Combining the festive cheer of Christmas with the rugged charm of the Wild West, Pioneer Winter Wonderland in Phoenix offers a unique holiday experience that’s sure to become a family tradition. This brand-new Christmas exhibit in the Valley blends Arizona’s rich pioneer history with the enchantment of the holiday season, creating a memorable outing for all ages.
Step back in time as you explore authentic buildings and interact with time-period actors embodying the spirit of the Old West, all while surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations. Pioneer Winter Wonderland is packed with activities and entertainment, from captivating cowboy reenactments to dazzling acrobatic performances by North Pole Elves. With opportunities to meet Santa Claus, enjoy train and horse rides, savor delicious gourmet food truck offerings, and groove to live music, arriving early is highly recommended to make the most of your day.
While your General Admission ticket unlocks a wide array of experiences at Pioneer Winter Wonderland in Phoenix, a variety of exciting add-ons are available to customize your visit. Let’s explore the wonderland of activities that await.
Included in Your Winter Wonderland Adventure
Engaging Live Shows
Don’t miss the Live Play featuring cowboys and elves! This dynamic show, running hourly and lasting approximately 30-40 minutes, is a crowd-pleaser for both children and adults, blending action with humor. It’s an absolute must-see during your visit.
Elf School Fun
For aspiring elves, Elf School is the perfect stop. Kids can immerse themselves in the world of elves, earning their “degree” in all things elf-related. With coloring activities and more, this engaging area might just become a favorite for the little ones.
Stroll Down Candy Cane Lane
Take a delightful walk through Candy Cane Lane, immersing yourselves in the sweet and festive atmosphere.
Santa’s Talking Tree
Prepare to be amazed by Santa’s Enormous Talking Tree! Make sure to stop and ask the tree for a joke – you won’t be disappointed!
Cherished Santa Photo Op
Capture the magic of Christmas with a free digital photo with Santa Claus himself! Printed photos are available for purchase if you wish to have a tangible keepsake of this special moment.
Stardust Panning Adventure
Unleash your inner gold prospector at the Stardust Panning Station! Each child receives a bag of “gold” and can experience the thrill of panning for gold for as long as they desire. This hands-on activity is sure to be a hit with budding adventurers.
Giant Human Ornaments
Get ready for some rollicking fun in the Giant Human Ornaments! These inflatable hamster balls provide amusement for various ages. While smaller children (5 and 7-year-olds in our experience) might find it a bit challenging to move them significantly, older kids (like a 12-year-old) and even adults can enjoy rolling around with ease.
Child panning for gold at the Stardust Panning Station, a fun and engaging activity included with general admission.
The Grinch’s Whimsical Walk and House
Take a whimsical stroll to visit the Grinch’s house and immerse yourself in the world of Whoville (or maybe not-so-Whoville!).
Grinch Jail Fun
Perhaps a member of your family deserves a humorous stint in the Grinch Jail? This playful photo opportunity adds a touch of mischievous fun to your visit.
Santa’s Sleigh House Display
Admire the festive Santa’s Sleigh House display, perfect for more photo opportunities and soaking in the Christmas spirit.
Live Entertainment Across Two Stages
Enjoy a variety of live entertainment performances happening on two stages throughout Pioneer Winter Wonderland, ensuring there’s always something exciting to watch and listen to.
Story Time with Mrs. Claus
Gather around for Story Time with the warm and welcoming Mrs. Claus! Adding to the charm, complimentary hot chocolate and cookies are offered to guests under 100 years old during story time.
North Pole Office for Letters to Santa
Visit the North Pole Office and let your children craft and write letters to Santa Claus. This classic Christmas activity is a heartwarming addition to your Wonderland experience.
Santa’s Reindeer Ranch
Get up close and personal with Santa’s Reindeer at the Reindeer Ranch! Observe these magnificent animals and learn more about them.
Step into the 1800s House
Explore the 1800s House, offering a glimpse into Arizona’s pioneer past and providing an educational and historical element to your Winter Wonderland visit.
Enhance Your Wonderland Experience: Optional Paid Activities
Winter Wonderland Express Train Ride
All aboard the Winter Wonderland Express! This charming train ride is available for $10 per person (children under 2 ride free) and provides a scenic tour of the winter wonderland.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Experience the romance and elegance of a horse & carriage ride. For $10 per person, embark on a mile-long journey through illuminated areas exclusively accessible on this enchanting ride.
North Pole Carnival Games and Rides
For thrill-seekers and game enthusiasts, the North Pole Carnival offers a range of carnival games and rides at an additional cost. Test your skills and enjoy classic carnival fun with a Christmas twist.
Souvenir Shopping
Browse a variety of merchandise and souvenirs, from festive Santa hats to create-your-own stocking kits, allowing you to take a piece of the Pioneer Winter Wonderland magic home with you.
Largest Bounce House Fun
Kids can burn off some energy at the Largest Bounce House! Bounce sessions start at $5 for 30 minutes of inflatable fun.
Christmas Escape Room Challenge
Test your family’s puzzle-solving skills in the Christmas-themed Escape Room. For just $5 per person, this add-on is a worthwhile adventure for families with older children or escape room enthusiasts.
VIP Lounge Access
For a more relaxed and pampered experience, consider the VIP Lounge. Available to VIP package holders, the lounge offers a comfortable space to unwind and enjoy food service, a welcome respite from the outdoor excitement, especially with energetic children.
Food and Beverage Delights
Throughout Pioneer Winter Wonderland, you’ll find various food and drink vendors offering treats and refreshments. Additionally, food trucks will be on-site, providing a range of gourmet food options to satisfy every appetite. Check social media for the daily food truck schedule.
Child panning for gold at the Stardust Panning Station, a fun and engaging activity included with general admission.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Pioneer Winter Wonderland, remember to dress warmly, as the outdoor location just outside of town can get chilly, especially in the evenings. Gloves and hats are highly recommended. If you have picky eaters in your family, consider packing some snacks or protein bars, as it can be challenging to get kids to pause their fun for a full meal.
Pioneer Winter Wonderland Location & Dates
Pioneer Winter Wonderland Official Website
Address: 3901 W Pioneer Road Phoenix, AZ 85086
Dates: November 1 – January 5, 2024
Open: Thursday – Sunday
Discount Opportunities
Take advantage of a $5 discount on Thursdays through Sundays by bringing a non-perishable food item to donate to Saint Rose and St Vincent de Paul. Keep an eye on their social media channels for announcements about additional discount nights and special promotions.
Experience the unique blend of Christmas magic and Wild West adventure at Pioneer Winter Wonderland in Phoenix – a festive outing the whole family will cherish!
