When we visited ICE! last year, I knew we needed to pack our hats and gloves because the attraction is 8 degrees inside. If you don’t think that’s cold… it’s COLD!After you present your tickets and walk into a room to watch a quick video on the history of ICE! Make sure you pay attention to this year’s video – there’s a nice surprise at the end!
After watching the video, you are led into another room where everyone is given a heavy coat (or parka) to put on. We put these blue parkas on top of the coats we were already wearing, and trust me when I say they are both needed. This is in addition to the gloves, hats and scarves. I saw one lady put her baby inside of her coat for added warmth… it only gets colder as you approach the entrance!
This year, the theme of ICE! is Frosty the Snowman! With opportunities for great pictures around each corner, there’s no need to rush through the display. In fact, I could just sit in awe of the magnificence. I need not even wonder how long it takes to carve one Frosty, more or less three or four of them!
I was glad to see the ice slides again this year because it was my favorite part last year, as well. I love the offering of a shorter child’s slide, which is perfect for my youngest son who isn’t quite sure about the bigger slides.
I also loved the addition of an Ice Bar, where guests can enjoy a drink chilled in the 8 degree temperatures! Guests can buy tickets to the ice bar before entering the ICE! display – ask about them at Will Call!
During our visit, we were able to see someone carving ice sculptures on our way out! This was a big treat for my older children and these guys sure do deserve a round of applause. Very well done!
Before exiting, the amazing (and final) ice sculpture tells the story of Jesus’ birth. This is the part my 5 year old couldn’t wait to see, and asked if our family picture could be taken in front of the scene.
Ice! is not only impressive, it’s absolutely beautiful in every way. It’s definitely on my list of “must do” for Christmas in Texas.
Note: Hot chocolate, along with other tasty snacks, is available for purchase once you exit the exhibit. The gift shop also sells gloves, hats, scarves, t-shirts, etc.