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.
Trains are typically pulled by a combination of either historic diesel or steam locomotives. Its star steam engine is 4-6-0 #2248, a 4-6-0 built by the Cooke Locomotive & Machine Works in 1896 for the Southern Pacific. However, it has been out of service since 2016.
Typical diesel power is either GP7 #2199 (built as Santa Fe #2788 in 1953) or FL9s (ex-New Haven in 1960) #2014 and #2016. All passenger cars and locomotives are adorned in an attractive red burgundy and cream livery…