Ride The Rails To A Magical Christmas Village On The Verde Canyon Railroad In Arizona

Ride the rails into the holiday season on the Verde Canyon Railroad's Magical Christmas Journey. This Christmas train in Arizona whisks passengers away to the North Pole on an enchanting journey complete with singing elves, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa himself. It promises to put a twinkle in the eyes of kids one to 92! It's just one of many great ways to spend the holiday season in Arizona.

The magic begins at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot before the train even departs for the North Pole.

Ethereal luminarias adorn the train station, while outdoor pergolas are decked out in icicle lights and oversized ornaments. Santa's elves can be seen roaming the grounds, and seasonal treats and libations can be purchased to enjoy as you stroll.

You'll also see a miniature holiday village at the depot, featuring a town square with 10 decorated tiny houses.

Children are given eagle wings to wear as they explore, a reflection of the Verde Canyon Railroad’s relationship with Liberty Wildlife of Arizona. The organization provides an educational bald eagle that visits the railroad regularly - there will be one on-site during your visit!

Once you've perused the village 'til your heart's content, it's time to embark on the journey to see the big man in red himself.

Both passenger coaches and open-air viewing cars are so heavily ornamented, they give Clark Griswold a run for his money. Passengers are entertained by elves and car attendants wearing wacky and whimsical outfits while serving festive beverages.

After passing through an enchanting light tunnel, the train emerges onto a private set of tracks that mark the entrance to the North Pole.

Santa, Mrs. Claus, and more elves are there to greet you and show you around their humble abode.

Life-size buildings are all dressed up in holiday cheer, and as the train rolls through town, you can't help but get in the Christmas spirit.

On the way back, Santa will hop on board and gift each child a memento to remember the trip by.

The ride lasts one hour round-trip, and tickets start at $60 for ages 11 and up, $40 for children 10 and under, and $60 for adults with an infant under one year old. Special rates apply for Christmas Eve excursions.

Trains depart at 4 PM, 5:30 p.m. 6:30 PM and 7 p.m. on select days from November 24 through December 24, and daily from December 16 until December 24. Trains become more frequent as the big day approaches.

But don't take our word for it alone! The Verde Canyon Railroad has posted an amazing short video of the Magical Christmas Journey on their YouTube channel, and you can get a sneak preview of the experience for yourself.

Have you taken this magical Christmas train in Arizona? Tell us about your journey in the comments section! You can visit the Verde Canyon Railroad website or Verde Canyon Railroad Facebook page to learn more and/or purchase tickets.

Have you ever embarked on the Magical Christmas Journey? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments section below. For another fun and festive holiday event in Arizona, check out Lights At The Farm in Mesa. If all these festivities are putting you in the giving mood, make sure to check out our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide.