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A Texas Christmas Train Ride In Grapevine!

Published: November 8, 2025

By: Adam Burns

There’s a reason Grapevine calls itself the Christmas Capital of Texas, and few experiences capture that spirit like the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and its beloved Santa’s North Pole Express. Equal parts living history, small-town charm, and holiday magic, this is where vintage railroading meets a storybook Christmas—right in the heart of historic downtown Grapevine.

A living link to North Texas railroad heritage

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad (GVRR) operates from the Grapevine Cotton Belt Depot on Main Street, a handsome hub that looks as if it stepped out of another era. The railroad’s beautifully restored 1920s-era coaches set the tone: wood paneling, brass fixtures, and tall windows framing the passing scenery. Depending on the season and maintenance schedules, trains are pulled by vintage diesel power or, on select occasions, an 1890s steam locomotive affectionately known as “Puffy.” Either way, the emphasis is on authenticity and the relaxed pace of early 20th-century rail travel.

Throughout the year, GVRR runs themed excursions ranging from leisurely jaunts to the Fort Worth Stockyards to short, family-friendly rides. There are wine trains, jazz and specialty events, and weekends where the entire downtown feels like a living postcard. But it’s during the holidays that the railroad becomes a centerpiece of Grapevine’s citywide celebration, drawing families from across Texas and beyond.

What makes Santa’s North Pole Express special

Santa’s North Pole Express isn’t just a train ride—it’s a full holiday experience that begins the moment you arrive at the depot. Main Street twinkles with lights, shop windows glow, and carols drift through the air. Inside, you’ll find themed decor, photo opportunities, and cheerful staff who seem to know exactly how to turn pre-ride jitters into giggles and smiles.

The journey itself is a cozy, joy-filled ride crafted with younger travelers—and their inner children—in mind. Expect festive music, storytellers or hosts who lead sing-alongs, and costumed characters who bring the North Pole to life as the train glides into the night. Pajamas are encouraged, and you’ll see entire families embracing the tradition with matching sets and plush slippers. The coaches transform into rolling Christmas cards: lights twinkle, little ones press their noses to the glass, and the entire car joins in a chorus of familiar songs.

While details vary year to year, many seasons include holiday treats like cocoa and cookies, keepsakes to commemorate your ride, and an appearance by Santa himself. The big moment, of course, is when Santa steps into the car and the whole place audibly inhales. It’s a warm, intimate encounter—more personal than a mall photo line—giving kids time to share a wish and grownups the gift of watching their reactions up close. The pacing is deliberate: nothing feels rushed, and there’s room for all the small, memorable moments that turn a family outing into a tradition.

Why it’s become a Texas tradition

Part of the magic is Grapevine’s wider holiday ecosystem. The city layers in parades, light shows, artisan markets, wine tasting rooms, and seasonal installations at nearby hotels and attractions. It’s easy to make the North Pole Express the anchor of a full day or weekend downtown: have lunch on Main Street, pop into boutiques for unique gifts, then warm up before your evening departure with a stroll through illuminated plazas.

The railroad itself amplifies that sense of place. The vintage coaches provide a tactile, slow-paced experience that’s rare in modern life. There’s time to notice the details—the polished wood, the conductor’s punch, the glow of carriage lights reflected in little eyes. Whether you grew up riding trains or are introducing them to your kids, the experience bridges generations. Grandparents reminisce about their first train ride, parents snap keepsake photos, and kids get to believe a little harder in the magic of Christmas.

Planning and practical tips

- Book early. Santa’s North Pole Express is extremely popular, and many dates sell out quickly after tickets go on sale. If your plans are firm, jump on your preferred date as soon as sales open.
- Choose your time thoughtfully. Earlier evening departures are great for younger riders with early bedtimes; later rides can feel extra cozy and twinkly after dark.
- Arrive with time to spare. Parking, picking up tickets, and soaking in the pre-ride atmosphere are part of the fun. Give yourself at least 45–60 minutes before departure, especially on peak weekends.
- Dress for comfort and photos. Matching pajamas are a tradition for many families. Layer up for outdoor time before and after the ride, and bring a small blanket for extra coziness on cooler nights.
- Pack light. Vintage coaches have limited storage and narrow aisles, so keep bags small. If you’re bringing a stroller, check current policies in advance.
- Check accessibility. Historic rail cars have unique layouts and steps. If anyone in your party needs mobility accommodations, reach out to the railroad before booking so staff can advise on the best options.
- Review current-year inclusions. Offerings like keepsake mugs, treats, or photo opportunities can vary by season. The official website will list exactly what’s included with your tickets.
- Make a day of it. Explore Main Street’s shops and tasting rooms, hunt for ornaments, or pair your train ride with other Grapevine holiday attractions for a full itinerary.

Beyond the holidays: year-round experiences

Even after the tinsel comes down, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad remains a delightful outing. The signature excursion to the Fort Worth Stockyards follows a historic corridor with views of railyards, river bottoms, and cityscapes, ending in one of Texas’s most atmospheric districts. Seasonal rides celebrate spring break, Mother’s Day, fall harvests, and more. For railfans, the equipment itself is a star: the craftsmanship of the coaches and the rumble of vintage locomotives are worth the ride alone.

A few pointers for any GVRR trip: tickets are often assigned by car and seat, so book together if you want your group seated in the same section. Bring snacks or check current concessions options; not all cars have the same amenities. And remember that historic equipment sometimes necessitates schedule or motive power changes—consider it part of the authentic railroad experience.

The bigger picture: community, nostalgia, and connection

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad does more than move people down the track. It knits together community and commerce, drawing visitors who fill restaurants, linger in wine tasting rooms, and discover small businesses up and down Main Street. For families, it becomes a marker in time—an annual photo on the platform steps, a gently creased ticket stub tucked into a scrapbook, a memory lodged between carols and cocoa.

In a digital-first world, that tactile, in-person magic is invaluable. The cadence of the rails, the conductor’s call, the warmth of a car full of neighbors and travelers—these are the ingredients of traditions that last. And with Santa’s North Pole Express, Grapevine has perfected the recipe: start with genuine heritage, add meticulous attention to detail, and serve it with a generous helping of holiday cheer.

How to get started

If you’re considering a trip this season, head to the official Grapevine Vintage Railroad website for current schedules, pricing, and availability. Look over the FAQs, note parking and arrival suggestions, and decide whether to pair your ride with other Grapevine holiday events. If you have little ones, involve them in the countdown—writing a wish list, picking pajamas, and choosing a favorite carol to sing on board.

Then, when the night arrives, put the phones away for a moment. Watch the lights blur beyond the window, listen for that collective gasp when Santa appears, and let the simple romance of a train ride carry you. The Grapevine Vintage Railroad has been doing just that for generations—saving the season one carload of Christmas spirit at a time.