All aboard! One of Central Florida’s most popular holiday attractions is returning to Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, and this year’s ICE! experience is bringing back a familiar Christmas favorite.

ICE! featuring The Polar Express™ opens November 13, 2026, transforming millions of pounds of ice into a walk-through winter wonderland inspired by the beloved animated holiday film. The attraction is part of the resort’s annual Christmas celebration, which continues through January 3, 2027.

Step Aboard The Polar Express — Made Entirely of Ice

Inside the 20,000-square-foot attraction, visitors will discover 11 larger-than-life scenes recreating memorable moments from The Polar Express. A team of 40 master ice artisans from Harbin, China will spend more than a month carving the frozen displays.

Guests can expect to see the train arriving at the young boy’s home, the memorable hot chocolate scene, a dramatic mountain descent, and the magical arrival at the North Pole.

The experience will also feature five two-story-tall ice slides, allowing visitors to glide through the frozen landscape of Glacier Gulch.

More than 2 million pounds of ice will be used to create the colorful sculptures and immersive scenes!

It’s Going to Be Cold — Really Cold!

Although the attraction is located in sunny Central Florida, temperatures inside ICE! are maintained at approximately 9 degrees Fahrenheit.

Guests receive a complimentary blue winter parka to wear during their visit. Warm clothing, long pants, gloves, and hats are recommended, and closed-toe shoes are required for the ice slides.

Most visitors spend approximately 20 to 40 minutes exploring the attraction, although guests may take longer if they wish.

A Holiday Favorite Returns

The Polar Express previously appeared at Gaylord Palms in 2019, making the 2026 season a return for the popular theme.

Whether families remember the previous attraction or are experiencing it for the first time, this year’s displays will offer plenty of opportunities to explore the story, admire the ice sculptures, and capture holiday photos.

More Christmas Activities at Gaylord Palms

ICE! is only part of the holiday celebration. Gaylord Palms will also feature additional seasonal experiences throughout the resort, including:

  • Snow Flow Mountain ice tubing
  • Snowball Build & Blast
  • The Christmas Carousel
  • Photos with Santa
  • Gingerbread decorating
  • POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance holiday performances
  • Christmas shopping and festive displays

Some activities require separate tickets or special experience packages. Visitors can explore available options before planning their trip.

Dates, Location & Tickets

Event: ICE! featuring The Polar Express™

Dates: November 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027

Location: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Address: 6000 West Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746

Admission: Ticket prices vary by date and selected experiences. Children ages 3 and under receive free admission to ICE!

Tickets: Advance purchase is required. ICE! uses timed entry, and tickets are available through the resort’s official booking website.

Parking: Paid parking is available at the resort. Additional fees and taxes may apply.

Official Website: Christmas at Gaylord Palms

ICE! Tickets: View Tickets and Availability

Plan Your Holiday Visit

With towering ice sculptures, frozen slides, and a Christmas story brought to life, ICE! featuring The Polar Express is shaping up to be a memorable holiday outing in Central Florida!

Visitors are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance, arrive early for their scheduled entry time, and dress warmly for the freezing temperatures inside the attraction.

For families looking to add something a little different to their holiday plans, this is one Christmas experience that brings a genuine taste of winter to Florida!

Images courtesy of Marriott International

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