A timeless tradition (well, one that has become popular in the last ten years...) is taking a steam train ride during the Christmas Holidays. Ever since The Polar Express was published (and the movie didn't hurt either), kids of all ages have been dying to recreate the experience on a real, old-fashioned steam train. Trains all across the country put together Christmas events, and lucky for us, we have one right down the road.
The Grapevine Vintage Railroad is hosting rides on the North Pole Express. Running each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in December, the North Pole Express is another one of those "can't-miss" Christmas events. When our kiddos were younger, we rode on the North Pole Express several years in a row and never tired of it's wonder. I highly recommend it for anyone with young kiddos, for it truly is a memorable experience.
The Grapevine Vintage Railroad dresses up it's steam engine holiday style and takes families on a one-hour adventure from the downtown Grapevine Depot on Main Street. The event begins with pre-boarding holiday fun, we sang carols and made Christmas crafts. And as you make your way to board the train, you wind yourself through a maze of Christmas trees. Seats are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so get there early. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance online.
Everything is very official on the North Pole Express, down to the conductor punching your tickets. It always ends up being my favorite picture pose of the event. And as the conductor calls "All-Aboard", the excitement builds as we are taken to far-away North Pole.
Stories are told, joyful Christmas Songs are played and Santa's elves even jingle their bells, adding to the merriment of the ride. And before you know it, Santa Claus has arrived in your car to visit with all the children.
Santa poses for pictures and asks what they would like for Christmas - always spending a good deal of time with each one. What a fun setting to meet the Big Guy in!
As a mom of 2 boys who love trains, this is a special event for them. The excitement of being on a train ride combined with meeting Santa is almost too much! It is a great opportunity to get some terrific photos as well, but mostly you will be there creating some incredible family memories.
Tickets for the North Pole Express are $18/person. Children under 24 months are free and can sit on an adult's lap. Don't forget to wear your favorite Christmas PJs!
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