CUMBERLAND TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
Pajamas, Silver Bells, and Steam: Table-Class on The Polar Express in Cumberland
A one-hour, family-focused holiday train from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad that recreates The Polar Express™ with hot chocolate, cookies, music and a reading—this guide explains what to expect.
Pajamas, Silver Bells, and Steam: Table-Class on The Polar Express in Cumberland.
The Polar Express Train Ride™ in Cumberland brings the movie’s holiday pageantry aboard a vintage train: hot chocolate and cookies precede boarding, passengers sing and dance to the soundtrack, and a reading of the story turns the car into a small, moving theater. Riders are encouraged to wear pajamas, and Table Class seating is arranged in intimate groups to keep the experience cozy and communal.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A kid-sized, one-hour journey
The Polar Express Table Class is a compact, 60-minute experience that covers only a portion of the railroad’s line; passengers remain on board for the entire trip.
Hot chocolate, cookies and a commemorative bell
All passengers are provided hot chocolate and a cookie, and every rider receives a special commemorative silver sleigh bell—small, tangible touches that anchor the storytime and sing-along aboard.
Table Class: intimate tables of two or four
Table Class places guests at tables set for two or four, encouraging family groups to gather together; the operator encourages pajama attire to heighten the holiday atmosphere.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Set to the film soundtrack, the ride is a compact, theatrical cruise: cookies and hot chocolate before boarding, then singing, dancing and a reading that plays out while the train moves along a short stretch of track. The ambience is deliberate and family-focused—part performance, part celebration—culminating in the small ritual of a silver sleigh bell for each passenger.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this is right for—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator encourages wearing pajamas to participate in the festive atmosphere.
Hot chocolate, cookies and a commemorative silver sleigh bell are provided to every passenger as part of the experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Polar Express Table Class experience?
The experience is approximately one hour long.
Where do I meet for boarding?
Meet at the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad facility for boarding.
Are refreshments provided?
Yes—hot chocolate and a cookie are provided to all passengers.
Do passengers get to disembark at the North Pole?
No; passengers remain on board for the entire journey and do not disembark during the outing.
Will I receive a commemorative item?
All passengers receive a special commemorative silver sleigh bell as part of the experience.
How are seats configured for Table Class?
Table Class seats are arranged in tables of two or four.
Does the experience tend to sell out?
The Polar Express Table Class sells out quickly, so booking early is advised.