The Holiday season is upon us once again, and it feels like everyone is getting into the spirit. That means that for those who want to celebrate the spirit all day long and into the night, you can have an epic holiday adventure this year. Start by heading to the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad in Boone for the best holiday train ride in Iowa – a magical Polar Express adventure for kids of all ages. From there, you’ll head to nearby Des Moines for a night’s stay at the city’s newest boutique hotel – and you’d better believe the Surety Hotel is celebrating its inaugural Christmas in style. It’s the kind of jolly holiday adventure you’ll be talking about for many holiday seasons to come.
The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad is an adventure any time of year - but never more so than when their Santa Express takes off.
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In addition to all the usual sights, riders are taken through a North Pole adventure with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus in the flesh!
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The Jolly Old Elf and his very first helper will board the train and greet all the kids, giving them a Christmas memory of a lifetime.
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As you ride, you can indulge in hot cocoa and fresh sugar cookies - an indulgent twist on Santa’s favorite cookies and milk.
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When the sun goes down, the route will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland filled with beautiful light displays.
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If you don’t want to head home after your adventure, drive to nearby Des Moines and check into the Surety Hotel - a new boutique hotel that is decked out in its holiday best.
Surety Hotel/Facebook
This is the first Christmas for the Surety, and they’re making the most of it. All the common areas are decked out in festive decorations.
Surety Hotel/Facebook
There will be special events all through the season, including live music, photo ops - and lots of cookies!
Surety Hotel/Facebook
Have you taken the Santa Express train in previous years? Tell us about your experience on this holiday train ride in Iowa, and let us know your favorite Hawkeye State holiday traditions! If you’re planning to embark on this holiday adventure, you can visit the railroad and hotel websites to book your reservations today. And for another unforgettable Iowa holiday, check out this old-fashioned Christmas.
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Address: Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad | James H. Andrew Railroad Museum, 225 10th St, Boone, IA 50036, USAAddress: Surety Hotel, 206 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
