Experience the North Pole Express in Parrish, Florida: A Festive Family Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families with young children and seniors
Overview
Board the North Pole Express at the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish for a magical 35-minute train ride filled with festive activities, Santa visits, and holiday treats—perfect for families visiting Florida this December.
North Pole Express - Excursion Class
All Ages • 3.5 Hours • Assigned Seats • Enclosed Coaches
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of the North Pole Express this December! Enjoy a cozy 35-minute train ride from Parrish, FL, with comfortable seating and adjustable windows. Once you arrive, indulge in unlimited cookies and hot chocolate, visit Santa, and partake in festive activities that create unforgettable holiday memories.
Limited Excursion Class Seating Available
Real-time inventory availability is displayed on our website. If you do not see a date or time listed for purchase, all tickets for that trip have been sold.
The Museum does not have a wait list for cancellations. Should any cancellations occur, the inventory is immediately bookable online.
All Aboard!
The North Pole Express operates every December at the Florida Railroad Museum for a 35 minute train trip from Parrish, FL to the magical North Pole.
Excursion Class offers comfortable, assigned seating in an enclosed coach car.
Excursion Plus service in Car 3155 includes climate control while Car 821 features adjustable windows. Both cars offer restrooms.
Seats will be automatically assigned before departure. Large groups traveling together should make one booking to ensure seating together. We apologize the Museum is unable to guarantee separate bookings will be seated together.
Car 821
- Coach # 821 features comfortable, upholstered seats.
- Windows are adjustable for ventilation.
Car 3155
- Comfortable coach seating.
- Climate controlled.
Who Needs a Ticket?
- Everyone Age 1 and Up need a ticket to ride. Infants under one year old may travel as a lap rider. Please note, strollers and car seats are not permitted onboard.
What's Included With My Ticket?
After your 35 minute train trip everyone will detrain at the North Pole. Lots of activities are included:
- Unlimited Cookies and Hot Chocolate at the North Pole
- The Toy tent
- Making Reindeer Food
- Christmas Storytelling
- Model Train Exhibit
- Campfires
- Visit with Santa Claus
- A free gift from Santa for every child
Adventure Tips
Book Early to Secure Seats
Excursion Class seating is limited and assigned before departure. Book as a group to sit together.
No Strollers or Car Seats Onboard
Plan to leave strollers and car seats behind as they aren’t permitted on the train for safety reasons.
Dress for Florida’s December Outdoors
Even in winter, Florida can be warm or cool—layer clothing to stay comfortable on the ride and at the North Pole area.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Arriving at least 30 minutes ahead helps smooth boarding and gives time to explore before departure.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Northern mockingbird
- Florida scrub-jay
History
The Florida Railroad Museum preserves a historic rail line originally part of the Seaboard Air Line Railway, connecting Parrish to Florida’s rail past.
Conservation
The museum encourages sustainable tourism by maintaining vintage rail equipment and promoting environmentally friendly activities in local recreation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bradenton
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Jacket or Sweater
Florida December evenings can be cool—layer comfortably for warmth during and after the ride.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture moments with Santa, the model train exhibit, and festive decorations at the North Pole station.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the outing, especially if visiting with kids.
Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking around the North Pole activity areas.