Coach Class Child tickets ages 2-12, 0-23 months are free but infants must have their own seat. Adults Coach Class tickets are $44.00. Coach features windows that can open, ceiling fans and heat. Guests receive cocoa, a cookie and the silver sleigh bell for each child.

There are upgrades if you’d like to pay more and receive plush seating, better views and other souvenirs. Crown Class, Premium Crown Class and First Class are available, including add ons such as tables and souvenir mugs. The First Class 4-top table goes for $249. So, visit the website to explore your options and plan your magical trip. And, remember to wear your PJ’s!

Debbie Nance is the afternoon co-host along with her husband on "The Charlie and Debbie Show" at WSOC, Country 1037 in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has been with the station for 18 years. Debbie is a CMA Award winner for Radio Personality of the Year. And, she has worked in radio for 40 years. Before her current afternoon position, Debbie spent more than a decade as co-host on morning shows in several markets across the Southeast. As a content creator for Country 1037, Debbie writes articles about food, new restaurants in the Carolinas and travel experiences.

North Carolina Town On List Of Best Train Rides For Fall

This morning I woke up at 6:30 a.m. and took the pups out to go potty. It was a bit chilly when I walked outside, and the feeling of fall was in the air. It’s not here yet, but it’s coming! Fall is my favorite time of the year and here in the South, you can experience the beauty of the season in many ways. If you’d like to see the gorgeous fall foliage, a train ride is a cool way to check it out.

Southern Living has the ’14 Best Train Rides for Spotting Fall Foliage’ and there are some spots that aren’t too far from us here in the Charlotte area. Driving up to the N.C. mountains to see the leaves changing colors is fun, but if you’re the driver, you can miss some of the beauty. Taking a train ride is a great way to experience the gorgeous fall colors.

Bryson City, N.C. is on the list and it’s not a far drive from us. You can hop aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and bask in the amazing colors of the mountains. You can see the vibrant foliage of Western North Carolina, and you can ride in their open-air gondola or dine in the first-class car. There are numerous packages to choose from, and there are different events to check out.

Now is the time to plan a fun trip to see the colors changing and you can pick a fun location from the list below. Pictures are a must on these rides!

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