Tips on a Trip to the North Pole Express in Grapevine

Is it entirely outdoors?

You might want to bring some snacks cause there is some wait while everyone gets on the train. Maybe a few toys in case they get tired of waiting.

Yes, the majority of things are outdoors. There's only 2 things that are indoors, the glass blowing demonstration and Santa's pictures/gift shop.

I would recommend getting there early. They have a "pre-show" with music and enertainment in a big tent. They ask the kids to come up to the front. I wish we had gotten there earlier to get a better seat toward the front. You might want to sit up towards the front, that way you also board the train first too.

The model train is worth seeing. It is huge and your 4 year old will love it. There is a jumping bouncing train that your child will enjoy also.

We got the hot chocolate and cookies, the hot chocolate was great. The cookies are small kid cookies like animal crackers type cookies.

We skipped the glass blowing area, however if we had time, we would have done that.

There is some toys and things for sale. Some of the things are really cute. They do have ornaments that you can get as a souvenier, that might be neat for your child to have that and put it on the Christmas tree to remember their trip to Grapevine on the train.

We went a few weeks ago and this was our second year to go. Puffy the Steam Engine blew up half way through the trip and we were stuck on the tracks in the middle of nowhere for a couple of hours. They ended up getting another train to come and remove the broken steam engine and then we were pushed back by a diesel engine. They passed out snacks and drinks and Santa made the rounds and spent alot of time with the kids. I commend the employees for turning what should have been a negative into a positive. Just bring toys, your camera and or video camera and dress warm. Have fun!

Hi A., how much were the tickets? Is it for littler kids or would kids of any age like it, adults included.
Thanks for your help. I had never heard of it before but sounds festive.

K.

Bring your camera! Lots of good photo ops! It's tons of fun! We just went on Sunday. We've gone every year for the last 4 years. Make sure you put your kids in their jammies!

I would get there maybe only about 15 minutes early b'c the wait can be awhile. They do sing Christmas carols and fun sing-alongs while you're waiting, but my son was ready to "ride engie!" Hopefully you'll have an extra hand to help you. It was lots of fun, and we'll go each year from now on. Someone else wanted to know about ticket prices, and I think they cost $16 for anyone over age 2. The train ride itself is only about 30 minutes; they play music, more sing-alongs and Santa and Mrs Claus come down the aisle of each car. Also, everyone puts their kids and babies in their Pjs which is so cute to see! It's a wonderful family outing!

We've gone for the past two years and we always wear pajamas and robes. It's so much fun and my son absolutely loves it. Layer for warmth if needed.

Don't forget to wear your pj's!!! ;-) All the cars are closed, so don't worry about being cold on the train. You might want to bring some extra cash because there are attractions, food and games set up around the waiting area. For the baby, I'd recommend using a sling/baby carrier so you won't have to worry about a stroller (that's how we went last year with my little one who was 4 months at the time). ENJOY and maybe we'll see you there (we're going again this year) ;-) M.