The Monticello Railway Museum runs The Polar Express for the 2026 holiday season from Monticello, IL. The full 2026 calendar isn't published yet — the railroad updates it each summer. On-sale date: September 12, 2026. 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 on sale
September 12, 2026
Price range
TBA
Discounts
Monticello Railway Museum mentions TBA discounts on its 2026 Polar Express page. Bring valid ID to the station to redeem.
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 →Book on the operator
Tickets are sold directly by Monticello Railway Museum — this is the only link on this page that leaves usatrainrides.
Book on Monticello Railway Museum→Frequently asked
When does Monticello Railway Museum run The Polar Express in 2026?
How much do Polar Express tickets at Monticello Railway Museum cost?
When do tickets go on sale?
Are there any Polar Express discounts at Monticello Railway Museum?
Where does the train depart from?
More about Monticello Railway Museum
Year-round schedule, equipment, and visitor info live on the operator's full page.
See the full Monticello Railway Museumpage →