This 'Polar Express' Train Is One of the Most Festive Ways to Celebrate the Holidays-and It Goes Through a Stunning Mountain Town

"There is perhaps no better setting for a recreation of "The Polar Express" story than Durango, Colorado, a mountain town home to a vintage steam train. The steam locomotive, which was built in the early 1920s, makes the journey over the mountains between Durango and Silverton year-round. But, during the holidays, it transforms into The Polar Express for a special seasonal experience, transporting passengers to the "North Pole." This year, it's running on most days between Nov. 21, 2025, through Jan. 3, 2026."

"The magical journey begins at nightfall at the Durango Depot, where travelers anxiously wait for the powerful steam engine to chug around the corner. Tickets are collected, train cars are boarded, and the fun begins. As the train departs the depot for the North Pole to pick up Santa, onboard chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies, while dancing and acting out a reading from "The Polar Express" book."

Durango, Colorado's vintage steam locomotive, built in the early 1920s, runs between Durango and Silverton year-round and transforms into The Polar Express during the holidays, operating Nov. 21, 2025–Jan. 3, 2026. The nighttime journey departs the Durango Depot with ticketing and boarding before the train departs for the North Pole. Onboard chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies while performers dance and act out a reading from The Polar Express. A village of lights, glimpses of Santa and Mrs. Claus, and dancing elves greet passengers. Santa visits each car on the return to give the first gift of Christmas, followed by photos and wishes at the adjacent railroad museum. The experience is geared toward children but appeals to all ages and railroad enthusiasts.

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