
Catskill Mountain Railroad Kingston
Experience enchanting themed train rides, from the magical Polar Express to scenic fall foliage tours, in Kingston, NY.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Holiday magic and Polar Express!

Catskill Mountain Railroad Kingston
Best Time
Holiday magic and Polar Express!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience enchanting themed train rides, from the magical Polar Express to scenic fall foliage tours, in Kingston, NY.
"The most MAGICAL train ride. Worth every cent. Go book your train ride before it sells out!!"

Book Polar Express Early! :ticket:
These popular holiday rides sell out months in advance. Don't miss out!
Check Themed Ride Schedules :calendar:
From Polar Express to Pumpkin Express, know what's running when you visit.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Polar Express Experience
Kingston, NY
Step into a winter wonderland with hot chocolate, carols, and a visit from Santa. Pure holiday magic!

Scenic Fall Foliage Rides
Ulster County, NY
Enjoy breathtaking autumn colors on a scenic journey through the Catskills.

Pumpkin Patch Express
Kingston, NY
A festive October ride to a pumpkin patch, perfect for families.

Dinosaur Express Adventure
Kingston, NY
A roaring good time for kids with a prehistoric twist!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets Early!
Seasonal Themes & Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Polar Express Early! :ticket:
These popular holiday rides sell out months in advance. Don't miss out!
Check Themed Ride Schedules :calendar:
From Polar Express to Pumpkin Express, know what's running when you visit.
Dress for the Season :coat:
Evenings can be chilly on the train, especially during fall and winter rides.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking is generally easy, but arriving a bit early ensures a relaxed start.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Polar Express Early! :ticket:
These popular holiday rides sell out months in advance. Don't miss out!
Check Themed Ride Schedules :calendar:
From Polar Express to Pumpkin Express, know what's running when you visit.
Dress for the Season :coat:
Evenings can be chilly on the train, especially during fall and winter rides.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking is generally easy, but arriving a bit early ensures a relaxed start.
Engage with the Crew :smiley:
The staff's energy enhances the experience, especially on themed rides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical experience on themed rides like the Polar Express, praising the energetic staff and festive atmosphere. While scenic rides offer pleasant views, some find the foliage less vibrant than expected and the route somewhat limited. Overall, it's a highly recommended destination for holiday magic and family fun.
"I had the most magical experience on the Polar Express Train Ride with the Catskill Mountain Railroad. From the moment we boarded, it truly felt like stepping into the beloved Christmas story. The staff brought the holiday spirit to life with their energy and warmth.
We enjoyed delicious hot chocolate and cookies while singing along to classic Christmas songs, and it made the whole ride feel cozy and joyful. The absolute highlight was getting to meet Santa himself! He was so kind and patient, making sure every child and adult felt special.
The entire experience was beautifully done — festive decorations, cheerful staff, and a heartwarming atmosphere from start to finish. If you’re looking for a holiday activity that brings the magic of Christmas to life, this is definitely the one. I can’t wait to go again next year! 🎅🎄✨"
Stephanie McKenzie
"We had a magical experience on the Polar Express! Fantastic energy from the staff, great Christmas vibe, and super child friendly program. We'll be remembering this for a while!"
Dorie McKernan
"Ok, this is a fun train out of Kingston. The folks running it were kind and helpful, the views were nice and the whole vibe was extremely friendly. Parking was easy, family friendly, lots of things around. Say hi to Vinny Nigro who was the announcer and events guy on our train.... funny, a great guy and an epic story teller if you get him going.... Vinny alone made the trip a blast but there is so much more!"
Ken Woods
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Catskill Mountain Railroad is located in Kingston, NY. Parking is generally easy and available at the station. Many visitors find it convenient to drive directly to the location.
Public transportation options to Kingston, NY, may vary. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information if you are not driving.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the Catskill Mountain Railroad in Kingston, NY. The area is accessible via major roadways.
Kingston, NY, offers various attractions, including historic sites and dining options, making it a pleasant destination for a day trip.
Parking is typically straightforward and ample at the Kingston station, contributing to a stress-free arrival for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are best purchased directly through the official Catskill Mountain Railroad website to ensure availability and avoid third-party markups. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular themed rides like the Polar Express.
Ticket prices vary depending on the specific themed ride and seating options. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing information for each event.
For the Polar Express, it's crucial to book tickets as early as possible, often months in advance, as these popular holiday excursions sell out quickly.
Discounts may be offered for group bookings or specific events. Check the railroad's website or contact them directly for any available promotions or special offers.
Policies can vary by event. It's important to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the railroad directly for information on refunds or rescheduling options.
🎫 🚂 Onboard Experience
The Polar Express ride is a magical experience featuring hot chocolate, cookies, Christmas carols, festive decorations, and a visit from Santa Claus, bringing the beloved story to life.
The fall foliage ride offers scenic views of the changing leaves in Ulster County. While enjoyable, some visitors note that views can be limited by trees and populated areas.
Yes, themed rides like the Polar Express, Pumpkin Express, and Dinosaur Express are designed to be highly child-friendly and engaging for young passengers.
The duration of the train rides can vary depending on the specific excursion. It's best to check the schedule for approximate ride times when booking your tickets.
While themed rides often include refreshments like hot chocolate and cookies, it's advisable to check the specific policy for other excursions. Outside food and beverages may have restrictions.
📸 📸 Photography
The decorated trains, especially during the Polar Express season, offer fantastic photo opportunities. The scenic landscapes during fall foliage rides also provide picturesque backdrops.
Yes, photography is generally permitted on the train. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other passengers and avoid flash photography that might disturb them or the performers.
For themed rides like the Polar Express, the festive lighting and decorations are often best captured in the late afternoon or early evening. For scenic rides, daytime offers the best natural light.
While capturing the atmosphere is encouraged, it's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of staff or performers, especially if they are actively engaged in a show.
Operating drones may be subject to regulations and require specific permissions. It's best to check with the railroad and local authorities regarding drone usage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Couples & Friends Seeking Festive Fun
Day-Trippers from NYC Area
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Themed Rides
Beyond the winter holidays, the railroad offers other engaging themes. The Pumpkin Express in October provides a fun outing to a pumpkin patch, perfect for families looking for seasonal activities. For younger adventurers, the Dinosaur Express offers a prehistoric journey that sparks imagination. These themed rides are a testament to the railroad's commitment to creating memorable experiences for all ages, leveraging creative storytelling and enthusiastic staff to bring each theme to life.
Scenic Journeys Through the Catskills
However, it's worth noting that the scenic experience can vary. Some reviewers mention that the views are primarily through the woods and can include more populated areas, which might not align with expectations of remote wilderness. The train typically travels out and back on the same route, meaning the scenery is viewed from both directions. Despite these nuances, the train ride provides a unique perspective of the Catskills, offering a comfortable way to enjoy the outdoors without strenuous activity.
Community and Staff Engagement
This positive interaction with the staff contributes to a welcoming and family-friendly environment. Whether it's the cheerful greetings, the interactive performances, or the helpfulness of the crew, the human element at the Catskill Mountain Railroad is a key factor in creating memorable visits. This community-driven spirit is a significant draw for many visitors looking for more than just a scenic ride.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit