Winter in Colorado Springs has a way of shifting our perspective. The Rockies settle into their snowy silhouette, the air grows crisp and a sense of anticipation hangs over the Front Range. At Hotel Polaris, we embrace that feeling by looking forward to experiences that inspire curiosity, connection and joy. This year, that spirit takes flight with the inaugural Wings of Winter celebration, honoring the 70-year legacy of one of the world’s most beloved traditions: the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Santa Tracker.
This holiday season, we invite families to expand their horizons, learn something new and take part in the magic of the story. If you are planning holiday travel, a winter getaway or a family-friendly Christmas in Colorado Springs, here is why Hotel Polaris stands at the center of the season.
A Celebration Inspired by the Academy’s Holiday Legacy
Just minutes from NORAD headquarters, Hotel Polaris is uniquely connected to the iconic Santa Tracker story. In 1955, a misprinted Sears newspaper ad directed children to call Santa, yet the number led instead to the Continental Air Defense Command. Rather than disappointing the callers, a watch commander answered the phone with warmth and holiday spirit, offering updates on Santa’s location. A global tradition was born, one that continues today through the NORAD Santa Tracker.
Flights with Santa: Take the Pilot’s Seat
Wings of Winter carries out the legacy through immersive experiences that blend aviation, imagination and the Colorado spirit. Every Sunday in December from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., guests aged twelve and older can step into the role of pilot aboard our 737 Max flight simulator, the only one of its kind inside a hotel in the United States. With Santa in the co-pilot’s seat, families will “fly” to Rovaniemi Airport in Finland, the Official Airport of Santa Claus. The 15-minute experience includes:
- A guided winter-wonderland approach with Santa
- A photo with Mr. Claus
- Complimentary hot chocolate
- First-come, first-served access for $15 per guest
This activation is quintessentially Hotel Polaris: adventurous, educational and awe-inspiring.
Operation Elf: A Season-Long Encounter with Holiday Cheer
Throughout November and December, Operation Elf brings Santa and his elves directly into the hotel for spontaneous moments of delight. Families who want to extend the experience can book the Operation Elf Package, which includes:
- Elf turndown service
- Cookies and milk
- A complimentary copy of Operation Santa Claus: How NORAD Saved Santa
Ideal for families seeking a joyful, story-rich stay that honors the connection to the Santa Tracker, this package creates a sense of wonder that lingers long after checkout.
Cocoa Command at Doolies: Refuel, Relearn, Recharge
From Nov. 28–Dec. 28, Thursday through Sunday, Doolies transforms into Cocoa Command, an imaginative nod to the fueling stations that keep aircraft soaring. Between 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., guests can enjoy:
- A build-your-own hot cocoa bar
- A kids’ “cocoa lab”
- Spirited sips for adults
This warming stop is a family favorite, inviting guests to relax, create and enjoy a taste of winter in Colorado Springs.
Holiday Tea on the Horizon: A Classic with an Aviation Twist
Beginning Nov. 25, Holiday Tea on the Horizon takes place in Aviator, Tuesday through Thursday, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (excluding Thanksgiving Day). Guests will enjoy:
- Specialty holiday and aviation-themed sweets
- Seasonal sandwiches
- Tea service designed for adults and children
- Copies of Operation Santa Claus for young guests
It’s a refined moment that blends tradition with a forward-looking spirit.
Santa Hotline: A Call Straight to the North Pole
Starting Dec. 1, children of all ages can pick up the classic red phone in the lobby and connect directly with Santa, Mrs. Claus and/or the elves. This Santa Hotline pays homage to the original 1955 phone call that sparked the Santa Tracker tradition, an invitation to curiosity, connection and discovery.
NORAD Santa Tracker Viewing Party: Christmas Eve Command Center
On December 24, Hotel Polaris becomes a festive command hub, broadcasting the NORAD Santa Tracker on screens throughout the hotel. Families can gather together to watch Santa’s global journey unfold in real time, a meaningful celebration of this cherished tradition.
Thanksgiving and Christmas Day Buffets at Pamela’s
Seasonal dining at Pamela’s elevates every holiday gathering. Guests can enjoy:
- A Thanksgiving buffet
- A Christmas Day brunch buffet from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Evening dinner specials and dessert cocktails at Aviator
Weekly Activations: Explore Something Bigger Than Yourself
Throughout Wings of Winter, families can participate in rotating experiences such as:
- Aviation-themed cookie decorating
- S’mores and firepits on the Flat Iron Terrace
- Outdoor and indoor activities inspired by the Colorado spirit
These moments embody our belief that every guest should feel part of something bigger, connected to the mountains and to the wonder of the season.
Toys for Tots Donation Site: Giving with Heart First
Hotel Polaris is an official drop-off location for Toys for Tots, and visitors receive a complimentary hot chocolate for each toy donated. It’s a meaningful way to extend the generosity of the season and share the Colorado Springs community spirit.
Planning Your Holiday Stay
Rooms begin at $109 per night during the celebration. Whether you’re joining us for a single activation or planning a full holiday getaway, your stay at Hotel Polaris opens the door to experiences that connect past, present, and future, guided by the North Star above us.
Where Wonder Soars
In addition to the discounted rates above, we are celebrating the season with more ways to save. Where Winter Soars allows guests to further enjoy the gift of savings with their third night free. Book two nights and receive the next one on us.
Experience Holiday Magic, Elevated by the Colorado Spirit
This winter, let your family follow its own flight path. Explore, learn, and celebrate through a season of activations designed to spark curiosity and forge unforgettable memories.
Experience something bigger than yourself. Stay and be inspired.
To learn more or book your stay, visit thehotelpolaris.com.