Santa Claus, Indiana had a resident population of just 2,300 people in 2009, a deceiving statistic considering that tens of thousands more travel there every year to enjoy numerous family-oriented attractions that capitalize on the popularity of the town's namesake. For vacationers looking to imbibe the Christmas spirit at any time of year, the town of Santa Claus is certainly the place to be.
Holiday World and Splashin' Safari
Holiday World, established in 1946, is a 100 percent smoke-free amusement park located at the junction of Highways 245 and 162. Visitors can enjoy four different roller coasters, bumper cars, carousels, an antique audubon and a giant playground called Holidog's Treehouse. In addition, Splashin' Safari is home to the world's longest water-coaster at one-third of a mile, while other wet rides include two wave pools and a rapids river. Several reindeer-themed rides are designed for the youngest guests, and live country Western shows are held throughout the warm weather months. Children under the age of three are admitted free to the park.
Christmas Lake Golf Course
The Christmas Lake Golf Course offers four sets of teeing locations at all 18 holes, with 7,191 yards of play from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course, opened in 1968, features a design by Edmund B. Ault with tree-lined Zoysia grass fairways and undulating bent grass greens. The front nine is fairly flat and open, while the back nine is hilly with more obstacles and challenges. On-site facilities include a driving range, putting green, clubhouse restaurant, swimming pool and fully equipped pro shop. Golf Digest Magazine listed Christmas Lake as one of the top 75 public courses in America, while Indiana Business Magazine rated it 7th most difficult in the state.
Frosty's Fun Center
Frosty's Fun Center is a seasonal summertime attraction located at Santa's Lodge, boasting a high-tech video game arcade, 18-hole Christmas-themed miniature golf course, and fun food options like pizza, sandwiches and ice cream. The signature site on the golf course is a 9-foot Frosty the Snowman statue that appears to be melting into a running stream. Additionally, Santa's Lodge conveniently offers 170 tastefully decorated guest rooms and suites, many with microwaves, fridges and whirlpools. The property also has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool.
Santa Claus Museum
The Santa Claus Museum opened in 2006, walks guests through a visual history of the town starting with its inception in 1846. Exhibits include historical documents, photographs and rare artifacts showcasing the town's emergence as a popular holiday-style tourist destination. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, little ones can also write a letter to Santa in the elves' workshop next to a historic Santa statue. The museum's gift shop sells nostalgic Santa Claus figurines and Christmas souvenirs. Admission is free for everyone, although donations are appreciated. Doors are closed on Mondays.
Santa's Candy Castle
Santa's Candy Castle is a historic, red brick structure nestled a mile south of Holiday World. Kids can log onto the North Pole network to chat with an elf and tell Santa what gifts they want. The property also sports vintage kinetic machines, a wide selection of gourmet confections and a gift shop with over 200 Christmas books for sale. Seasonal events include Christmas woodcarving demonstrations, story time with Santa and chestnut-roasting on an open fire. Parents can even arrange for Santa to send their kids a personalized letter. Admission to the Castle is free for all.
Santa's Stables
Santa's Stables is located about four miles south of Santa Claus in the town of Lamar. Guests are treated to a family-friendly horseback riding adventure, lead by experienced guides, through charming woodland trails. Anywhere from one to seven guests usually ride with one guide. Both a 15- and 45-minute trail riding option are available, and there is no minimum age requirement. The youngest children can feed and ride Peaches the Pony. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Tips are appreciated.
Mark Heidelberger - Mark Heidelberger has been writing for over 17 years, with recent articles appearing on web sites such as eHow, Trails and Golflink. He ...
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