Make this holiday season your most magical one yet by enjoying two of the most popular Christmas attractions in Texas on one trip. Hop on the Texas State Railroad’s signature Polar Express train, then spend the night in a hotel that decks its halls to the nines. This family-friendly adventure is sure to put a twinkle in the eye of Christmas lovers of all ages!
Your holly jolly adventure begins with a ride on the Texas State Railroad’s annual Polar Express train.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official” Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Rd 70, Palestine, TX 75801, USA
Golden ticket in hand, you’ll board a vintage train car and prepare to be whisked away on a magical journey to the North Pole.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
The event is inspired by the children’s book The Polar Express, which was later adopted into the movie we all know and love. Settle in and listen to the story as the train chugs along the tracks. Kids and adults alike find themselves hanging on every word!
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
Singing and dancing waiters bring hot cocoa and cookies for passengers to enjoy under the enchanting glow of holiday lights.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
About halfway through the ride, you’ll arrive at a Christmas village that looks exactly like the North Pole - complete with Santa’s reindeer and trusty elves!
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
Speaking of Santa, the big man himself boards the train to hear everyone’s Christmas wishes…
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
…and hand out silver sleigh bells! Listen closely - they say only true believers can hear it ringing.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
On the way back to the depot, the chefs lead passengers in singing Christmas carols. Upon arrival, feel free to stroll the decorated grounds and visit the gift shop or concession stand before heading out!
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
Next stop: the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, AKA a bone fide winter wonderland deep in the heart of Texas.
Christmas at Gaylord Texan Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051, USA
This world-class holiday destination boasts over two dozen separate attractions, including one of the most extravagant light displays you’ll ever see. The entire lobby is decked to the nines, and every night, the lights dance in time to festive tunes.
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
One of the most popular activities is ICE! This signature attraction features over two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures. You can even plunge down slides made of pure ice!
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
Guests can also enjoy snow tubing, ice skating, gingerbread house decorating, a Christmas carousel, and more. By the time you lay your head down to rest, you’ll be as tuckered out as Santa on Christmas Day!
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
Please visit the websites for both the Texas State Railroad and Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center for more information about their holiday events.
Facebook/Texas State Railroad “Official”
Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, 789 Park Rd 70, Palestine, TX 75801, USA
Christmas at Gaylord Texan
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051, USA
Have you ever taken a ride on the Texas State Railroad’s Polar Express? What about spending the night at the Gaylord Texan during the holiday season? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our previous article to learn about Texas’ very own “Christmas Capital!”
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