It’s probably fair to say that most of us are Christmas fans. Some, however, are more fanatical than others. For Houston holiday lovers, if Space City just simply living up to your expectations, may we suggest to a trip to the North Pole of Texas: Grapevine. Located just outside Dallas, a few hours driving from Houston, Grapevine is the Yuletide destination of Texas, featuring a 40-day, city-wide celebration for the holidays.
The Christmas Capital of Texas: The Ultimate Winter Escape
Grapevine’s festive spirit is anchored by its larger-than-life attractions, which offer experiences found nowhere else in the Lone Star State:
The Gaylord Texan’s Frozen Wonderland
The Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center is the epicenter of Christmas creativity, hosting a multi-sensory environment that is a destination unto itself.
ICE! Featuring Elf is the resort’s critically acclaimed signature event is a walk-through exhibit built from over two million pounds of hand-carved ice. This incredible spectacle brings the classic story of Buddy the Elf to life, complete with character sculptures, scenes, and thrilling two-story-high ice slides carved entirely from solid ice.
Beyond ICE!, the The Christmas Village at The Gaylord Texan features a variety of wintry fun, including a six-lane tubing hill built from real, frozen ice, a massive 6,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink, and the exclusive, 21+ ICE! On The Blocks sub-zero bar.
Holiday Train Rides in Grapevine
The city’s historic 1920s-era Grapevine Vintage Railroad offers two distinct, decked-out train experiences:
One of the stars of the season is the Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s Christmas Wine Train. The elegant, adults-only journey offers passengers fine Texas wine and charming hors d’oeuvres while traveling through the scenic countryside, accompanied by holiday music.
For the kiddos, GVP also features the Santa’s North Pole Express. Designed for children, the magical ride gives pajama-laden boys and girls the chance to experience caroling elves, Mrs. Claus-made chocolate chips, Santa’s Frosty Chocolate Snow Milk, and an unforgettable meeting with Santa Claus.
Yuletide Glides and Theatrical Delights
The holiday merriment extends across Grapevine, creating photo opportunities and entertainment at every turn:
Often referred to as the “Rockefeller Center of the Southwest,” Peace Plaza Ice Rink is a Texas-sized outdoor skating rink that sits prominently in front of Grapevine Main Station, offering a perfect Yuletide glide beneath the town’s towering 64-foot-tall Christmas tree.
Furthermore, visitors are also encouraged to check out the Palace Theatre. The beautifully restored historic theater on Main Street hosts a magical array of seasonal entertainment, including festive concerts (such as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and The Texas Tenors), screenings of classic Christmas movies, and crafts.
Last-Minute Shopping & Holiday Ambiance
As the big day approaches, visitors can cram in last-minute gift shopping along the beautifully decorated Historic Main Street, lined with unique boutiques, or at the extensive Grapevine Mills mall, all while immersed in the glowing holiday arrangements of the Christmas Capital.
Grapevine delivers a complete, tradition-rich, and visually stunning holiday escape that is truly worth the journey.