Big South Fork Scenic Railway

Photo by treewoman8, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

🎄 2026 holiday season

Big South Fork Scenic Railway Polar Express 2026

Stearns, KY

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway runs The Polar Express for the 2026 holiday season from Stearns, KY. The full 2026 calendar isn't published yet — the railroad updates it each summer. The most-requested weekend dates routinely sell out within days, so booking the moment seats open is the difference between getting your first-choice night and watching it scroll past.

2026 dates

TBA

🎟 Tickets typically go on sale in late summer — check back or visit the operator's site.

Tickets & Pricing

Tickets typically run Adults (13-59) $28, Children (3-12) $18, Seniors (60+) $25.

Group rates

Group pricing available in Coach class for parties of 40+

Ways to save

  • Prices and 40+ group rate sourced from operator's Etix listing (Etix blocked direct fetch)
Check current availability →

Pricing and discounts are published by Big South Fork Scenic Railwayand subject to change — confirm on the operator's site before booking.

Where to stay

Bookings through this map support usatrainrides at no extra cost.

Rent a car

Most Polar Express stations sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.

Compare rentals on Discover Cars →

Frequently asked

When does Big South Fork Scenic Railway run The Polar Express in 2026?
The 2026 season schedule isn't published yet. Big South Fork Scenic Railway typically updates its Polar Express calendar in late spring or summer for the November–December run.
How much do Polar Express tickets at Big South Fork Scenic Railway cost?
The 2026 prices aren't published yet for Big South Fork Scenic Railway. Most North American Polar Express operators land in the $35–$95 per-seat range depending on coach class.
When do tickets go on sale?
Big South Fork Scenic Railway hasn't announced an on-sale date for 2026. Most operators release tickets in spring for the November–December run; sign up for the railroad's email list to be notified.
Are there any Polar Express discounts at Big South Fork Scenic Railway?
Big South Fork Scenic Railway doesn't publish a Polar Express discount for 2026. Some operators offer quiet presale windows for past riders or season-pass holders — joining the email list is the most reliable way to catch one.
Where does the train depart from?
Trains depart from Big South Fork Scenic Railway in Stearns, KY. See the operator's full schedule and route detail on the linked railroad page.

Keep exploring

Year-round schedule, equipment, and visitor info live on the operator's full page.