There’s something about Maine that feels extra special in November and December. It might be the twinkle lights that show up on houses across the state or it might be that we’re just a LITTLE bit closer to the North Pole, which means Santa probably pays us a little more attention. But, it’s this special feeling that makes Christmas events feel even more exciting. One of the best is this remarkable North Pole train ride. It features Santa himself!

During most of the year, The Boothbay Railway museum is a place to learn about the history of all transportation in Maine.

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Visitors can also learn about the early days of the automobile and the daily life of Mainers who lived here in the mid-eighteenth through the mid-nineteenth centuries.

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While beautiful rides on the train take place for events throughout the year, when Santa comes to town things get even more fun!

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After arriving, visitors begin the experience by writing letters to Santa inside the main train station at the museum, which has been built to look like the historic 1912 Freeport Station.

The_Concierge_8 / TripAdvisor

The warmth of the wood burning stove starts the cozy feelings right away!

Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

When the conductors yell “All Aboard!” everyone will take their seat inside the warm, heated North Pole Express heading to the North Pole!

Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

The train will travel through the Village before arriving at Thorndike Station, decked out to look like the North Pole.

Steve Yenco/Mainly Maine Photography / via Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

This is where young and old will have the opportunity to meet Santa, himself!

Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

Santa will talk to youngsters and remind them that they must be good for all their Christmas dreams to come true.

North Pole Express at Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

There’s truly nothing like the face of a child meeting Santa in real life!

Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

Once the train arrives back at the station, everyone is invited to visit the Spruce Point Chapel for a storybook reading before heading to 1847 Boothbay Town Hall for hot chocolate and homemade cookies.

Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

The North Pole Express operates on Saturdays and Sundays (December 9, 10, 16, 17 & 23) and tickets are $15 for regular rides and $20 for a First Class seat.

Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

The Boothbay Railway Village is located at 86 Wiscasset Road in Boothbay, Maine. They can be reached on (207) 633-4727. Click here to learn more about The North Pole Express, including times and for answers to frequently asked questions.

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Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

Steve Yenco/Mainly Maine Photography / via Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

North Pole Express at Boothbay Railway Village / Facebook

It might feel early to talk about Christmas, but the reality is that the most special events sell out quickly and we don’t want you to miss this one.

Before the snow hits the ground across the state, take yourself on a little roadtrip to see the last of the leaves. We think these roads offer the best windshield views in Maine!

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