THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Step aboard the North Pole Express for a festive train ride in Squamish, BC, where kids can meet Santa, decorate cookies, and immerse in holiday cheer. Discover what makes this seasonal railway adventure a standout family experience.
Step aboard the North Pole Express for a festive train ride in Squamish, BC, where kids can meet Santa, decorate cookies, and immerse in holiday cheer. Discover what makes this seasonal railway adventure a standout family experience.
Book with Railway Museum of British Columbia
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Railway Museum of British Columbia · Squamish, British Columbia
Located in the heart of Squamish, British Columbia, the Railway Museum of British Columbia offers a festive experience that transforms the cold winter months into a vibrant holiday celebration. The North Pole Express is more than just a ride; it’s a 50-minute journey on a vintage train that winds through scenic landscapes before arriving at Santa Claus’s magical home. Perfect for families, this seasonal adventure redefines traditional holiday outings with a blend of nostalgia, community spirit, and hands-on fun.
As the train hums along its 11-kilometer route, passengers of all ages get swept up in the immersive atmosphere. Each coach features spacious seating options from vintage leather to cozy quad seats, ensuring comfort whether you’re booked in Bronze, Silver, or Gold Class. The onboard experience is rich with engaging activities—children decorate gingerbread cookies, participate in holiday crafts, and write heartfelt letters to Santa, filling the air with laughter and creativity.
Upon arrival, visitors step into a festive environment centered around a massive Christmas model railway city and direct interaction with Santa Claus himself. Parents and kids alike will appreciate the attention to detail, from the decorated interiors to the complimentary North Pole Express mugs for Gold Class guests. The museum’s miniature railway ride adds an extra layer of delight, extending the adventure beyond the train journey.
The Railway Museum of BC has carved a unique niche in the Squamish outdoor and cultural landscape. By combining heritage railroading with seasonal enchantment, it offers locals and travelers a rare opportunity to connect with the spirit of the season through a hands-on, accessible experience. Its location amidst Squamish’s stunning natural backdrop—between the Coast Mountains and Howe Sound—adds to the charm, providing a breath of fresh air even on crisp winter days.
Whether dodging fall rains or basking in winter’s festive glow, the North Pole Express invites families to create cherished memories that will echo every holiday season.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Infants 0-23 months can ride on a lap with no ticket needed, but if you prefer a separate seat, a ticket must be purchased.
Yes, free parking is included with all ticket purchases.
Limited wheelchair seating is available; please call 604-898-9336 x2011 to arrange accommodations.
Classes vary by seating comfort and extras—from standard vintage seating in Bronze to leather seats, tables, and commemorative mugs in Gold Class.
The ride covers 11 kilometers and lasts approximately 50 minutes.
Yes, all coaches are heated and designed to keep passengers warm during the journey.
The Railway Museum of British Columbia preserves a rich legacy of railroading that shaped the region's economy and culture through the 19th and 20th centuries.
The museum promotes sustainable tourism by focusing on heritage preservation, low-impact activities, and educating visitors about the importance of regional environmental stewardship.
Located in Squamish, British Columbia, the Railway Museum of British Columbia is a featured attraction on The Adventure Collective that offers seasonal and family-focused train experiences. The museum operates themed trips that showcase historic rail travel and provide interactive activities for visitors. For 2025 the museum presents the North Pole Express, a 50-minute train ride where families meet Santa Claus in his holiday home. The North Pole Express includes cookie decorating, arts and crafts, and festive entertainment designed for guests of all ages. Visitors can expect a carefully staged holiday journey with staff-guided activities and a focus on family memories. The Railway Museum of British Columbia provides timed ticketing for special events such as the North Pole Express; advanced ticket purchase is recommended because seasonal runs often fill quickly. The museum’s offerings are suitable for households, groups, and repeat visitors seeking holiday programming in the Sea-to-Sky region. As a public-facing heritage organization featured in travel listings, the Railway Museum emphasizes safe, accessible experiences aboard heritage-style trains. On-site teams manage boarding, seating, and event schedules to maintain a consistent guest experience. The museum’s location in Squamish makes it accessible to residents and travelers exploring British Columbia. Prospective visitors should consult the museum’s official website or event pages for current schedules, ticket availability, and detailed visitor information. Seasonal programming, including the North Pole Express, focuses on family engagement and holiday traditions; visitors planning a trip are advised to book tickets early and review accessibility and safety information before arrival.
Book with Railway Museum of British Columbia