Midwinter Magic on Rails: Cumberland’s 60‑Minute Polar Express™ Pajama Ride

CUMBERLAND TRAIN FIELD GUIDE

Midwinter Magic on Rails: Cumberland’s 60‑Minute Polar Express™ Pajama Ride

A one‑hour, family‑focused theatrical train ride out of Cumberland that recreates The Polar Express™ with hot chocolate, cookies, sing‑alongs and a commemorative silver sleigh bell.

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Midwinter Magic on Rails: Cumberland’s 60‑Minute Polar Express™ Pajama Ride.

Duration
1 hour
Location
Cumberland
Operator
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
Category
Train
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Inspired by the runaway hit film, the Polar Express – Coach Class is a staged, musical holiday ride that brings the story to life on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. Set to the movie soundtrack, the event pairs a short, immersive run toward the ‘North Pole’ with a reading of The Polar Express™, on‑train singing and dancing, and seasonal treats served before guests board.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE EXPERIENCE

A theatrical ride for every age

Passengers join a staged, soundtrack‑led trip complete with a reading of The Polar Express™, group sing‑alongs and dancing—an event crafted as a holiday performance on wheels.

THE DURATION

A kid‑sized, 60‑minute loop

The Coach Class offering runs approximately one hour and covers only a portion of the railroad’s line; there are no passenger disembarkations during the experience.

THE SOUVENIR

A silver sleigh bell for every passenger

Every rider departs with a special commemorative silver sleigh bell—part of the ride’s theatrical keepsakes and communal moments.

What the day feels like

What the ride feels like

The sequence is concise and ceremonial: refreshments are served prior to boarding, passengers climb aboard in pajamas if they wish, the train moves out under the film soundtrack, and crew and performers lead singing, dancing and a live reading before returning to the depot—all within a tight, hour‑long loop.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this ride suits

1
Families with childrenMarketed as an all‑ages holiday event, the Polar Express is explicitly framed for family groups and young children.
2
Mixed‑age holiday groupsThe production is designed to accommodate a broad age span—grandparents, parents and children can share the same staged experience.
3
First‑time Polar Express attendeesAs an officially themed ride, it delivers the story’s key moments in a compact format suitable for attendees of any age.
4
Holiday event plannersGroups seeking a short, family‑oriented seasonal outing will find the offering explicitly described as appropriate for all ages.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite pajamas; no special gear is required for this theatrical ride.

Food & Refreshments

Hot chocolate and a cookie are provided to all passengers, with refreshments served prior to boarding.

Souvenirs & Keepsakes

Each passenger receives a commemorative silver sleigh bell as part of the experience.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Polar Express – Coach Class ride?

The Coach Class experience is approximately one hour long.

Where do I board the train?

Boarding and the departure point are at the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.

Are refreshments provided?

All passengers are provided hot chocolate and a cookie, served prior to boarding.

Do passengers disembark during the trip?

No—passengers remain on board for the full journey and do not disembark at intermediate stops.

Will I get a souvenir?

Yes—every passenger receives a special commemorative silver sleigh bell.

Can I wear pajamas on the ride?

Yes—guests are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas to join in the holiday atmosphere.