Christmas at Gaylord Rockies is always a big deal, but this year, I got the rare chance to peek behind the curtain and see the magic in the making. With ICE! featuring The Polar Express™ set to open soon, the resort gave me an exclusive look at the nearly finished exhibit—and even in its unfinished state, ICE! is already shaping up to be a must-see holiday experience.
Artisans from the ice carving capital of the world, Harbin, China, have been working around the clock, shaping over two million pounds of ice into intricate scenes from The Polar Express™. I had the pleasure of watching them in action; operating chainsaws and chisels, transforming blocks of ice into detailed sculptures, and employing carving skills passed down through generations. Several of the artisans expressed pride in bringing the unique craftsmanship of their hometown, Harbin, to Colorado. It’s hard not to be impressed when you realize how many hours they’ve spent perfecting every frozen detail. And all without a single meltdown. (Ice pun intended.)
To be upfront, I wasn’t planning on trying the ice slides. But peer pressure is real, and after some external encouragement I caved. These slides aren’t just for kids—they’re fast, fun, and a bit of an adrenaline rush. Flying down the frozen track was more exhilarating than I expected and is sure to be a hit with
guests of all ages.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get any cooler (pun fully intended), I got a sneak peek at Cirque: Frost. This acrobatic show featuring high-flying stunts and winter-themed theatrics is going to be the hidden gem of the holiday season. Think acrobats defying gravity, contortionists doing things that made me feel
sore just watching, and performers resembling snowflakes with their graceful movement. Beyond ICE!, Gaylord Rockies is decked out with festive Christmas décor and holiday activities at Mistletoe Village. Meet Santa, join Mrs. Claus for Storytime, try your hand at the Elf Training Academy, or decorate a gingerbread house. And after all the fun, overnight guests can unwind at Arapahoe Springs Waterpark, where the heated pools, hot tubs and lazy river offer a retreat from the winter chill. With tickets for Christmas at Gaylord Rockies on sale now and room packages offering exclusive perks, you’ll want to book soon—because just like the ice slides, these prime dates are going fast.