A ride on the Polar Express train ride in Bryson City, NC has been on our holiday bucket list for years. We're a little embarrassed to admit that we've never actually ridden this holiday train until this year (2024).  

We either waited too late to get tickets, or always had other things going on. But this year was different. We ordered our tickets early and booked a first-class train ride on the Polar Express for the 8:20pm ride.  Our ride for 2024 was on 11/13/2024.

We had an amazing time, and we're kicking ourselves for not riding it sooner!

Video of our Polar Express Train Ride

Purchasing Tickets

Your first step to taking a ride on the Polar Express is booking your tickets, which should be done as early as possible. Tickets sell out quickly, especially for dates and times closer to Christmas.   

For 2025, the event begins on November 6 and runs through December 31, 2025.

Tickets are booked online at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad website, and will be sent in an eTicket format to your mobile device and email.

Seating Class Options

You'll first want to pick a date and time that works for you. Then you'll need to choose the class of service you prefer. Classes offered include:

• First Class - Plush and comfortable furniture, large picture windows, and climate control for comfort. All guests receive hot cocoa in a souvenir ceramic mug, a cookie, surprise treat, and a souvenir tote. The first class cars are just gorgeous and really deliver a luxury experience. There are 4-seat and 2-seat options.
• Premium Crown Class - Windows that can open for fresh-air, ceiling fans, and heat for cooler evenings. These classic cars are very similar to the types of cars seen in the Polar Express movie. They have restored wooden in interiors, bench seats and tables. All guests will receive cocoa in a souvenir tumbler, a cookie, and a surprise treat.
• Crown Class - plush seating, large picture windows, and climate control for comfort. All guests will receive cocoa in a souvenir tumbler and a cookie 
• Coach Class - windows that can open for fresh air, ceiling fans, and heat for cooler evenings. All guests will receive cocoa and a cookie.

For all classes, Santa Claus will present each child with the first gift of Christmas; a silver bell from his sleigh. 

Steam or Diesel Locomotive

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad also has both steam and diesel engines. The steam locomotive only runs during the day and has more limited options on dates and times.   

We wanted to go at night so we could better see the lights, so we chose a diesel locomotive.

Tips for purchasing tickets:

• Again, get your tickets early. The event sells out very quickly each year.
• For the best views of the North Pole, sit on the left side of the train (farthest side from the station). But there are lights on both sides, and you can see from the right side as well.
• Purchase the parking pass option. It will allow you to park in the GSMRR all-day parking lot across from the station. Bryson City street parking is limited to 2-hours.

What to Wear?

All passengers, regardless of age, are encouraged to wear pajamas!

We did, and it made the experience more fun and enjoyable. It was fun to see everyone in their own unique and often matching PJs.

We do recommend either wearing layers or bringing a coat, though. It was in the 40s during our trip. Even the waiting area was pretty cool.   

The train cars are heated, but we didn't feel any heat during our trip. It was a bit chilly in the cars, so an extra jacket was nice to have.

What to Expect

We had watched a few videos and read some guides about the Polar Express train ride, but didn't know exactly what to expect. Here's the rundown without giving too much away:

• Fun staff and actors - The actors, from the conductors to the Hobo did a wonderful job engaging guests and making the whole train ride fun. They were also able to really make you feel like you were experiencing the whole Polar Express book and movie.
• Treats - Everyone gets hot chocolate and a chocolate chip cookie.  
• Music - You'll experience music and sounds from the Polar Express movie. We challenge you to not smile when the Hot Chocolate song comes on.
• A Visit from Santa - Santa boards the train and gives everyone a special gift
• Fun for all ages - While the ride is geared for children, adults have fun as well. We had no kids in our section for the ride, but still had a great time and some good laughs. The ride is full of serious moments, fun times, and, of course, some silliness along the way.
• The experience of a train ride - Not only do you experience the book and movie, but you get to ride on a real train! The whistle, the clacking of the cars as the train goes down the tracks all combine to make this a wonderful, fun, and historic experience.

Arrival and Boarding

We arrived about an hour before our train's departure time, mainly so we could record some extra video and explore a bit before the train ride. The POLAR EXPRESS begins boarding 30 minutes before the departure time.

We enjoyed walking the streets of Bryson City, NC, and see all the holiday lights. There is also a village area around the train station with shops and live music. Be sure to visit Uncle Bunky's Christmas Cottage, which is full of fun Christmas items.

We ate a home prior to arriving in Bryson City, since we're only 40 minutes away. There are a number of good restaurant options in Bryson City, and the train station itself serves some pretty good looking food as well.

About 30 minutes before your departure time, the POLAR EXPRESS will return from its prior run. The locomotive stops right in front of the station. There are signs all around that show what section you need to be at for boarding. Your seats and car are noted on your ticket.

The order is by seating class. First class is right behind the locomotive, following by crown class through to coach, which is on the end.

If you are in coach, it's a bit of a walk down to the end, so keep that in mind when boarding. The GSMRR also provides golf carts to assist passengers if needed. They additionally have devices for lifting those in wheelchairs onto the train cars.

Tickets are checked as you board, and it's the only time you will need them.

There is plenty of time to get lots of photos of the train in front of the station prior to boarding. The whole train is decorated in lights, and the locomotive as "Polar Express" on the side, making for some beautiful photo opportunities.

After taking some photos, we headed to our boarding location, and began our magical adventure on the Polar Express!

Riding the Polar Express

The train leaves promptly at the departure time, and heads in the direction of Dillsboro from Bryson City. You'll travel at a pretty slow pace from Bryson City to Whittier, NC, where the "North Pole" is located. The ride out takes about 40-45 minutes.

We chose to sit in first class to get the full experience, and to allow a little more room for our camera gear. Two young ladies were assigned to our section of the car, and they help us find our seats, which where two very comfortable chairs at a table next to a large window.

On our table was a souvenir bag, chocolate bar, and our large golden Polar Express tickets. The first-class car we were in was very roomy and just plain gorgeous, with a gold colored roof, large windows and plush seating.

Bryson City NC Travel GuideA photographer was walking around taking photos of passengers. You can purchase these later. Ours turned out pretty well. The full package for all the versions and digital copies was around $40.

After long whistle, the train began to move, and the show began as the two staff members came out introduced themselves and met everyone.   

Shortly after, we were asking if "We were in need of refreshment", to which we shouted "YES!" and the music and dancing began "Hot hot hot ... we got it ...". Well, you know the song, and our hot chocolate arrived on our tables, complete with thick whip cream topping.

During the ride, you'll experience many of the events from the book, including the train stopping due to caribou blocking the way. You'll have to chant loudly to help clear the way.  

You'll also get a visit from the mysterious hobo, who confirms everyone can see him before interacting.

The staff did a great job keeping everyone engaged, singing, and dancing during the ride. The skits are fun and humorous for all ages.

We even had a contest to see who could do the best "Ho ho ho" and the winner received a special cookie!

Just prior to reaching the North Pole, a recording of the author of Polar Express reads a portion of the story to you, as the staff holds a large picture version of the book.

The North Pole

The North Pole set is located on the left side of the train and features buildings with lights, a large Christmas tree, and of course, Santa and the Elves.

The train stops, and Santa boards the train to visit with everyone and gives everyone a gift, a silver bell.

Returning to Bryson City

After Santa boards, the train heads back to Bryson City. On the way back, you'll sing Christmas Carols and get a last visit from the Hobo.

The songs and laughter were a great way to wrap up our Polar Express train ride experience and a great way to kick off the Christmas and Holiday season!

Tips:

Here are a few tips we learned during our visit that we think you'll find helpful:

• The Smoky Mountain Train Museum is included with your tickets - Be sure to visit before or after your ride. The museum has model trains and exhibits to explore. Kids can even press buttons to control the trains.
• The Polar Express trains run regardless of weather
• You can change your tickets at least 48 hours in advance for a fee and if other times/dates are available.
• Arrive an hour before your departure time. The train leaves promptly at the departure time and begins boarding 30 minutes before.
• For passengers requiring help or with accessibility needs, call early to let them know, and make them aware on your arrival.    
• Dress in layers and bring a jacket. This is a winter event, and it can be very cold and even snow!

Where to stay and eat in Bryson City

If you are planning to stay or eat in Bryson City, check out our Bryson City, NC town guide for details on where to stay, where to eat, and other things to see and do in the area.

Where is Bryson City NC?

Bryson City is located off the Great Smoky Mountains Express way, which travels from I-40, by Waynesville NC, Cherokee NC, and down to Lake Fontana.  Bryson City is about 20 minutes south of Cherokee.

Bryson City is also located just along the border of the southern most portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and specifically Deep Creek, which is popular for tubing, fishing, and hiking due to the 3 beautiful waterfalls located there.

History of Bryson City NC

Located in the lands that where historically Cherokee, Bryson City is the county seat for Swain County.  The Cherokee fished and hunted these lands around the Tuckasegee River for more than 14,000 years.  After the Revolutionary War, the land became reservation land and under the ownership of "Big Bear", a Cherokee Chief.  He sold the land to non-Cherokee and the initial town became known as Charleston.

In 1884, the The Western North Carolina Railroad laid tracks through Charleston NC, improving transportation to the town significantly, and resulting in significant growth.   In 1889, Charleston became Bryson City to set it apart from Charleston SC and to honor the founders of the town itself.

Things to do in Bryson City NC

Bryson City offers many different things to do and see, both in the town itself, but also in the surrounding areas.   In fact, there are so many things to do and see, that you may find it hard just to find enough time to enjoy everything Bryson City has to offer when you visit.  

Here are just a few of the amazing things to do in and around Bryson City NC

1 - Tour, Shop and Eat in Downtown

Downtown Bryson City is a historic small town, full of old buildings that line the main streets, and the beautiful Tuckasegee river that flows right through the middle.  Downtown is full of activity, and wonderful locally owned shops and restaurants.  Bryson City is also food truck friendly, so be sure to check those out as well.  Who can resist fried deviled eggs and other unique food truck options!

The bridge over the Tuckasegee River, through downtown, provides beautiful views of the river.  While enjoying the views, you'll be surrounded by the beautiful greens and blues of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains.

Maps for self guided tours of downtown Bryson City are available at the visitor's center.

2 - Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

The main attraction, and it's difficult to miss and not hear is the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR).  The GSMR offers a number of different rides, and they provide both Diesel and Steam engine service.  They even provide a number of different car options as well, from First-class (adult oriented) to coach and open cars which are intended more for families.

All of these options will determine your available times and destination.   The GSMR also has a number of special excursions, including food specials, beer and wine specials, and holiday specials.  The most well known and popular special excursion being the Polar Express at Christmas.

Some tips when riding the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad:

• Book your tickets in advance for the best options.   You can book them online.
• The GSMR provides a number of different ride options, with various layovers and ride times.  Pay attention to these, as the longer destinations are very long ride times.
• When riding, you'll mainly be sitting and watching scenery.   For younger children, this may not be ideal.  For longer rides, you may want to bring some things to do for your children.
• There is a snack car, but it provides food similar to a sporting event.  Food is not included with your ticket price.
• There are bathrooms onboard.

3 - Visit the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum

Located right by the depot for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, is the Smoky Mountains Train Museum.   The museum is owned by the GSMR, and your train ticket provides free admission.  Without a ticket, there is a fee.  

The museum is a fun way to kill some time while waiting for the "All Aboard" call for your train ride.

The museum houses a collection of 7,000 Lionel (O-scale) engines, cars and accessories, all running on a large and impressive layout.  There are children’s activities and a gift/toy shop as well.

4 - Tubing at Deep Creek, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the most popular activities in the area, and one that we loved doing with our kids when they were younger, is tubing in Deep Creek.  Deep Creek is an area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, focused around the creek named Deep Creek. 

The area provides camping, picnic areas, hiking trails, three waterfalls, and free and natural tubing along the beautiful and crystal clear waters of Deep Creek.

You can rent tubes from a number of places coming into Deep Creek, then you'll park either at the Deep Creek trailhead or in the picnic area.  You'll need to hike up to the bridge to put your tube in for the easy section of the creek. If you want more challenging rapids, you'll need to hike up a bit further.

5 - Hike to See 3 Waterfalls at Deep Creek

In addition to tubing, the Deep Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers access to some very nice hiking trails, including the Deep Creek waterfall loop, which will take you to three beautiful waterfalls, all within a short distance of each other.  This hike can be adjusted to different lengths as needed.

The trails will take you along side Deep Creek itself, which is crystal clear and beautiful, and one of the more beautiful areas of the park, especially in the Fall.

6 - Visit Fontana Lake and Dam

Located south of Bryson City is Fontana Lake and Dam.  The Lake is beautiful and perfect for boating and relaxing in a kayak.   The water has a somewhat mysterious green tint that makes it very unique looking.    

What made Fontana Lake is the engineering marvel and operational, Fontana Dam.  Fontana Dam is the tallest Dam east of the Rocky Mountains, at 480 feet tall.  About the height of a 50 story sky scrapper!

The Dam is part of the Appalachian trail AND visitors can drive across the dam, on the road above it.  There is a visitor center and gift shop, and touring and viewing the dam is an amazing and educational activity.

7 - Visit the Road to Nowhere

Located just outside of downtown Bryson City, is Lakeview drive, which will take you 6-miles out into the Great Smoky Mountains National park to end at a tunnel.  Yes, the road ends at a tunnel.  Hence the name, the Road to Nowhere.

During the formation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Fontana Lake, many people were forced to give up their land and homes, and Highway 288 that led to them is now under the waters of Fontana Lake.  The Federal Government promised to build a new road, Lakeview Drive.  But it was never finished, due to environmental and political issues.

Today, visitors to Bryson City can drive along the beautiful road, and walk through the tunnel at the end, where construction just stopped.  The drive and visit the tunnel makes for a unique, interesting, and educational experience for everyone.  The drive is especially beautiful during the Fall.

8 - Visit Darnell Farms

Darnell Farms is a family-friendly farm, located on 100 acres, just outside of Bryson City.  The farm hosts lots of special events, including:

• Strawberry Jam
• Summer Splash
• Sweet Corn Festival
• Watermelon Bash
• Peach Jam
• Fall Festival
• and more!

All of these events are focused on the harvest at the time, and feature live music, vendors, food and fun!  

The farm also provides educational field trips, tours, and a very large fruit stand where you can purchase fruits, vegetables and more, all grown on the farm. They also sell many different artisan goods as well (the bread is amazing).  Oh, and you can't skip the Dream Whips!

9 - Raft at the nearby Nantahala Outdoor Center

About 20 minutes south of Bryson City, is one of the most amazing outdoor centers on the East Coast, and most certainly in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Nantahala Outdoor Center, or more commonly called the NOC.

NOC is located along the absolutely gorgeous Nantahala River, and offers activities such as:

• Whitewater rafting
• Ziplining
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• Tubing

The offer a number of packages that combine various activities as well.  They also offering dining and lodging accommodations as well.  If you love the outdoors, this is definitely a place you'll want to check out!

10 - Nantahala Village Riding Stables

A fun, and exciting way to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains in and around Bryson City NC is on horseback.  

Located 9 miles west of Bryson City, is Nantahala Village Riding Stables.  They offer family friendly and fun, guide horseback rides.   Don't worry, if you've never ridden before or have limited experience, they'll teach you the basics before you hit the trails.  

Trails are all located in the Nantahala National Forest, a wooded forest overlooking the Fontana Lake.  They offer numerous options for guided rides.  Options vary by time and location, and they even over overnight rides.

Where to Stay in Bryson City NC

Bryson City offers a number of options for choosing where to stay when visiting.   Bryson City offers:

• Bed & Breakfasts
• Cabin Rentals
• Hotels and Motels
• and Camping

Regardless of your needs or preferences, you're sure to find the perfect place to call home for your Bryson City NC adventure.  Here are just a few great options to consider!

Hotels/Motels and Inns in Bryson City NC

Best Restaurants in Bryson City NC

For such a small mountain town, Bryson City really delivers on great places to eat.  We've been to Bryson City many times over the years, and here are our top picks for best restaurants in Bryson City NC: