KISSIMMEE, Fla. – This most famous train in Christmas history is making a return stop at Gaylord Palms.
The Kissimmee resort announced “The Polar Express” will headline this year’s ICE! attraction, a 20,000-square-foot, walk-through experience carved entirely from approximately 2 million pounds of ice.
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Based on the beloved children’s book, “The Polar Express” follows Hero Boy — a doubting young child whisked away on a mysterious train on Christmas Eve. The conductor leads him and a group of children on an extraordinary journey to the North Pole, where Hero Boy discovers the true spirit of Christmas through friendship and bravery.
Nearly 40 master ice carvers from Harbin, China will spend roughly 35 days sculpting larger-than-life scenes from the film inside a 9-degree environment. Featured scenes include the Polar Express train arriving at Hero Boy’s house, the iconic hot chocolate scene and a grand arrival at the North Pole.
“From a full-size train locomotive engine carved completely from solid ice to the many interactive moments and beloved scenes, it’s a one-of-a-kind attraction,” said Ross Barker, Gaylord Palms general manager. “We can’t wait for our team and the talented ice carvers to bring this magical story to life in a truly memorable way.”
The immersive Christmas celebration runs Nov. 13 through Jan. 3, 2027.
The Polar Express last appeared at Gaylord Palms’ ICE in 2019. The resort cited strong guest demand as the reason for its return.
Beyond ICE!, the 65-acre property will offer a full slate of holiday programming, including “POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance” — a cirque-style Broadway production that won a Telly Award for Best Immersive Family Holiday Show — along with Alpine Village, a Christmas Carousel, ice tubing, a Naughty or Nice Escape Room and holiday dining experiences.
For more ticket information, click here.