SANTA CLAUS – Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, a popular amusement and water park about 80 miles from Louisville, has been named among the best theme parks in the country.
U.S. News & World Report listed Santa Claus, Indiana attraction on its February “The 17 Top Amusement Parks in the U.S. for 2023,” citing its appeal to “thrifty travelers.” Visitors receive complimentary sunscreen, soft drinks, on-property Wi-Fi, and parking, and admission also includes access to both parks.
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is known for the Thunderbird steel roller coaster, which “launches riders from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds,” according to the park’s website.
The Cheetah Chase water coaster is a popular ride as well (be warned, the park says you’ll be “soaked” on the ride), and Holiday World is also home to Mammoth, the world’s longest water coaster at 1,763 feet.
Holiday World is open periodically from May to mid-September and welcomes guests daily in June and July. Its 2023 schedule is listed online for travelers who want to plan ahead.
Tickets start at $70 for a one-day pass and $85 for a two-day flex ticket that allows attendees to enter Holiday World twice within a seven-day period. Season passes start at $135.
Opening day this year is May 6 for season pass holders and May 20 for the general public, according to its online calendar.
