The Polar Express holiday experience returns to Arizona in 2023. How to get cheap tickets

Michael Salerno, Arizona Republic
Updated ·2 min read

For a few nights in November and December, the Grand Canyon Railway will take visitors to the North Pole.

The Polar Express, a holiday tradition for many families, is returning for the 2023 holiday season with 90-minute rides that will operate twice nightly from Nov. 9 to Dec. 30.

Based on the children's book "The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg and its 2004 film adaptation, the Polar Express train rides will feature readings of the story while passengers are served hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies, with a stop at the North Pole where Santa Claus and his reindeer await.

Tickets are now on sale, including value rates on select dates. Please note: several dates have already begun selling out.

Here's what to know about the 2023 Grand Canyon Railway Polar Express.

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How long is the Grand Canyon Polar Express?

The Polar Express rides will take place at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. each day from Nov. 9 to Dec. 30.

Rides are about 90 minutes roundtrip.

How much does the Polar Express cost in Arizona?

Tickets for the Polar Express rides are $70 for adults and $53 for children 15 and younger, before tax.

Grand Canyon Railway offers a discounted value rate on some days: Nov. 12, 15-16, 19, 27 and 29, and Dec. 4, 6-7, 11 and 13. The reduced rate is $58 for adults and $39 for children.

At the time of writing, the Grand Canyon Railway's website showed available tickets for all discounted dates.

Where is the Polar Express train in Arizona?

Polar Express trains on their way to the North Pole will depart from the Grand Canyon Railway's station at 233 North Grand Canyon Boulevard in Williams, Arizona.

Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure.

How can I get tickets for the Polar Express?

Tickets can be booked online at secure.thetrain.com/reserve/polar.

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Reach the reporter at Michael.Salerno@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @salerno_phx.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Grand Canyon Railway Polar Express is back. How to get cheap tickets