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White Mountain Hotel and Resort

From Jackson to the North Pole: Don't Miss Your Ticket on the Polar Express

The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time for family gatherings, shopping, and, of course, all the seasonal traditions that help put us in a festive spirit.

From baking Christmas cookies and decorating your home to checking out local light displays, these are all great ways to spend time with family and friends. But of all the holiday traditions, nothing beats cozying up and watching your favorite holiday movie to really give you all the nostalgic and cheerful feels.

Well...what if we told you that you and your family can actually experience one quintessential Christmas story this year and not just through a screen. For decades, the Journey to the North Pole™ has created holiday magic by taking families on a spectacular train ride through the White Mountains of New Hampshire to see Santa at his workshop in the North Pole!

Read on to learn more about the one-of-a-kind Polar Express train experience in Jackson so you can plan your ideal holiday outing this year.

What to Expect From The Polar Express Jackson, NH

When you step on the Polar Express train in New Hampshire, you’ll feel transported into the iconic children’s book and subsequent movie that have become holiday favorites. This year, Journey to the North Pole™ will be operating exclusively out of North Conway, with the historic train station in the center of town being decked out in classic Christmas decorations to immediately put you in the holiday spirit.

However, it’s the train that’s the star of the show. When you and your family board the Journey to the North Pole™ train you will feel like one of the kids on the Polar Express. The train is decorated for the holidays with lights and swag. And we can’t forget about the food. During your journey, you will be served Santa’s exclusive treats made by magical chefs. 

While you and your family enjoy these goodies and the general jolly atmosphere complete with sing-a-longs, you can also catch a glimpse of the Conway Scenic Railroad. While snow isn’t guaranteed, the cold, elevated climate offers the best chance for snowy scenery that will look like something from a Christmas card.

The magic also extends upon arriving at the North Pole, where you and your family will be greeted by elves outside. Santa’s helpers will guide you to his workshop and along the way, your little ones will have the chance to leave their letters to Santa at the Post Office to make sure he’ll receive their wish list. But that’s not all, you and your family can also visit the elves at the print shop to see what gifts and goodies they’ve been working on!

Celebrate With a Classic Christmas Story

And while the experience on the Journey to the North Pole™ is magical from start to finish, one of the most memorable moments happens upon arrival to the village. There, you and your family can experience the classic “The Night Before Christmas” poem by Clement Clarke Moore being dramatically read. The telling of this quintessential Christmas poem puts everyone in the holiday spirit and sets the tone for the surprise to come - a visit from Santa himself!

Santa’s spirit and charm fill the room as he joins in with guests and elves with classic carols and sing-a-longs the entire family will enjoy. At the end of the experience, each child may receive a special gift so they are sure to always remember their time on the Polar Express in Jackson, NH.

New Hampshire Winter Resorts

Ticket and Pricing Details

The Journey to the North Pole™ hasfour ticket levels available in North Conway. All tickets include the full experience, while First Class, First Class Plus, and Upper Dome ticket holders have access to a roomier train car and a special gift for the children onboard the train.

The best part is that all net proceeds from the Journey to the North Pole™ fund Literacy Programs of the Believe in Books Literacy Foundation. So you can know that you and your family making lasting memories is also helping a non-profit organization.

Due to the popularity of the event, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets as soon as possible in order to reserve your spot on the Polar Express.

Places to Stay Jackson, NH

Want to extend your holiday stay in New Hampshire? Luckily, there is plenty to do in the surrounding Jackson area, as well as places to stay for the entire family.

The Journey to the North Pole™ runs on select dates from November through December. New England Inns & Resorts has properties conveniently located in Jackson, NH so you can spend an entire weekend soaking in the holiday festivities in the Granite State. While the Journey to the North Pole™ may take up one of your nights, we recommend exploring some of the area’s other attractions like Lake Winnipesaukee for views of the expansive lake in the winter or a trip to the outlets in North Conway for some of the best holiday shopping.

Book your stay today or head over to our blog for more seasonal inspiration for the entire family and accommodation deals you can take advantage of!

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