THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience the magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at The Bellarine Railway. Perfect for families, this scenic holiday train ride transforms Victorian scenery into a Christmas fairy tale, complete with performances and festive cheer.
Experience the magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at The Bellarine Railway. Perfect for families, this scenic holiday train ride transforms Victorian scenery into a Christmas fairy tale, complete with performances and festive cheer.
Book with The Bellarine Railway
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
958 ratings
Operated by The Bellarine Railway · Queenscliff, Victoria
The Bellarine Railway, located in Victoria, Australia, offers a holiday experience unlike any other with their THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Carriage: Silver Bell. Every December, this historic railway transforms into a winter wonderland inspired by the beloved Christmas story. The journey begins aboard vintage carriages, where families don pajamas and step into the magical world of THE POLAR EXPRESS™. As the train chugs along, passengers are immersed in a theatrical adventure filled with captivating storytelling, music, and surprises, making it a truly heartwarming holiday tradition. The Silver Bell carriage itself is a highlight, decorated to evoke the cozy magic of the classic film, creating perfect photo opportunities and lasting memories.
Set amidst the scenic landscapes of Victoria, this event leverages the region’s charming rural scenery to enhance the festive ambiance. The railway’s nostalgic ambiance, combined with the holiday-themed performances, makes it a stand-out choice for families seeking joyful, shared experiences. The event emphasizes community spirit and childhood wonder, with actors bringing the Polar Express characters to life right on the train. Visitors can anticipate an evening packed with festive activities, seasonal treats, and the iconic bell that symbolizes the magic of Christmas.
Why is this experience unique? Because it captures both the historic charm of Victoria’s railway heritage and the universal magic of the holiday season. The Bellarine Railway has carefully curated this event to ensure it remains accessible and engaging for all ages, helping preserve local history while creating fresh holiday traditions. With its blend of scenic rail travel, festive performances, and a dash of holiday magic, this journey stands out as a must-do for families looking to add a special touch to their holiday calendar.
The Bellarine Railway is situated near Geelong, and this seasonal event is a perfect way to combine a scenic train ride with festive cheer. Whether it’s the joy of sharing stories, capturing photos of loved ones, or simply enjoying the holiday spirit in motion, this experience promises to deliver seasonal magic that lasts well beyond December.
Moderate.
6–8 hours.
Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity.
Yes, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Carriage is designed to be enjoyable for children and adults alike, with entertainment tailored for families.
The scenic ride lasts approximately an hour, giving ample time for storytelling and festive fun.
Yes, tickets are highly recommended to secure your spot, especially during the busy holiday season.
The railway strives for accessibility; please contact them in advance for specific arrangements.
The event follows current health guidelines to ensure a safe environment for all guests.
Outside food and gifts are generally not permitted, but seasonal treats are available for purchase.
The Bellarine Railway was established in 1984, preserving historic Victorian rolling stock and celebrating regional rail history.
The railway prioritizes sustainable practices, including minimization of waste and preservation of local heritage while maintaining eco-friendly operations.
The Bellarine Railway is a heritage railway based in Queenscliff, Victoria, operating historic steam and heritage train experiences along the Bellarine Peninsula. It runs regular heritage services from the historic Queenscliff Station and stages seasonal and special-event trips that appeal to families, rail enthusiasts and visitors to the region. Annual December events include THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Carriage experiences—Arctic Circle, Northern Lights, Caribou Crossing and Silver Bell—presented as theatrical, family-friendly journeys where guests are invited to wear pajamas and join the Conductor in an immersive holiday story. Steamlight Nights offers a magical winter evening aboard a steam train with a 60-minute round trip to Lakers Siding, featuring fire pits, twinkling lights, snow effects, marshmallow toasting and family activities. The Bellarine Rail Trail Run partners with the running community to provide transport and support options for the BRT Run, with train services to the start and opportunities to watch the event from the train between Queenscliff and Drysdale. Swan Bay Express heritage train rides travel along Swan Bay from Queenscliff Station, with activity sheets for children and pet-friendly services on select Sundays and holidays. Ticketed services run on scheduled dates with public timetables and advance booking recommended for themed and seasonal departures each year.
Book with The Bellarine Railway