More Than Coasters: Why Holiday World Is a Great Family Park

I visited Holiday World in the little town of Santa Claus, Indiana, for the first time last week, expecting to ride some great coasters. However, the park somehow managed to exceed my expectations in ways that I did not expect.

Holiday World boasts a coaster lineup that attracts many coaster enthusiasts and for good reason. From the three highly-regarded wooden coasters to the launched wing coaster Thunderbird to the new Good Gravy! family coaster, there’s not a weak link among them. Each has their own identity and purpose within the park, and they’re all re-rideable.

If you’re a coaster enthusiast or looking for a thrill, The Voyage offers an unbeatable experience. The Legend and the Raven also both pull their own weight, and Thunderbird is my new favorite of the B&M wing coasters. And I can’t forget Good Gravy!, which is by far the cutest family coaster I have ever experienced (yes, I just used the word “cute” when talking about a roller coaster).

Yet, what stuck with me most wasn’t just the coasters. It was how much I found myself imagining a return trip, this time with my whole family.

Holiday World is the kind of place I would’ve adored as a kid. Each section of the park is themed after a different holiday, and wandering from one land to the next feels like stepping into a new celebration. From the music choices to the new themed signs installed this year, the park does a great job of creating distinct atmospheres for each holiday land. It’s whimsical in a way that’s sure to ignite a child’s imagination and rekindle some nostalgia in adults, too.

Additionally, the convenience of free parking, free soft drinks, and free sunscreen for all guests is a game-changer for parents and families. No need to worry about forgetting to pack the sunscreen, just stop at one of the many sunscreen dispensers scattered around the park. The inclusion of free parking and soft drinks with your admission ticket allows families to spend less time stressing about overspending, and more time enjoying their day together.

While we didn’t explore the waterpark, Splashin’ Safari, its reputation speaks volumes, and the glimpses I caught from the top of The Voyage proved that it’s top notch. Even as someone who typically skips waterparks, I found myself wanting to try out some of those slides. It’s easy to see how families could spend an entire day just in the waterpark alone.

As we left Holiday World, my thoughts kept drifting to the future. I have a son who is only 10 months old. Someday, I might watch him light up at the Christmas section, ride the kiddie rides again and again, or snap some pictures with Holidog. Maybe someday we’ll ride Good Gravy! together or even brave one of the bigger coasters. Very few parks leave me feeling this way, especially not ones that are a nine hour drive away for this Coaster101 writer, but Holiday World did. It’s not just a park for thrill-seekers; it’s a place for families to enjoy together.

Whether you’re just there for the coasters or visiting with your family, Holiday World is a destination that delivers.

Have you planned a family trip to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.