The North Pole Express Train Ride In Maine That’s Straight Out Of A Hallmark Christmas Movie

Maine is so far north compared to other states that it might feel like we're at the North Pole. In fact, our state is part of the 45th Parallel which is halfway from the equator to the North Pole. You can even visit a little town near the Canadian border called Perry which fits within this global lateral line. They even have an enchanted Christmas walk you should check out. Even though we are not at the North Pole and there's only one location on the planet that can actually be called Santa's home, that doesn't mean it's out of reach.  All you need to do is have an imagination as well as some time to visit Boothbay for the North Pole Express Christmas train ride in Maine.

This holiday season, make things extra special and sparkly by visiting the Boothbay Railway Village Museum.

You can certainly visit any time of year, but just before Christmas, guests are invited to board the No. 551 “Little Red Caboose” when it reimagines itself as the North Pole Express!

Before boarding the classic passenger car built in 1904, you'll get inside the main train station at the museum, the historic 1912 Freeport Station.

Here, you'll have the chance to write a letter to Santa before boarding the train for your trip to the North Pole.

The conductor will let you know it's time to go by giving an enthusiastic "All Aboard" which is when you'll feel the excitement in the air get stronger.

The train makes its way to the North Pole (or, Thorndike Station for those who prefer reality), where Santa will greet you.

He'll take the time to speak with everyone who's interested to make sure nobody leaves without feeling a bit closer to the big guy.

Then, the train will whisk you back to where your trip began, so you can enjoy the museum grounds and take in the Christmas vibes found all over. Keep your fingers crossed for snow, too!

Trips depart on both Saturday and Sunday every 45 minutes at 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:15 p.m., and 4 p.m.

Taking guests to the North Pole can be quite a task, so they ask guests to arrive at least 15 minutes before their departure. Train rides will be leaving on time, so we suggest you go early to explore the grounds before your train ride. That way you will get the chance to explore the area, check out all of the festivities, and be ready for a magical ride to the North Pole.

Take a Christmas train ride with the Boothbay Railway Village North Pole Express in this video from Boothbay Railway Village:

The North Pole Express at Boothbay Railway Village leaves the station on weekends during the month of December. Tickets for the experience range from $17 to $21 and can be purchased online by visiting the North Pole Express event page. Children 3 and under do not require a ticket so, therefore, are free. You can also follow the Boothbay Railway Village on Facebook. You can reach the railway at 207-633-4727. So grab your tickets and "all aboard" for this magical Christmas train ride in Maine.

Make sure those spirits stay bright by walking or driving through 200,000 holiday lights at Winter Wonderland at Augusta West in Maine! Or, hop in the RV and take a magical Maine Christmas town road trip!