Squamish's North Pole Express Christmas Train Attraction
The North Pole Express is a family-friendly, movie-like Christmas train experience at the Railway Museum of BC. It takes place in Squamish on weekends in December.
Inspired by the classic story The Polar Express, this immersive event invites families and their children to step inside a festive world filled with trains, twinkling lights, music and winter holiday fun. The magical adventure combines a real train ride with live entertainment, seasonal treats, and interactive activities that bring a beloved Christmas story to life.
In 2025 the North Pole Express takes place on the Saturdays and Sundays of November 29 and 30 as well as on December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21. It’s arguably one of the most unique and magical holiday attractions in the Lower Mainland.
Visit the Railway Museum of BC‘s official website for full details about the North Pole Express or continue reading to learn more.
Where the Experience Takes Place
The attraction runs at the Railway Museum of BC in Squamish which is located along the scenic Sea-to-Sky corridor between Vancouver and Whistler. The museum’s address is 39645 Government Road.
The Railway Museum of BC itself is a popular destination for train lovers and railway history fans. It features restored locomotives, miniature railways, and interactive exhibits. The museum is open on weekends in the summer as well as seasonally for special events, like the North Pole Express.
A Christmas Train Ride Like No Other
A number of other Lower Mainland Christmas attractions have miniature train rides. The North Pole Express also has one of those. It’s the only winter holiday attraction, however, where you can actually ride on a real train!
At the Railway Museum of BC in late winter, there are two main parts to the adventure. They can be experienced in either order.
With the train ride, visitors begin their journey by entering the decorated station. The station includes holiday music, friendly greeters and costumed characters. When ready, everyone is invited to get on the train and find their seats.
Once onboard a full-sized heritage train, guests settle in for a cozy ride filled with storytelling, a cheerful conductor, carol singing, and classic holiday moments.
During the journey, passengers are treated to festive snacks and warm drinks while music from The Polar Express movie plays throughout the train cars. The experience isn’t just about the mode of transportation. It’s storytelling, imagination, and holiday nostalgia rolled into one unforgettable ride.
The North Pole Indoor Adventure
Either before or after the train returns, the experience continues indoors. The “North Pole” village in the Roundhouse features miniature train displays, hands-on crafts, themed activity stations, and chances to meet Santa and other holiday characters.
At the North Pole children can decorate cookies, explore interactive exhibits, and even take a short ride on a smaller train within the museum. The village is like stepping into a Christmas storybook. It’s lovely to wander around and take photos.
Why Families Love This Experience
The Squamish North Pole Express stands out for a variety of reasons. It combines a real working train, theatrical storytelling, and holiday-themed activities all in one setting. It’s especially popular with young children, train enthusiasts, and anyone who loves classic Christmas traditions.
Most of the experience takes place indoors, making it a reliable winter activity even on rainy or snowy days.
Tips & Other Things to Know
Even if there isn’t snow on the ground, your vehicle must have winter tires when driving up the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Squamish.
The area is stunning. While you’re there, be sure to explore other attractions too. A couple of examples include the Britannia Mine Museum and Sea to Sky Gondola.
Other Information
For more information about the attraction, visit the official Railway Museum of BC‘s website.
Other websites and articles you might find of interest include the following:
- VancouversBestPlaces.com
- Christmas at Greendale Acres
- Glow Langley
- WhatToDoInWhistler.ca
- VancouverForKids.ca