Holiday World

Located in Santa Claus, Indiana, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is a unique theme park known for its family-friendly atmosphere, themed holiday sections, and world-class water park. Opened in 1946 as Santa Claus Land, the park was the first theme park in the United States and has since grown to offer a diverse range of attractions, thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and one of the best water parks in the country. What sets Holiday World apart is its dedication to hospitality, including free soft drinks, sunscreen, and parking, creating an experience that families have cherished for generations.

History and Evolution

Originally opened by Louis J. Koch as Santa Claus Land, the park was initially themed entirely around Christmas and offered simple attractions such as a toy shop and children's rides. In 1984, it was renamed Holiday World to incorporate sections dedicated to other holidays, including Halloween, Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving. The park has continued to evolve and expand, particularly with the addition of Splashin’ Safari, a water park that debuted in 1993 and has since grown into one of the largest water parks in the Midwest. Today, Holiday World is known for its innovative rides, family-oriented focus, and maintaining a blend of nostalgia and modern thrills.

Themed Sections

Holiday World is divided into four main holiday-themed sections:

1. Christmas: As the original heart of the park, this section still features a festive atmosphere with twinkling lights, a Christmas tree, and holiday music. Key attractions include the "Holidog Express" train ride and family-friendly play areas.
2. Halloween: Halloween takes on a whimsical twist with classic spooky themes that aren't too frightening for younger children. Notable rides include "The Raven," a world-renowned wooden roller coaster, and the thrilling "Legend."
3. Fourth of July: This patriotic section is packed with red, white, and blue decorations and celebrates American history. Favorite attractions include the "Liberty Launch," a space shot tower, and a variety of games and food stands.
4. Thanksgiving: A relatively newer addition, Thanksgiving embraces the fall harvest with a charming rural theme. The highlight here is "The Voyage," a towering wooden roller coaster that regularly ranks among the top coasters in the world for its record-breaking length and airtime.

Splashin’ Safari

Adjacent to Holiday World is Splashin’ Safari, a massive water park that consistently ranks as one of the best in the United States. Featuring thrilling water coasters like "Wildebeest" and "Mammoth" — both recognized as some of the longest water coasters globally — Splashin’ Safari is a must-visit for water enthusiasts. The park also offers a variety of wave pools, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly splash areas. The attention to detail and safety, combined with free sunscreen and life jackets, makes it ideal for a family outing.

Rides and Attractions

Holiday World offers a mix of roller coasters, family rides, and kiddie attractions:

• The Voyage: This colossal wooden coaster features steep drops, intense airtime, and a thrilling journey through a dense forest. It's often considered one of the best wooden coasters in the world.
• The Raven: A fan-favorite wooden coaster known for its speed, abrupt turns, and a layout that hugs the terrain, The Raven is a classic that appeals to coaster enthusiasts.
• Thunderbird: A launched wing coaster, Thunderbird is the park’s first steel coaster. Riders experience an exhilarating launch, inversions, and a smooth flight-like experience.
• Wildebeest & Mammoth: These two water coasters set the standard for water rides, offering fast-paced drops, twists, and uphill launches on rafts.

Entertainment and Shows

Holiday World offers a variety of live entertainment, from musical shows to character meet-and-greets. Popular shows include "Holidog & Friends," which entertains younger children, and "Santa’s Storytime," where Santa himself reads classic Christmas tales. Seasonal shows during Halloween and Christmas keep the park lively throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something new for guests to enjoy.

Dining and Amenities

Each holiday-themed section has restaurants and snack stands that align with the theme. From classic American fare in the Fourth of July section to turkey legs and pumpkin pie in the Thanksgiving area, the food offerings are varied and designed to complement the park’s unique style. A standout feature is the park’s policy of providing free soft drinks, a benefit rarely seen at amusement parks. There are also multiple shaded seating areas, stroller rentals, and nursing stations, ensuring families have a comfortable visit.

Awards and Recognition

Holiday World has received numerous awards over the years, particularly for its roller coasters and customer service. “The Voyage” consistently appears on top ten lists of wooden coasters, and the park’s focus on cleanliness, hospitality, and value has earned it acclaim as one of the best family-friendly parks in the United States.

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is more than just a theme park; it’s a destination that celebrates the joy of family fun, thrilling rides, and holiday nostalgia. With its emphasis on customer service, free amenities, and a perfect balance of classic and modern attractions, it’s a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you're looking for heart-pounding coasters, a day of water park excitement, or a charming holiday-themed adventure, Holiday World offers something for everyone, making it a truly special place to create lasting memories.