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All Aboard The Polar Express Saratoga – A New York Christmas

All aboard the Polar Express Saratoga! What a fun party! Are your children fans of ‘The Polar Express’? Well, now you can actually RIDE IT!

How could I pass up this opportunity for my little ones? We only have a small window where magic still exists in their world and I’m going to do every single thing in my power to prolong their wonderment.

polar express saratoga

We made a weekend out of it – a surprise weekend!! The kids had no idea we were heading to Saratoga to ride ‘The Polar Express’. We just told them to pack their bags and bring a toy for a long ride. It took us about 4 hours from Long Island to Saratoga — but we are old pros after our summer road trip. The kids didn’t even complain ONCE.

If you don’t want to drive, don’t worry! Amtrak will get you and your family to the Polar Express New York with ease.

polar express new york

There are several different types of tickets you can purchase for ‘The Polar Express’. We were seated in the Diamond car which meant we had reserved seats and thank goodness we did! I made a mistake on my calendar and accidentally had the wrong time down. We thankfully got there in time and because of our Diamond tickets, we had great seats on a double top car waiting for us.

polar express saratoga ny

Decorations and Christmas music blanketed the train. The Polar Express Saratoga was exactly how I imagined it would look. One small thing… I didn’t put my children in pajamas! AHHHH I forgot! All the kids on the train were in Christmas PJs and our group looked like a bunch of jaded NYers. Black and grey – head to toe. WOOPS.

saratoga christmas

Once the train started rolling, everyone on board got to enjoy hot chocolate and cookies along with a little entertainment. We took home the mugs as souvenirs which I thought was a special treat. Something to remind us about our magical ‘Polar Express’ New York train ride.

train ride on board the polar express

Elves and Santa’s helpers raced up and down the train and played games with the kids, posed for photos and more. At one point, we listened to ‘The Polar Express’ together while the helpers walked around showing the pictures of the books to the kids. So so special.

Then – the moment we were all waiting for. The North Pole!! We rode by it and the children stared out the window looking for the big guy. Santa!! And there he was — waving to everyone who passed his little town.  The train stopped and Mr. Claus hopped on board.

a santa visit in saratoga

Santa took pictures with all the children, asked them what they wanted for Christmas and handed each child THE BELL. If you know the book, you know what bell I’m talking about. 🙂

Grab your kids, book your tickets and head on over to The Polar Express Saratoga. It’s a memory that will last a lifetime.

Saratoga Inn NY

While in Saratoga, be sure to stay at ‘The Inn at Saratoga‘. The hotel sits on the main street where all the shops and restaurants are located which makes it really easy to plan out your day.

We had a room with two grand beds. Just look at that woodwork!  If you are a history buff, you will appreciate the fact that ‘The Inn at Saratoga’ is the oldest operating hotel in town.

Breakfast is included for overnight guests which was a REAL treat Sunday morning! No running outside in the cold looking for a place to eat for this family. Great location combined with a mix of history. (And if you can’t make it this season – know that The Inn at Saratoga in ONE MILE from the horse track. So it’s perfect for high season as well. )

Polar Express Book Cover

Are you a fan of ‘The Polar Express’? You have a few more weeks before Christmas. PLEASE do this!! It was so much fun for my entire family and we loved adding it to our Christmas tradition. Everyone on board was so happy – some parents were even tearing up when their little ones saw the North Pole for the very first time. It was just so special.

* I was provided hotel accommodations and tickets in exchange for review

Lizzys

Tuesday 10th of December 2013

Sounds like so much fun. I just watched the movie the other night. Love the bell part. I've stayed at the Inn at Saratoga in August during the race season. Love that place !!!

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