On Christmas Eve before setting out the milk and cookies, we took a drive south on I-35 to experience Santa’s Ranch.
Santa’s Ranch is located one exit south of the San Marcos outlet malls, so it’s a pretty quick drive from Austin.
We got there early and parked in line on the service road outside the Ranch. By the time the gate opened, there was a long line of vehicles behind us, waiting to get in.
For the $22 per vehicle admission, we got a huge treat! We drove through nearly a mile of dirt road, past countless Christmas light scenes that were entertaining and imaginative. Believe it or not, there are over one million Christmas lights displayed in over 100 scenes and animations!
This huge space shuttle really caught our eye
Santa’s Ranch is open from the beginning of November until a few days after Christmas (check site for exact dates each year). Hours are 6-10 PM, Sunday-Thursday, and 6-11 PM on Friday and Saturday.
The Sphinx of Egypt in lights
This is a wonderful Christmas-y outing to experience with your date or the whole family. The 10 and 14 year olds in the backseat seemed to enjoy it as much as we did! And perhaps the nicest part is that Winter cold and drizzle aren’t reasons to stay home, since you get to drive through in your vehicle.
Santa playing basketball – the basketball moves!
UPDATE: Cost for 2013 is $28 per vehicle.