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Oklahoma Polar Express Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: March 12, 2025

By: Adam Burns

As the holiday season approaches, families in Oklahoma seek festive ways to celebrate Christmas, and one of the most magical experiences is a Christmas-themed train ride. These enchanting excursions offer a perfect blend of nostalgia, adventure, and holiday spirit.

Whether you're a resident of Oklahoma or a visitor, these train rides offer a unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories. In this guide, we'll explore official "The Polar Express" events available in the state.

Currently, there is only one location hosting this relatively uncommon but popular activity, the Oklahoma Railway Museum in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma Railway Museum

(Oklahoma City): The state of Oklahoma offers few train rides for the public.  The Oklahoma Railway Museum is the lone exception, providing the public with trips over about 3 miles of track in Oklahoma City which historically was part of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (nicknamed the "Katy"). 

The organization began as the Central Oklahoma Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) in 1972 to preserve the state's rail history and provide excursions. 

The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of railroads in Oklahoma, contributing to the broader understanding of the pivotal role rail transport has played in the development of the state and the nation.

It took more than 25 years but the group finally secured their own 3-acre site in 1999.  In addition, after four more years of work it began hosting passenger trains in 2003. 

That year it enjoyed just 150 passengers; in five years the number had jumped to 16,000 by 2008.  Today, these numbers are even higher and the museum operates several excursions and specials throughout the spring, summer, and fall. 

Their static displays, cars, and locomotives are numerous including several diesels, passenger cars, freight cars, and other types of equipment.  The organization now offers official The Polar Express events.   The train ride lasts about one hour where the kids travel to the "North Pole" and meet Santa.

The Oklahoma Railway Museum offers tickets in "Value," "Standard," and "Premium" departure rates based on demand.  

More About The Museum

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of historic locomotives, such as steam engines that evoke the golden age of rail travel. These impressive machines are complemented by several diesel and electric engines, offering a comprehensive overview of the transitions in locomotive power. The museum's knowledgeable volunteers often provide guided tours, sharing interesting stories and facts about each train, enhancing the educational experience for visitors.

The Oklahoma Railway Museum is particularly family-friendly, providing engaging activities for children. Interactive displays and themed events encourage young visitors to learn about the history and mechanics of trains in an enjoyable way. The museum often organizes special programs, such as "A Day Out with Thomas" featuring a life-size replica of the beloved children’s character, Thomas the Tank Engine, which proves immensely popular with families.

Another major attraction is the museum's seasonal train rides. These excursions offer a unique opportunity to experience rail travel as it was in bygone days, taking passengers on scenic journeys through a part of Oklahoma City. The rides vary throughout the year, with themed events like Halloween and Christmas train rides adding festive elements to the mix.

The Oklahoma Railway Museum also plays a vital role in educational outreach, providing resources for teachers and students to explore topics related to physics, engineering, and history through the lens of railroads. It offers an excellent venue for school field trips, forging connections between classroom learning and real-world applications.

In addition to its exhibits and programs, the museum serves as a valuable community resource, hosting events and providing rental facilities for private gatherings. Through its preservation efforts and educational initiatives, the Oklahoma Railway Museum contributes significantly to the cultural landscape of Oklahoma City, ensuring the legacy of railroads remains an active and engaging part of the state's history for future generations to explore and appreciate.

Tips for Enjoying Your Experience

Early Booking: Due to their popularity, The Polar Express, wherever it's offered, can sell out weeks to months in advance, so it's crucial to book your tickets early.

Dress Warmly: Even though most train cars are heated, dressing in warm layers is recommended, especially for evening rides.

Arrive Early: Arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure allows time for parking and boarding.

Check Weather Conditions: While Oklahoma winters aren't harsh, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out, as inclement weather can impact schedules.

Remember the Camera: Immortalize the magical moments with photos, especially of children interacting with Santa and the holiday decorations.

The nostalgic charm and festive atmosphere of Christmas train rides, especially The Polar Express, offer an enchanting escape into a world of twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Whether you're reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, this particular event is a splendid way to celebrate the season.