Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Polar Express Train Ride Is Coming Soon

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

The Fall Color Run is a three-hour trip which runs throughout November, with gorgeous views of streams and leaves.

This seven-mile ride will take you through Kentucky's Woodford County. And each October they have Pumpkin Patch trains that kids will love.

This 40-mile trek will take you through Ozark Mountains and offer plenty of beauty. They offer numerous trips each day so you can find one that fits your schedule.

Bring the whole family to experience the breathtaking views of the leaves in West Virginia.

The conductor of the train will narrate this hour-long excursion as you view the wonders of Missouri and North Arkansas.

We all know how beautiful N.C. is in the fall, and now you can experience it by train. Bryson City isn't a far drive, so this is a great day trip.

All aboard to see Chattanooga's Lookout Mountain! The views get better and better the higher the train climbs. This is like going on a train rollercoaster

Talk about dinner with a view! Enjoy amazing food while taking in the breathtaking views.

You can pick between two excursions, a two-hour trip or an eight-hour trip and check out the sights and sounds of West Virginia.

This ride is great for the kids as it's only 55 minutes long.

With the depot near the University of Tennessee, you can not only see the leaves change, but explore the campus too!

Check out the scenery of the Alleghany Mountains and be on the lookout for Helmstetter's Horseshoe Curve.

This excursion isn't close to us, but if you have some vacation time you may wanna check it out. They have an Autumn Leaf Special running in October and November.