Take a Magical Ride on Iowa’s Version of the Polar Express
There are all sorts of great holiday events you can take part in here in Iowa this month, but there's only one that will take you all the way to the "North Pole!"
Every year, the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad offers Iowa families the chance to take a ride on the Santa Express. What's the Santa Express, you ask? Well, the official website reads:
"Bring the family, and enjoy a ride from the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad’s depot to the North Pole (and return). En route, you will hear the story of Santa’s Scenic Valley Ride, and take part in other fun, family activities. Experience what has become a tradition for families from across Iowa, and beyond."
According to the site, all activities take place on the train, and the ride usually takes around an hour and 15 minutes. Although the Santa Express is similar to the iconic "Polar Express," that is not the book that's read during the ride. They actually have their own book called “Santa’s Scenic Valley Ride” that they read, and you have the option to purchase a copy when you buy your tickets.
Tickets for this year's Santa Express went on sale back on November 1st, so, unfortunately, this year's events are nearly sold out. Tickets typically sell very quickly, so you can keep an eye out for news about when 2022 tickets will go on sale by following the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum Facebook page HERE. It's only a two-hour drive from Cedar Rapids, so it might be worth a road trip next winter!
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