Best Christmas Attractions In Texas: Polar Express And Hotel

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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.

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.

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!

Singing and dancing waiters bring hot cocoa and cookies for passengers to enjoy under the enchanting glow of holiday lights.

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!

Speaking of Santa, the big man himself boards the train to hear everyone's Christmas wishes...

...and hand out silver sleigh bells! Listen closely - they say only true believers can hear it ringing.

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!

Next stop: the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, AKA a bone fide winter wonderland deep in the heart of Texas.

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.

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!

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!

Please visit the websites for both the Texas State Railroad and Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center for more information about their holiday events.

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!”

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Ride A Christmas Train, Then Stay In A Christmas-Themed Hotel For A Holly Jolly Texas Adventure

Explore Texas

Ride A Christmas Train, Then Stay In A Christmas-Themed Hotel For A Holly Jolly Texas Adventure

Katie Lawrence

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