Experience the magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ train ride in Queenscliff this December.
Ready to whisk your little ones into a world of magic and wonder? Buckle up because this Christmas you can book a ticket to the most enchanting journey imaginable: the Polar Express aboard the iconic Bellarine Railway in Queenscliff. On from 30 November – 22 December 2024.
Polar Express Train Ride
Here’s what you can expect when you board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ train ride in Queenscliff.
Passengers receive a souvenir Golden Ticket and embark on an immersive journey with iconic characters from the book.
Highlights include the ‘Hot Chocolate’ dance, a visit from Santa, and carolling onboard.
Refreshments are served and passengers receive a special memento from Santa Claus.
The Bellarine Railway
The Bellarine Railway is steeped in heritage. From its polished brass, leather seats and wooden interiors, you’ll be lulled into yesteryear with each rhythmic chug of its engines.
The steam train has a range of different seating, from the first class private cabins to the ‘cattle-class’ benches.
As the train pulls out of Queenscliff station the scenery is stunning. The still blue waters of Port Phillip Bay glisten as far as the eye can see.
There is a brief 10 minute stop to stretch your legs and take pictures before the train returns via the same route. Altogether the round trip takes about 45 minutes.
Polar Express Tickets
Securing a ticket for this magical escapade is akin to nabbing a front-row concert seat!
The demand for this experience often rivals availability, so mark your calendars, set your alarms and book as soon as tickets are released.
For bookings from 30 November to 22 December 2024, tickets are available online here.
Note that family and friends should book all tickets under the same reservation name to ensure seats in the same carriage.
Polar Express Packing Guide
Embrace the Christmas spirit by arriving dressed in coordinating Christmas PJ’s or fun festive attire.
For Christmas in July, it’s perfect to cosy up in layers to brave the chill as the train chuggs through the landscape, but don’t forget the sunscreen as well.
The event has a mix of indoor and outdoor activities and goes ahead rain, hail, or shine. Be prepared for changes in the weather (predicted/on the day), as shelter may be limited.
You can take food and drinks on board so pack some snacks for the journey.
Onboard the Polar Express Queenscliff Train
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride experience is approximately 90 minutes. This includes a 45-minute train ride.
Upon stepping onto the platform, the Conductor will greet everyone and start THE POLAR EXPRESS™ journey.
Be transported to scenes from Chris Van Allsburg’s cherished children’s book.
The story of The Polar Express is narrated onboard the train, and the Train Stewards have a large picture book so that everyone can follow the story.
Interactive Activities
Prepare to be entertained! We are captivated by the immersive theatrical experience that brings iconic characters to life.
Carols echo through the carriages, there’s a lively ‘Hot Chocolate’ dance, a mysterious encounter with the Hobo, and even a magical visit from Santa. The interactive entertainment turns passengers into participants in this grand performance.
At the journey’s end, keep an eye out for the Elves, who will lead the way to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus.
Festive Treats
Midway through the journey, we are offered a chocolatey drink and locally-made cookie, served by THE POLAR EXPRESS™ ‘chefs’.
You can also BYO festive treats to get you in the mood for this enchanting journey.
Memorabilia and Souvenirs
At the end of the journey every passenger receives a special memento of the journey from Santa – a sleigh bell!
Back at Queenscliff station, you’ll also find Polar Express memorabilia so you can carry a piece of this enchantment home.
Tips for the Polar Express Train Ride
- We recommend planning to arrive at the event at least 30 minutes prior to the pre-booked showtime;
- You can take food and drinks on board the train so pack some snacks for the journey;
- On arrival you need to show the tickets (printed or shown on a mobile device) for scanning at the Ticket Exchange Marquee;
- The pre-show waiting area opens 30 minutes before each showtime;
- As there are train times throughout the day, if you arrive late after your train has departed, they will attempt to move you to a later train;
- Bookings cannot be moved to another show date;
- Free parking is available at the Queenscliff site (on a first come first served basis) and in nearby streets;
- Accessible parking is at the north end of Learmonth Street – corner of Symonds Street. At the bottom of Learmonth St, cross over Symonds to enter the station precinct;
- There are 3 accessible parking spaces on the right of the road, with a further 3 on the left-hand side of the road.
Toot toot! Day Out with Thomas, Bellarine Railway, Queenscliff
Top 34 Train Experiences in Melbourne for Kids
Puffing Billy, Belgrave: Melbourne’s Iconic Steam Train
This post contains paid inclusions and affiliate links. If you purchase using the links there is no extra cost to you and I earn a small commission that helps me to provide free, valuable and useful information for you! Thanks, Joyce
