Climb aboard the North Pole Express for a festive train ride to the North Pole!
This holiday tradition in Grapevine is perfect for family and friends of all ages.
Here’s everything you need to know about the North Pole Express in Grapevine, Texas for this year.
Also Read: 24 Best Christmas destinations in Texas
Where is Grapevine, Texas?
Grapevine is a city located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in North Texas.
It makes an excellent day trip from Dallas.
Grapevine is famously known as the Christmas Capital of Texas and is visited by over one million people during the holiday season.
This Texan town is home to many popular Christmas events and attractions, including the North Pole Express.
Also Read: 19 Best Things to do for Christmas in Grapevine, Texas
What is the North Pole Express, Grapevine?
The North Pole Express is a festive Christmas train ride that takes place in Grapevine, Texas.
The train departs from the Grapevine Vintage Railroad station and takes passengers on a journey to the North Pole.
When is the North Pole Express event on?
This holiday train runs from mid-November through December.
For 2022 season, the dates are Nov. 25-Dec. 23.
It departs from the historic Cotton Belt Railroad Depot in Grapevine, Texas.
North Pole Express, Texas – Tickets and Seating Options
Since this is one of the most popular holiday events in Texas, you will have guests purchasing tickets from July itself.
Many tickets are often sold out by October – so be sure to plan your holiday adventure well in advance.
Tickets for this season have been already sold out.
The holiday train has two seating options: First Class Tickets at $40 and Touring Class Tickets at $35.
First Class Coach Tickets
If you want to make your holiday train ride even more special, book the First Class seating.
You can seat on upholstered seats on the beautifully decorated vintage coaches.
Touring Class Coach Tickets
The Touring Class is a great option if you’re looking for an economical way to enjoy the North Pole Express.
You can relax on wooden bench style seating while enjoying the ride.
The North Pole Grapevine Polar Express experience
Here’s what you can expect as a part of the North Pole Express experience.
Christmas Lights and photo ops before the train
Pick up your tickets and get ready to enjoy the ride.
Seeing the train pull in into the station is an amazing experience.
There are also plenty of photo ops at the station.
Polar Express, Grapevine train ride begins!
As soon as you board the train, you’re transported to the North Pole.
Elves welcome you aboard the beautifully decorated coaches.
With the entire party seated in all coaches, the fun begins!
Ride to the North Pole
On board, all passengers can enjoy a drink and cookies – complimentary!
Sipping on Santa’s Frosty Chocolate Snow Milk served by elves is a magical experience.
Plus, the frosty milk is served in a keepsake memory mug!
The cookies are baked by Mrs. Claus herself in the north Pole kitchen.
You can also listen to a variety of classic holiday songs and Christmas carols performed by strolling musicians.
The North Pole and Santa Claus
At the North Pole, Santa Claus himself comes to join Mrs. Claus and the elves.
Kids love when he makes an appearance, greets them all, and poses for pictures.
Don’t forget your camera!
Each child also receives a special gift from Santa – a silver bell – before the train returns to Grapevine.
North Pole Express, Grapevine FAQS
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the North Pole Express, Grapevine.
How long is the North Pole Express train ride in Grapevine, TX?
The duration of the ride is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes round-trip.
Where does the Grapevine Polar Express depart?
This memorable train ride departs from Grapevine station.
How to dress for the North Pole Express?
Please dress warmly as it may be cold in some areas of the train cars.
Be sure to wear holiday pajamas.
Tips to make the most of your trip
Purchase tickets in advance: preferably July or August.
Buy tickets in even number to avoid chance of a family member seated with strangers.
Other festive Christmas activities in Grapevine
The Grapevine Convention Visitors bureau has many other activities planned to celebrate the holiday season.
Here are other popular attractions before or after your train ride.
Also Read: 13 Best Things to do in Texas in winter
Explore the North Pole neighborhood
Next to the railroad, you will find the north Pole neighborhood.
This magical neighborhood has everything from a snowy Christmas village forest to Santa’s workshop and cookie making classes.
Check out downtown Christmas lights
Downtown Grapevine is beautifully decorated with over a million holiday lights.
You can explore the lights on a horse-drawn carriage or simply stroll around to take them all in.
Take a festive wine tasting tour
Grapevine is known for its award-winning wines.
During the holidays, you can enjoy a special holiday wine tasting tour at the downtown tasting rooms.
Also Read: 17 Best Things to do in Grapevine, Texas
Don’t miss out on this magical experience – Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s North Pole Express is well worth the trip.
Which is your favorite Polar Express in Texas? Let us know below!