Review of "The Polar Express"

No, not the movie, which I would rate as fabulous! We rode the Mount Hood Railway Polar Express train the night before Thanksgiving with the kids. They loved it. Is it worth the money? I guess it depends on whether making memories with your kids is valuable to you.

I gave them their Christmas jammies early, which they were almost more excited about than the train! Aren't they cute?

We got on the train and listened to music from the Polar Express until they set off. The conductor came around and punched the tickets, like in the movie. It was cute. Then we were served hot chocolate and cookies to the tune of "Hot, Hot Chocolate" which the kids thought was great. But then, my kids always like food. The ride itself would probably be more interesting for adults if it were daylight and you could see the sights that make the train popular.

We took our copy of the book, and it was read on the train ride. When we arrived at the "North Pole," Santa got on the train and then talked to each of the kids and gave them a Christmas bell. We sang carols and rode back to the station.

My review would be that for adults, it's a little cheesy. But as I said, my kids thoroughly enjoyed every minute. If you talk it up and make it a real adventure, riding the Polar Express is a great family activity.