Now in its 17th year, the North Pole Experience continues to capture the hearts of families across the country with an adventure that feels straight out of a storybook. Nestled among the pines of Flagstaff, this immersive holiday attraction invites guests to do more than witness the magic of Christmas; they get to live it. From elf-led adventures to hands-on workshops and heartwarming moments with Santa himself, it’s no wonder nearly three-quarters of a million guests have already passed through its doors. This year marks a milestone for the beloved experience, as the North Pole Experience (NPX) celebrates welcoming its 750,000th visitor with more than $240,000 in recent upgrades and brand-new interactive features. And true to form, it’s brimming with the kind of warmth and wonder that even the grinchiest heart can’t resist.
The magic begins the moment families board the enchanted trolley, powered by the Aurora Borealis. The glowing ride transports guests through a portal to the North Pole, where towering English oak doors open to reveal Santa’s Grand Workshop. Inside, over half a million pieces of decor, antique toys, and Broadway-quality sets create a 360° experience where every sense is engaged. Twinkling lights, cheerful music, and the scent of warm doughnuts fill the air, setting the stage for what feels like stepping into a live Christmas movie. “It’s a place where generations can experience magic together, hand in hand,” says Scott Pace, Creator and Founder of NPX. “What began as a dream for our own children has grown into a tradition for families across the country. This milestone reminds us why we started, to give people a chance to believe again.”
Each room in the North Pole tells its own story. In the Toy Hall of Fame, visitors walk alongside proud Toy Soldiers as they marvel at Santa’s most iconic creations. The Assembly Room invites children to join the elves in building toys, learning that the greatest part of giving comes from the heart. And when the scent of cocoa fills the air, it’s time for a stop at Mrs. Claus’s Bakery, where families can sip hot chocolate, chat with Mrs. Claus, and enjoy warm Yetti-O mini doughnuts while dancing with bakery elves. At Elf University, the learning never stops. Kids become honorary elves as they discover the secrets of flight that power Santa’s sleigh. In Santa’s Mailroom, letters from around the world are sorted with care, and each guest gets to write their own wish list before venturing into Area 47, Santa’s top-secret sleigh hangar.
New this year, Santa unveils one of his most exciting upgrades yet: an immersive Sleigh Hangar Sphere Simulation, a 360° panoramic view of Santa’s global flight network. Families will watch as portals ignite and sleighs soar across continents, connecting the magic of the North Pole to children everywhere. As guests exit Santa’s parlor after their private visit, and receive a keepsake gift and complimentary photos, they’re greeted by a breathtaking new centerpiece: The Giving Tree. Standing tall and radiant, it shimmers with ornaments of kindness, ribbons of gratitude, and handwritten wishes from children across the world. It’s a touching reminder of what the season is truly about: love, generosity, and connection.
Voted Arizona’s Best Holiday Experience for Children seven of the last nine years, NPX has become more than a seasonal outing; it’s a cherished family tradition. Guests often arrive in matching pajamas, ready to step through the Magic Portal into a cinematic Christmas world. And with snow-dusted streets, cozy hotels, and festive shops nearby, the city of Flagstaff has become an essential part of the North Pole journey. From grandparents rediscovering the joy of childhood to wide-eyed toddlers meeting Santa for the first time, every visitor leaves with one shared feeling: believing in the magic of Christmas all over again. The North Pole Experience takes place from November 21 to December 24, 2025. Tickets range from $58 to $78, and reservations are strongly recommended, as the event sells out each year. For more details, visit northpoleexperience.com.