PTN’s Brianna Strunk and her son went along for a magical ride, which runs nightly now through New Years Eve.

“Large trees are lit to the beauty of Christmas lights, plus a few scenes here and there with reindeer and snowmen. The tour takes you through the Christmas Trail where you’ll get some insight from the narrator and sing Christmas carols,” explained Rob Howell, general manager.

The Tram Tour takes place on the golf island, which is not normally accessible this time of year. For nearly 100 years, the Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort put up and took down a wooden bridge after every season, but this year, a permanent bridge was erected, allowing year-round access.

“On the island is our golf course, 23 of 27 holes. Santa’s Workshop is the Halfway House where you can sip on hot chocolate and other beverages, and have some snacks while visiting Santa,” Howell said.

This is not the first time Shawnee has offered tram rides. “When music legend Fred Waring owned the property, he had a Shawnee Tram, as he called it. He brought guests to the island for lunch at the Halfway House and drove them around as part of the experience. We’re hoping to also have other tours throughout the year, whether it’s a haunted tour or historic tour.”

The new electric tram is heated. The rides coincide with special dinners in the River Room as well as a Holiday Market in the main lobby beginning December 6, 2023. It’s also a great opportunity to see the ‘Creches from Around the World’ display, featuring over 100 donated and borrowed manger scenes.

“We started this Tram Tour because we’re a family resort and believe in families coming together. We’re hoping this can be a new tradition for families to come here, enjoy the holidays with us, see Santa’s Workshop, and just take part in the magic we all enjoy here at Shawnee,” Howell explained.

You don’t have to be a guest at The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort to experience the Tram Tour, but reservations are strongly encouraged. Visit ShawneeInn.com to book your spot.