Frequently Asked Questions
When is it ? 2023 Dates & Schedule:
The North Pole Express runs
November 25-26, December 2-3, 9-10 & 16-17.
Saturday departures: 10.00 am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm
Sunday departures: 10.00 am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm
How do I purchase tickets to the North Pole Express?
Visit our North Pole Express Web page to book your tickets!
If you didn’t get a chance to ride with us last year, become a member and join our mailing list to get notifications and early bird access for all our events! To sign up or get more info, email us at northpoleexpress@wcra.org.
About North Pole Express Tickets:
Tickets are sold in pairs to ensure seat selection and reserved seating.
Best available seats will be assigned during booking.
You may CHANGE the assigned seats and select your own during Checkout (based on availability).
Tickets are available in three price categories.
How Much does it cost for a ticket?
- $82 Coach Class Seats – paired. Sold in pairs only. ($41 each +GST).
- $105 First Class Seats – paired. Sold in pairs only ($52.50 each +GST).
- $132 Special Night Time departure seats on Saturday nights. Sold in pairs only ($66 each +GST).
- $1750.00 Alberta Private Car for groups of 15.
- ALL tickets are RESERVED SEATING.
- FREE Parking included with your ticket.
- $5 Museum Preservation fee applies to Coach, 1st Class and Night Time ride tickets.
What do I get with a coach ticket?
Vintage Coach class Platinum Ticket ticket includes:
A fun filled train ride on the North Pole Express, with entertainment on board, chocolate chip cookie, candy cane, Christmas music and Carol Singing.
Access to the North Pole & a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Mini rail ride.
Lots of hands on activities in Santa’s Workshop.
Christmas merchandise in our gift shop.
Free Parking and Reserved Seating.
Note: Best selection of seats will be assigned during booking.
You may CHANGE the assigned seats and select your own during Checkout (based on availability).
Why is a First Class ticket more money?
First class receives all that coach receives plus:
- Assigned seating in First Class with tables at each seating quad.
- Proximity boarding – closest access to board and disembark the North Pole Express Station Platform
- Your choice of a special souvenir. (Approximate value $10.00)
How much is the special ride in the VIP coach ‘Alberta’?
The Cost is $1750.00 + GST per departure.
Please call 1-604-898-9336 x 2011 for all the details, or email northpoleexpress@wcra.org with subject line ‘Alberta Ride’.
The Alberta is a modern day business car that seats a group of 15 family members and/or friends and features pre-boarding before the rest of the train is announced. Complementary food and beverages will be served by your own host or hostess. When arriving at the North Pole, you will have the ability to disembark the train first for easy access to photo opportunity, ride the Mini Rail Train and see Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Do I need to buy a ticket for my infant child?
Infants less than 24 months may ride on a parents lap at no additional cost. However, you MUST check the ‘Infant’ box while booking. They will not get an assigned seat, but need to the accounted for in the passenger count.
Why are tickets sold only in pairs?
We have moved to a reserved seating system, which allows you to choose your seats before check-out, therefore allowing the option to sit close to your family/group. Unfortunately, this made it necessary to book in pairs so bring a friend or another family member to enjoy the fun-filled activities. Your seating is guaranteed and there are no unused single seats.
What is the refund and cancellation Policy?
All sales are final. Unfortunately we cannot offer refunds if you are unable to ride your train as scheduled. We apologize for any inconvenience caused. The Railway Museum of BC is a non-profit organization.
Do I need proof of Covid-19 Vaccinations to ride the North Pole Express?
Not at this time. We will follow all Provincial Health orders that apply on the day of your departure.
Where do I park my car?
Parking will be in the lot to your LEFT, across the street from the Museum grounds, just after your cross the railway tracks as you approach the Museum. Staff will be onsite to assist and direct you to park your vehicle.
Parking is FREE this year with a North Pole Express Ticket.
How far of a walk is it from the parking lot to the North Pole Express?
It is about 250 metres from the parking area to the front gate of the Railway Museum of BC. It is another 200 metres from the front gate to the (Mac Norris) Squamish Station house where you will pick up your tickets and Board the North Pole Express.
You may encounter snow and ice on the ground during your travels.
Please wear appropriate footwear for winter conditions.
What time should I arrive to catch my train?
Patrons should arrive no later than 45 minutes prior to departure time. Check-in closes 15 minutes prior to departure time! Trains depart on time.
Late arrivals may not be accommodated, or will be assigned ‘Standby’ status for the next train based on available seating at time of departure. Most departures will be fully SOLD OUT!
How much time should I plan for to enjoy the North Pole express?
We recommend between 2 – 3 hours for the entire experience, including the train ride and North Pole activities. Please arrive 45 mins before your train departs! The train ride is almost an hour, and then allow at least an hour at the North Pole to meet Santa, ride the Mini-Rail Train, and enjoy the activities and live entertainment.
How long is the train ride?
The train ride is about 50 minutes in duration. The train takes an ‘out and back’ route from the Museum station, travelling either North close to the Squamish River or South to the Shipping Port.
Can we bring our own food ?
YES. However, we will have concession food & snacks – including popcorn and hotdogs, and a variety of drinks available.
Can I visit the North Pole before my departure on the North Pole Express?
Sorry NO, as the train ride will bring you to the North Pole
Will the train be decorated on the inside?
YES! There will be decorations in the coaches together with plenty of laughter, music and magic.
Can I wear my PJ’s?
YES! Absolutely, we encourage it. PJs are welcomed and encouraged.
Are there washrooms onboard the North Pole Express?
Due to the vintage nature of our train coaches, we cannot guarantee washrooms will be available on board. Please make use of the washrooms provided at the station prior to departure.
Am I guaranteed a seat together with my family?
Book early and online. When booking you will have the opportunity to select your seats, or change assigned seats, subject to availability.
Can we see Santa and Mrs. Claus?
YES! Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the North Pole.
You are welcome to use your own cameras so that you can take pictures of these special memories to take home with you, with no extra charge or hassle.
Can I buy the First-Class mug or Souvenir if I ride in Coach?
Please check with the Gift Shop upon your arrival. Currently there are no additional First-Class mugs available for sale. There may be some closer to the actual event.