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If you’re looking for a small town near Montreal that feels straight out of a Christmas movie, look no further! This tiny village is like a real-life holiday snow globe, with cozy huts, quaint shops, reindeer and even Santa himself.
Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains, Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, New York, is a true winter wonderland for big and little kids alike. With adorable, snow-covered cottages, twinkling lights, and candy-coloured shops, this hidden gem is so festive it could melt even the Grinch’s heart.
In fact, it’s so magical that even Walt Disney himself was charmed! The people behind Santa’s Workshop say Walt Disney visited and was so inspired he sent his own team of Disney “Imagineers” to capture the holiday magic.
Under two hours south of Montreal, this real-life North Pole experience is perfect for a festive weekend road trip. However, you could easily get there and back in a day if you’re tight on time.
When you arrive, Santa himself will be ready to greet you. Drop off your Christmas list, grab a picture, and soak up the cozy vibes of his little house.
Then, make your way to the reindeer barn, where you can meet Santa’s famous in-flight team in person. Each reindeer has its own stall with a name above it, so you can finally tell Dasher and Dancer apart. And don’t miss St. Nicholas Chapel nearby, where you can enjoy festive organ music and admire a beautiful Nativity display.
One of the highlights of the holiday season is the Village of Lights. On select dates in December, Santa’s Workshop transforms into a glowing winter wonderland. As you wander through, you’ll be treated to twinkling lights, carols, and a cozy fire pit, all setting the stage for an evening that feels like it’s out of a Hallmark movie.
You can sip hot chocolate under the stars, surrounded by the soft glow of Christmas lights—does it get much more cozy than that?!
A cozy building at Santa’s Workshop, North Pole.North Pole NY | Website
If you’re a fan of holiday shopping, Santa’s Workshop has you covered with quaint stores offering everything from personalized Santa hats to handmade ornaments and candles. There’s also the Toy Shop, naturally, and a post office where kids can send their letters in advance to Santa.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, head to the Bake Shop or Candy Shop to stock up on everything from homemade chocolates and fudge to cookies and more.
That’s not all. Santa’s Workshop also has classic rides for kids and holiday shows featuring beloved Christmas characters. Friendly elves and animated characters wander through the village, creating that perfect Christmas card atmosphere everywhere you look.
If all of that wasn’t enough holiday magic for you, you can also book Breakfast or Dinner with Santa, which includes a holiday meal and a chance for the big guy to stop by your table and say hello. Reservations are a must for these meals, so book early if you’re interested.
Winter weekends kick off in mid-November and run through December, with the Village of Lights taking place on select dates in December.
General admission costs $39.95 per person, although children under 2 are free. Tickets for the Village of Lights event are $24.95 per person (does not include general admission), with children under 2 free, but keep in mind you can only buy them in person.
Breakfast with Santa starts at $49.95 (including general admission), and Dinner with Santa is $69.95 (includes Village of Lights admission), both of which require reservations due to limited availability.
Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, NY
Price: From $39.95 per person for general admission, kids under 2 go free
When: Winter Weekends are Saturdays and Sundays from November 16 to December 15, 2024. Village of Lights is select dates in December.
Address: 324 Whiteface Memorial Hwy, Wilmington, NY
Why You Need To Go: Whether you’re a Christmas fanatic or just craving a quick, cozy escape from the city, a visit to Santa’s Workshop will make you feel like a kid again!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.
