I've never met a kid who didn't love a train, and every winter, Pittsburgh parents start looking for the best place to see holiday trains, where can they see miniature train displays, and where to go for the best Polar Express and holiday train experiences near Pittsburgh. We've done some digging, and here's the scoop from some local Pittsburgh parents on their favorite miniature train displays, Polar Express, and Holiday Train experiences for their families! Plan ahead as many of these Christmas train rides sell out quickly! Choo choo!

Polar Express & Holiday Train Experiences | Holiday Train Displays | Local Malls with Christmas Trains

All Aboard for these Polar Express & Holiday Train Experiences around Pittsburgh

The Polar Express | Dennison Depot 

400 Center Street, Dennison, Ohio 44621

Put on your favorite pair of pajamas and hop aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS^TM for a magical journey to the North Pole!  The Dennison Depot offers the authentic POLAR EXPRESS^TM Train ride, sanctioned by Warner Brothers and Rail Events. dennisondepot.org

What you need to know about The Polar Express at Dennison Depot:

• 1.5 hour drive from Pittsburgh, making this an easy day trip
• Polar Express trips run Thursday through Sunday in December at 6 pm and 8 pm, with additional train times of 2 pm & 4 pm on Saturdays & Sundays.
• Ticket prices range from $51-82 per person  
• everyone ages 1 and older requires a ticket. 
• 90-minute experience 
• you must arrive an hour early to ensure boarding 
• Tickets go on sale to the public in August
• First Class seating includes the opportunity to wait and relax in seats inside the First Class Waiting Room. The POLAR EXPRESS™ Conductor will personally greet the group from the Waiting Room to the train as you will be first to board. On the train, each First Class child ages 1-12 will receive an engineer’s hat, a wooden train whistle, and another special treat onboard the train. First Class Cars include tables or table trays at your seats. First Class Private Compartment seats up to 6 passengers, or you can book a First Class Private Car that seats 28 or 44.
• Additional private whole car rentals include Deluxe Car (52 passengers) and Coach Car (60 or 72 passengers)

What Pittsburgh parents have to say about The Polar Express at Dennison Depot:

• Pittsburgh moms suggest booking first class for the extra perks 
• some moms don't feel they get the value for their money

The Polar Express™ Train Ride| Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

13 Canal Street, Cumberland, MD 21502

Inspired by the hit movie, this Mountain Maryland holiday favorite comes to life on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad during the holiday season for The Polar Express™ train ride! Passengers board beautifully adorned vintage train cars, where the enchanting atmosphere is enhanced by cheerful music and festive decorations. As the train winds through the picturesque landscape of the Allegheny Mountains, children and adults alike are immersed in the spirit of the season. Characters from the story come to life, sharing stories and treats while the aroma of hot cocoa and cookies fills the air. This delightful journey culminates in a visit from Santa, creating cherished memories that capture the wonder of the holidays. wmsr.com

What you need to know about the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Polar Express:

• approximate 2-hour drive from Pittsburgh
• operates weekends only starting November 29th through Christmas Eve
• Tickets range from $40 - $70 depending on class, 
• ages 2 and under free on lap
• duration of train ride is 1 hour
• All passengers are provided hot chocolate, a cookie, and a commemorative silver sleigh bell.
• Due to the historic nature of the equipment, the train at WSMR is not ADA accessible, and mobility assistance devices cannot be brought aboard the train. 

What Pittsburgh parents have to say about Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Polar Express:

• Pittsburgh moms differ in their opinion of upgrading to the VIP package
• if you want to stay overnight, there is a hotel with a pool 10 minutes from the station.
• Overall of moms surveyed, they would do this Polar Express again

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad North Pole Adventure

1630 Mill Street West, Peninsula, Ohio

This is more than just a train ride – it’s an immersive experience that will create cherished memories for children and adults of all ages. Watch in awe as the winter wonderland unfolds before your eyes, and feel the warmth of the Christmas spirit fill the air. Be greeted by Santa’s cheerful elves as you step into a world of pure magic. Sip on delightful hot chocolate, savor delicious cookies, and let your voice soar with joyous carols.  cvsr.org

What you need to know about Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad North Pole Adventure:

• approximate 2-hour drive from Pittsburgh
• Operates 7 days a week starting mid-November through December
• Tickets ranging from $45 – $92 (excluding fees)
• ages 2 and under on lap are free
• Round trip ride is 90 minutes
• Ticket sales start in October
• Car seats and strollers are not permitted on the train
• North Pole Adventure™ offers an accessible car with a lift for passengers with mobility issues

What Pittsburgh parents have to say about Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad North Pole Adventure:

• the biggest attraction here seems to be that this train ride is not limited to weekends, but available all week long for those with a flexible schedule looking to avoid weekend crowds. 
• one of the only train rides with daytime departures
• there's a local hotel with an indoor pool making this a super fun weekend adventure

Everett Railroad Santa Express

244 Pullman Drive, Hollidaysburg, PA

Children of all ages will enjoy a scenic steam-powered ride through the winter countryside and a visit with Santa in Hollidaysburg, PA. Hot Cocoa and Cookies will be provided and children receive a small gift. It is sure to become your favorite holiday tradition! everettrailroad.com

What you need to know about Everett Railroad Santa Express:

• approximate 2.5 hour drive from Pittsburgh
• operates Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays starting the last weekend in November through December with 6 departure times per day
• tickets ranging from $21-$32, $6/7 for children under 2
• round trip ride is 1 hour
• Pittsburgh moms say it isn't the best one they have been on, but that it is very affordable
• if you spend the might, be sure to check out the Christmas Light Show at Lakemont Park

Christmas at Cass | Mountain Rail West Virginia

315 Railroad Ave, Elkins, WV

The steam-powered journey will depart the Cass depot and travel along the scenic Greenbrier River in decorated & heated coaches. Each child will receive a special surprise gift during the ride, which is included in the ticket price. The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and Friends of Cass offer a variety of activities and events throughout the weekend, including visits from Santa! During the evening, watch as the town of Cass and Greenbrier River Trail come alive with thousands of lights! mountainrailwv.com

What you need to know about MRWV's Christmas at Cass:

• approximate 4-hour drive from Pittsburgh
• Operates Thursdays through Sundays in December with 12 pm and 2 pm departures each day and an additional 4 pm departure on Saturdays
• Tickets range from $41-$56
• Children 3 and under are free (but still require a ticket)
• Duration approximately 75 to 90 minutes
• The Cass Christmas Train features enclosed cars with either seats in a bus-stye format or at a traditional 4-top table.
• Limited seating available inside historic Chesapeake & Ohio caboose at the rear of the train
• The Cass Christmas Train is NOT wheelchair accessible.
• restrooms available onboard (except in caboose)

What Pittsburgh parents have to say about MRWV's Christmas at Cass:

• Book well in advance if you have a large party - some families had to book a year in advance

Ohio Christmas Train | Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

33 West Canal Street, Nelsonville, OH 45764

Santa Train, has been a long-standing family tradition for over four decades — 40+ years of family fun! Santa gets on board the train and visits with each child as the train traverses the historic (and with any luck, snow-covered) Hocking River Valley. Each coach is heated and decorated inside and out. Christmas music plays throughout the train over the audio system, and after Santa’s visit, each child receives a special candy cane treat. Make sure your child or grandchild brings his or her Christmas wishlist to share with Santa!

What you need to know about Ohio Christmas Train:

• approximate 3-hour drive from Pittsburgh
• Operates Saturday and Sunday, November 30th through Sunday, Dec. 22 with 11 am and 2 pm departures and a 6 pm departure on select nights
• Tickets range from $19 - $24
• Children under 3 are free, but must sit on lap
• Duration approximately 2 hours

Santa Train | Orville Railroad Heritage Society Rail Yard

2174 South Crown Hill Road, Orville, OH 44667

Come ride with jolly ol' Saint Nick at Orville Railroad rail yard. Bring the kids for a visit with Santa as he collects their wish lists while riding in coach #208 to Winter Wonderland. The coach holds a maximum of 66 passengers, so reserve your seats early. Hot cocoa and cookies will be served following the ride, and kids get a goodie bag. orrvillerailroad.com

What you need to know about Santa Train at Orville Railroad Heritage Society Rail Yard:

• approximate 2 hours and 15 minutes drive from Pittsburgh
• Fridays & Saturdays in December
• duration 40 minutes
• Tickets are $35/seat + fees
• lap children under 2 are free

North Pole Express | Potomac Eagle

149 Eagle Dr. Romney, WV 26757

Step aboard the North Pole Express for a festive 75-minute train ride filled with storytelling, holiday cheer, and magical moments. As you travel, enjoy milk and Mrs. Claus’ famous cookies while listening to our unique Christmas tale, “Yes, West Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.” Watch characters from our Holiday production of “The Nutcracker” dance through your car and discover how “The Potomac Eagle Saves Christmas.”  potomaceagle.com

What you need to know about North Pole Express:

• approximate 3-hour drive from Pittsburgh
• Fridays & Saturdays starting November 15th through December 8th (Sundays start November 24th). Daily December 13th - 23rd. S
• duration 75 minutes
• plan to arrive approximately 2 hours before your departure to fully enjoy activities.
• tickets range from $47 - $67
• lap children under 23 months are free

Santa Trolley at Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

1 Electric Way, Washington, PA

While the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum does not offer a Polar Express-branded event, Pittsburgh parents are very willing to accept their holiday offerings as the real thing.  Pennsylvania Trolley Museum has recently undergone a makeover to a larger, updated space, making the Santa Trolley experience grander than ever! When you book your Santa Trolley ticket you can expect a ride on a beautifully restored antique streetcar with caroling, cookies, hot cocoa, and plenty of interaction with the big man!   pa-trolley.org

What you need to know about Santa Trolley at PA Trolley Museum:

• located in Washington County, just a short drive from Pittsburgh!
• operates Saturdays & Sundays starting November 29th from 9 am - 4:25 pm 
• Tickets range from $23-$5
• Children under 2 are free but require a ticket and must ride in the lap of an adult
• Tickets include a second festive trolley ride aboard the Yuletide Shuttle – a shorter 8 to 10-minute ride that departs regularly/on demand.
• Visitors can also experience the Trolley Display Building during Santa Trolley

What Pittsburgh parents have to say about Santa Trolley at PA Trolley Museum:

• they can't say enough about their "Glow Up" over the last few years and truly love this local experience for their younger kids. 

Jolly Trolley Holiday Trolley Tours | Molly's Trolleys

Downtown Pittsburgh

See Pittsburgh’s holiday traditions come to life from the comfort of a 1920s vintage-style trolley. Visit and see several holiday favorites of the city including PPG Plaza, the Pittsburgh Crèche, Mr. Rogers statue, and more! Special youth guests might even receive a small gift - sent all the way from the North Pole! Tickets are $15/adult and $10/children under 12. mollystrolleyspgh.com

What you need to know about Jolly Trolley Holiday Sightseeing Tour:

• All tours begin in the North Shore of Pittsburgh
• operates Saturdays & Sundays from November 30th to December 22nd
• 1-hour duration
• prices are $30/adult & $20/children 11 and under

Holiday Train Displays around Pittsburgh

36th Holiday Train Display at Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum 

Gibsonia, PA

The Holiday Train Display opens November 9th, 2024 with varied hours. The requested donation for The Holiday Train Show are 10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children under 12. wpmrm.org

Miniature Railroad and Village at Carnegie Science Center

North Shore, PA 

The miniature village and model trains at the Carnegie Science Center encapsulate iconic Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania landmarks, from Primanti’s and Kaufmann’s to Fallingwater and the largest train display in Western PA! The Miniature Railroad, which celebrated its’ 100^th Anniversary in 2019, features hundreds of wonderfully realistic animated scenes that illustrate the Pittsburgh region’s rich and diverse history up until 1940. New models are added annually to the village. carnegiesciencecenter.org

The Grand Concourse

Station Square, PA

Step into the beautifully preserved Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station turned restaurant for their Sunday brunch, and you will not be disappointed. Kids will marvel in awe over the cathedral ceilings while keeping their eyes peeled for the trains that inevitably pass by. This is a Pittsburgh train experience that both children and their parents will love!

Trolley and Toy Trains | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum

1 Electric Way, Washington, PA 15301

On Fridays during the month of December, you’re invited to enjoy holiday toy train layouts at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum! From 10 AM to 4 PM (last ticket sold at 3:15), visitors will be able to ride a festive trolley and view the holiday Lionel toy train layout and a seasonal LEGO display from Steel City LUG. Regular admission rates apply. Admission includes trolley rides and access to train layouts.  pa-trolley.org

Bethel Park Historical Society Holiday Train Display

Bethel Park, PA

Waiting for 2024 info

Local Malls with Christmas Trains for Kids to Ride in:

All Aboard the Robinson Express! at The Mall at Robinson

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday Noon - 6pm, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11am - 7pm, Sunday Noon - 5pm, Christmas Eve 11am - 5pm. 1 ticket $3.50 I 4 tickets $11, cash only. 

Holiday Express at Ross Park Mall

Kids can take a ride on the Holiday Express train Monday-Thursday: 11AM-7PM, Friday-Saturday: 10AM-8PM, and Sunday: 11AM-6PM. Located in the Center Court, next to Santa!

Santa's Express at Monroeville Mall

Located on the upper level near Santa and Cinemark, this festive train ride is a must for the kiddos. Don't miss out on this merry adventure. $3.50 each or 4 rides for $10.00. Cash only

Join The Waterfront for the Let It Glow Celebration! Sunday, November 17, 2024 • 3-6pm It’s Our Holiday Celebration for the Whole Family! Celebrate the start of the 2024 holiday season with entertainment for the whole family and the annual lighting of our Christmas tree! Santa Arrives at 3pm Live Music Kids’ Activities (including train rides) Tree Lighting at 6pm It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss! Donations are welcome, benefiting Jeremiah’s Place.

Do you have a favorite holiday train display that's not on our list, or photo or tips to share about any of these experiences? 

We'd love to hear about it!

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