12/05/2018

Take a Ride on the Polar Express

Step inside a children’s holiday classic and mark this entrancing season in unforgettable style aboard the Polar Express Train Ride along the Chicago River! You’re but a short train or bus ride from the city’s iconic Union Station, where this one-of-a-kind, family-friendly experience begins.

Chicago’s Polar Express

Run by Amtrak, Chicago’s Polar Express—which opened November 30th and runs through New Year’s Day—gives riders the opportunity to experience the magical world of Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved children’s book, come to life on a festive train tracing the glittering Chicago riverfront.

Climbing into your coach car with your golden ticket, you’ll be treated to hot chocolate and cookies along with caroling, visits from Santa Claus, and a read-along of The Polar Express.

The train ride is about an hour long, but more than likely the warmth and joy it inspires will linger with you and the rest of your crew—and you’ll have a special sleigh bell as a keepsake of your Polar Express experience.

On December 20th, the Polar Express will be offering a Sensory Friendly Performance for individuals with sensory sensitivities; among the special features of this particular show are a pair of designated Quiet Cars (staffed with members of Chicago Children’s Theatre) if passengers need a break as well as scaled-back light and audio effects.

For more information on the Polar Express, check out the official FAQ right here; you can survey the schedule and nab your tickets, meanwhile, at this link.

Take a Ride on the Polar Express During a Holiday Stay at Hotel Chicago in River North

You’ve still got time to join your fellow passengers in some yuletide festivities and good cheer on Chicago’s Polar Express: Remember, it’s chugging and jingling along through January 1st. Choose Hotel Chicago for your Windy City accommodations this holiday season, and you’ll be just minutes from Union Station and its Christmastime magic.

Selecting our Autograph Collection hotel in River North for your Polar Express accommodations, you’ll have our trademark hospitality, amenities, and services to enjoy alongside the holiday train ride. The Hotel Chicago experience includes ready access to The Chicagoan, Wollensky’s Grill, and numerous other standout Windy City eateries for a standout lunch or dinner to accentuate your Polar Express fun.

Book your Hotel Chicago room(s) or suite(s) today so you’re all set for holiday memory-making on board Amtrak’s Polar Express!

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