DALLAS — The holiday season is here, and the kids need to tell Santa what they want this Christmas!
Sure, they could write a letter, but you can always take them to meet the man himself right here in North Texas. Plus, you'll be able to get a picture that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re looking for a classic experience or something unique, there are plenty of places around the metroplex where kids can share their Christmas wishes with Santa.
Here’s a roundup of top spots to get those festive photos:
1. NorthPark Center – Dallas
Families can visit Santa in his beautifully decorated space, and there’s the option to book a reservation online to skip the line. Santa photos are available daily until Christmas Eve, and all proceeds include a donation to Children's Health.
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 12 - 5:30 p.m.
Reservations: Available online at NorthParkCenter.com
Starting price: $25
2. The Shops at Willow Bend – Plano
The Shops at Willow Bend invites families to take festive photos with Santa at his winter wonderland set. The shopping center has several special Santa events like Cowboys Claus and pet photos with Santa. The mall also offers a special "Sensory Friendly Santa" experience for children with special needs.
Hours: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday, 12 - 6 p.m.
Reservations: Available at ShopsAtWillowBend.com
Starting price: $39.99
3. Gaylord Texan Resort – Grapevine
For a truly magical experience, visit the Gaylord Texan Resort, where Santa’s Snowball Summit provides not only photos with Santa but also a variety of festive activities, including ice skating and holiday shows.
Hours: Check the Gaylord Texan website for specific hours.
Reservations: Recommended for photo sessions, visit GaylordTexan.com
Starting price: $40
4. Santa’s Village at the Dallas Arboretum – Dallas
Head to the Dallas Arboretum for an enchanting photo op with Santa amidst its stunning holiday displays. The Arboretum's Pauline and Austin Neuhoff Family Christmas Village is in full swing, which makes for the perfect experience getting a pic with Saint Nick.
Hours: Check the Dallas Arboretum website for specific hours.
Reservations: Not required, but recommended for group sessions. Visit DallasArboretum.org
Starting price: Donation/choose your price
5. Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops – Multiple locations
Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops is an annual tradition featuring free photos with Santa, festive activities, and fun crafts for kids. Visits to Santa are free, but reservations are required, especially for weekends.
Hours: Check the Bass Pro Shop website for specific hours.
Reservations: Reservations are required and can be made seven days in advance. Visit the Bass Pro Shops website for available slots.
Starting price: $20
6. Photos with Cowboy Santa at Fort Worth Stockyards – Fort Worth
Families can enjoy a unique photo opportunity with Cowboy Santa at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. Think normal Santa Claus but with a Western twist!
Hours: Days and hours vary. Check the Fort Worth Stockyards website.
Reservations: Reservations are not required, but welcome. Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards website.
Starting price: $25
7. Selfies with Santa at Legacy West – Plano
Legacy West has once again transformed into a winter wonderland. Families can reserve a timeslot to take free selfies with Santa Claus! Plus, the mall offers a number of backdrops to choose from for the perfect selfie with Kris Kringle.
Hours: Hours vary. Check the Eventbrite page.
Reservations: Make a reservation via the Eventbrite page.
Starting price: Free
8. Six Flags Over Texas – Arlington
A thrill-seeker’s Christmas experience, Six Flags Over Texas hosts Santa in a holiday-themed area, where guests can enjoy festive rides and attractions. For families who want to combine a visit to Santa with some amusement park fun, this is the place to be.
Hours: Daily, 12 - 9 p.m.
Reservations: Get tickets at the Six Flags website.
Starting price: $59
9. Southlake Town Square – Southlake
Southlake Town Square hosts Santa's Village for just two days! The square is beautifully lit, making it the perfect backdrop for holiday photos.
Hours: Hours vary, see the Visit Southlake website.
Reservations: Not required.
Starting price: Free
10. Frisco Square – Frisco
Frisco Square offers a beautiful, Christmas-y setting for a visit with Santa. Visitors can enjoy holiday lights, an ice skating rink and horse carriage rides. Santa is available for photos on weekends throughout December.
Hours: Friday-Sunday, 6 - 10 p.m.
Reservations: Walk-ins welcome. For more information, visit FriscoSquare.com
Starting price: $15
