A Windy City holiday: Chicago’s 10 essential holiday activities
By Andi Ortiz
5. The Polar Express Train Ride
Chicago’s a big city, but getting around is pretty simple thanks to the trains. And during the winter, one Amtrak train in particular gets extra festive. There’s singing, dancing and sweets … that’s the way things happen on The Polar Express.
Good, now that the song’s in your head, it’ll be easier to imagine this experience.
Getting from Chicago to the North Pole is a bit of a process, so this ride takes passengers through the tunnels, rail yards, and neighborhoods along the Chicago River. Honestly, during the winter, the weather in Chicago is sometimes mistaken for the North Pole. Riders even get one of the iconic golden tickets, and get it punched.
No, Tom Hanks isn’t on this one, but the dancing chefs serving hot chocolate and cookies are there, backed up by the movie’s soundtrack. As an added nod to the story, the passengers also read along with the original children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg.
To make up for the lack of Hanks, Santa and his helpers do hop on the train to greet the kids and give everyone the first gift of Christmas — a silver sleigh bell. (If you can’t hear it, better start looking inward).
Basically, it’s an entire Christmas wrapped up into one one-hour train ride. And for once, all the passengers are happy to be there. It’s a perfect family activity in Chicago, and even for those who just really enjoy Christmas movies.