North Pole Express in Parrish Florida

Published on 12/21/21: North Pole Express (1 of 2). You may recall our video/post about the ‘Train Robbery Experience’ back in January. Well, the same Florida Railroad Museum also offers a ‘North Pole Express’ experience. We can now confirm first-hand, it’s great! Note this is in Parrish, about 45 minutes away from St. Pete, thus filed under #DayTrips.

Non-Profit and Volunteers – Sharing Their Love of Railroads

First, a big thanks to the group in charge of the North Pole Express, the Florida Railroad Museum. This is a non-profit, working hard to spread their love of 🚂 to all ages. Quick fact: their train operates on 6 miles of rail line built in the early 1900’s!

Onto the North Pole Express! These pics plus my 4-minute video in another post should give you an idea of what to expect. From Will Call ticket pickup to arrival back at your car. I could have simply documented the ‘North Pole’ destination; however, it was obvious that Colt (and the other kids) were also fired up for the train ride itself.

Model Train Sets and Gift Shop

After picking up your tickets, make sure to stroll through the model train sets (operational) and gift shop, all located inside rail cars. From there you’ll make your way to the boarding ‘gates’ along the track. While the train might normally be parked at this point, in our case the kids spotted the locomotive ¼ mile away, chugging along with its bright light cutting through the dark. From here, a fun chaos safely ensued. Adding to the excitement was the train bellowing Jingle Bells in the distance.

Once aboard, you’ll find decorations, lights and singers who roam around singing carols. We booked an enclosed cabin, though visited an open-air car for 1/2 the ride and enjoyed it as well, given the ideal weather. If you book First Class, you’re offered a free non-alcoholic drink & snack. Otherwise, you can purchase non-alcoholic drinks & snacks. Restrooms are available aboard. More to come about the ‘North Pole’ destination in the next post.

North Pole Express Pricing at Time of Posting

Coach $21 (ages 1-11) and $26 (ages 12+). First class is $44/$51. Can also for instance rent the ‘Party Caboose’ for $589, for up to 16 people!

Google Reviews: 422 with a 4.4/5 Average

Address: 12210 83rd St E, Parrish, FL

Phone: 800-373-4811

Website: www.FRRM.org

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