Dreamland Escapes — Attraction in Grifton

If you're not already in the holiday spirit, buckle up (or hop on the hayride/train) because Dreamland Escapes on Hwy 903 in Ayden, NC will take you there—and then some! This is not just a holiday outing; it's a full-blown Christmas EXTRAVAGANZA!

From the moment we arrived, it was like stepping into a Hallmark movie... but with better snacks and less predictable plot twists. The Christmas light hayride/train ride was an absolute masterpiece. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and music so jolly even the Grinch couldn't help but groove. Speaking of the Grinch—yes, the big green guy is there! And let me tell you, he was hilarious. His heart has definitely grown three sizes, but his comedic timing? Still on point!

The stop to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus? Pure magic. Santa was the picture-perfect jolly old elf, and Mrs. Claus served up so much charm I almost asked her for her cookie recipe. The photo op was a hit, and my cheeks still hurt from smiling.

Then came the maze to Bethlehem—absolutely enchanting and the perfect way to reflect on the reason for the season. Dreamland Escapes somehow blends festive fun with heartfelt moments, and they nailed it.

But wait, it gets better. Hot chocolate by a warm fire? Roasting marshmallows for s’mores? Somebody pinch me; I thought I’d stumbled into the North Pole. My s'mores-making skills might need work, but who cares when you're surrounded by such joy and laughter?

The night wrapped up with even more lights and decorations that left us in awe. By the time we stepped off the ride, my heart was overflowing with Christmas cheer—and possibly marshmallow fluff.

Dreamland Escapes isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a memory factory. Whether you’re 5 or 95, this Winter Wonderland will leave you grinning like a kid on Christmas morning. So grab your family, your friends, and your ugliest Christmas sweater, and prepare for a night of magic, laughter, and enough holiday cheer to carry you straight through...

I will start with I'm slightly partial...my son works there and did all the Christmas lights.

I went the week of Thanksgiving on one of their first nights of this year. After owning a retail store for many years, I am more likely to procrastinate on my decorating. It was the ideal place to get me in the Christmas spirit!

We had to get pushed by some "elves" so I included that video. The hot chocolate girls and the s'mores were so much fun!

You ride a train or a tractor ride to the forest where you can see Santa, and some more lights, Hot chocolate and s'mores. They take you back to starting point at your leisure.

I also appreciated the Christian values and the remembrance of the real reason for the Season! Kiddos to Dewayne, his wife and all the kids working. It's a...

Very family oriented! They even accommodate the Lil first timers or the ones not so excited to be scared. That was definitely a plus for us, being it was my three kids first time at any haunted attraction. Super friendly staff, no standing in a huge long line of waiting, you go in groups. You have a personal tour guide throughout the whole trail. Watch out, things aren't always what they seem, especially in a haunted forest, near Halloween time! My three children and I had a blast Thank you Dreamland! Will go back for...