Polar Express

We went when my guys were 7 and 3. Seven was right on the edge of being too old, because he was studying too much. My 3 yr old ate it up. Although, the 7 yr old had a GREAT time, he just thought that Santas Villiage, when we pulled in, was...well, fake. That was disappointing...It was lame. I WISH that Disney would get their hands on it and really make a place for kids to believe!

But...for all of his scrutiny, he WANTED to believe, so he was excited when he could hear his bell ring. We caught the momment and it was precious!....

http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s180/r34498/believer.jpg

I would probably suggest that 18 months is too young. You want them to be able to anticipate - that was half of the fun!

"Only a life lived for others, is the life worthwhile" - Albert Einstein

My daughter is seven and we went last year. It was a blast. I think your child will enjoy it - it's a good family outing no matter the age. I am not sure yours will know what's going on, but at that age they still enjoy seeing other people, the lights, the excitement, etc.

When you get there you can wander around the village and visit Mrs. Clause and there are some coloring activities for older children. Kids can also write and mail their letter to Santa.

Then you go and wait for your train to arrive - watching the kids scream when the train pulls up is half the fun. After everyone boards they serve hot coco and lyrics to carols and everyone sings. Then when you get to the North Pole (which is lame, in my opinion), Santa gets on the train and hands out really nice and big bells to all the kids. It's a great keepsake.

So it's simple, but it's fun. Some people go every year, but I would not - although it's a worthy tradition, my daughter thought one time was fine.

I think the ideal age to go for the first time would be three. have fun. And yes - do book now. I called in August and could only get tickets for November 14. Everything closer to Christmas was booked!

We have gone and we love it. You do have to get the tickets early. Certain dates sell out really fast, and we have purchased our tickets in September. We are going this year. I think 18 months is a bit young for her to remember it but she will still have fun and I know you and your hubby will love it. We are going before my older kids lose interest.

Jennifer is a discussion leader for arizonamoms.com and mommy to four beautiful girls who range from 9 to 4 years of age.

I say do it if its a family outing. Of course most likely the child will not remember, but if she enjoys it for the time she is there then go for it. We are planning to take my son who will be 4 years old when we go in December. My younger son will only be 1 year old (literally 13 months old) but who cares I still want to go for the family time. My older son will love it and my younger son will not remember. It's okay...go and have fun!

LisaMommy is a 38 year old discussion leader for arizonamoms.com from the Paradise Valley/Scottsdale area. Her two boys are ages 9 months and 3 years old.

My advice is that if you enjoy it, when you get off the train that night, just go inside and buy your tickets for the next year. Then you can have your choice of dates.

2 years ago we bought in April, and were limited to a wknd in November...early Nov. way b4 T-giving. Ugh. But that night, we bought for 13 mo. later in December of the following year. Perfect! :)

The singing and family bonding is the best part of it...not the actual (lame) North Pole that you ride to and ride back from.

Happy2BMommy, is a stay-at-home mom who just turned 40 (argh!) with a 7 yr. old daughter and a 5 yr. old son, and is a discussion leader for arizonamoms.com living in Scottsdale.

This thread was a good reminder to call and make reservations. Each year I seem to forget - but thanks to this post, not this year! Thanks "avianomom" for the prompt reminder! I know my girls would love it!!