All aboard for a memory-making holiday train excursion

Children’s book author Chris Van Allsburg said “The Polar Express,” his classic holiday story, “began with the idea of a train standing alone in the woods. I asked myself, ‘What if a boy gets on that train? Where does he go?’ ”

In the story, the boy boards the train and finds himself en route to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. But did it really happen, or was it a dream?

There’s always something mystical and magical about the holiday season. And there’s certainly something exotic about train travel in the heyday of the automobile and airplane.

Combine the two and you have the opportunity to make some lifelong memories. So, who’s on board for an old-fashioned holiday train trip?

These special holiday train and trolley excursions are within day-trip distance of Westmoreland County. It’s recommended that you buy your tickets as soon as possible, because the dates tend to sell out early.

• Santa Express, Everett Railroad, Hollidaysburg — The steam-powered train chugs through the winter landscape on its way to a rendezvous with Santa. All children receive a small gift; hot chocolate and cookies are available at the depot.

Trips are scheduled Saturdays- Sundays through Dec. 22 and on Dec. 20. Time is 60-75 minutes. Tickets are $5-$30.

Details: 814-696-3877 or everettrailroad.com

• Santa Express, North Central Railway, New Freedom — Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and music in the station before your trip. Along the way, Santa climbs aboard for photos and to deliver a small gift to each child.

Trips are scheduled Fridays- Sundays, Dec. 13-20. Time is 45 minutes. Tickets are $10-$39.

Details: 717-942-2370 or steaminto history.com

• Santa Trolley, Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, Chartiers Township — In addition to taking a trolley ride with Santa, guests can view the Lionel model train layout and a special LEGO exhibit, make a holiday craft and snack on hot chocolate and cookies.

Event dates are Dec. 8 and 14-15. The 2-mile rides leave the station every 45 minutes from 9:15 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are $10-$12.

Details: 724-228-9256 or pa-trolley.org

Maryland

• The Polar Express Train, Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, Cumberland — Inspired by the popular 2004 movie, the ride to the “North Pole” is set to the movie soundtrack. Passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies as they hear a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic children’s book on which the movie is based. Upon arrival at the pole, they meet Santa; on the way back, everyone receives a silver sleigh bell. Pajamas are encouraged.

Trips are scheduled Fridays- Sundays through Dec. 22 and on Dec. 23. Time is 65 minutes. Tickets start at $65.

Details: 800-TRAIN50 or wmsr.com

Ohio

• Santa Train, Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Nelsonville — All aboard with Santa for a trip through the scenic Hocking River Valley. Each child receives a candy cane and one-on-one time with Santa.

Trips are scheduled Saturdays- Sundays through Dec. 20. Time is about 2 hours. Tickets are $17-$21.

Details: 855-323-3768 (weekdays), 740-753-9531 (weekends) or hvsry.org

West Virginia

• North Pole Express, Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, Romney — Ride the rails to the “North Pole” where Santa climbs aboard for a visit. The excursion includes caroling, milk and Mrs. Santa’s cookies and the story of how the train saves Christmas.

Trips are scheduled Fridays- Sundays through Dec. 20. Time is 75 minutes. Tickets are $25-$52.

Details: 304-424-0736 or potomac eagle.com