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All About Port Jefferson's Polar Express 

My kids could not wait for our magical movie journey on the Port Jefferson Station Polar Express Experience in Suffolk County. The antique LIRR train car where the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce hosts the event dates back to the 1900s and is a Long Island landmark. The historic railroad car sits alongside the Chambers Memorial American Flag Park, and there is plenty of free parking available adjacent to the train car location. 

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The train ride features a screening of the Polar Express.

Kids should dress in their favorite holiday pajamas just like the characters in the movie to feel fully immersed in the atmosphere. As we arrived, the conductor greeted us and ushered us aboard the train to receive our golden tickets. We also received popcorn and water bottles. 

The train car is intimate and has a capacity of 30 people, so be sure to reserve tickets online. The inside of the train is decorated with garland, Christmas balls, and red bows to set the stage. The movie screen for the main event is at the front of the train car. 

Our train ride filled up quickly as families picked seats. The conductor greeted us, thanked everyone for the community support, and started the movie. My kids excitedly ate their popcorn and intently watched the movie. This experience is well suited for young kids as you can easily step outside for a few minutes if anyone is upset during the movie or needs a minute. There is also a good-sized restroom on the train car. 

Keep your golden tickets handy as the conductor and his helpers come around to punch each ticket. My kids loved their golden tickets. My 4-year-old son said it felt like he was on the Polar Express train. As the movie continued its journey to the North Pole, so did ours. Next, everyone received hot chocolates and chocolate chip cookies to enjoy. 

As Santa gave out the first gift of Christmas in the movie, we all received a gift as well. My kids were ecstatic to see Christmas bell necklaces given to everyone on the journey. The bells were a cute part of the experience and a nice souvenir to take home. All the kids on the train were clapping and cheering during exciting parts of the movie. Some of the tiniest kids even danced in the aisle at some moments. 

At the movie’s conclusion, the conductor asks if everyone believes and instructs the kids to ring their bells loudly. Santa boards the train car, and the children all erupt in delight. There is a holiday background and couch near the back of the train car for the kids to pose with Santa. The experience includes a picture with Santa that is texted to you after the adventure ends. 

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Santa gifts a present to each guest on the Polar Express Experience in Port Jefferson. 

The Polar Express Experience is a local holiday activity that helps support the community’s Chamber of Commerce and is much more affordable than larger, more elaborate Polar Express train rides. Everyone was friendly and helpful before, during, and after the movie. This event is a perfect holiday tradition to add to your family’s Christmas fun. 

Know Before You Go to the Polar Express Experience

• Admission for the Polar Express Experience costs $20 per person. All ages must have a ticket. Reserve your tickets in advance online.
• Check the Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce website for specific Polar Express Experience days and times that are available. 
• The admission price includes snacks and drinks. 
• A restroom is available on the chamber train car. 
• Private shows are available by request. 
• Parking is free right near the train car. 
• The train car experience is a short drive from the Village of Port Jefferson. The village has a big Christmas tree and decorations for the season if you have time to walk around or grab a meal before or after the movie. 

Photos by the author