Holiday World Reviews and Guide

Family-run Holiday World has developed into one of the most successful regional theme parks in the US, offering a variety of guest perks such as unlimited free soft drinks, free parking, free sunscreen and free Wi-Fi. The park is divided into four lands, each themed around a different holiday. Understandably, given that the park is located in Santa Claus, Indiana, one of these is Christmas, with the others being Thanksgiving, Halloween and the Fourth of July. The park's three wooden roller coasters - The Raven, The Legend and the Voyage - are held in high regard by enthusiasts, while the Splashin' Safari water park (included with admission) hosts the world's two longest water coasters, Wildebeest and Mammoth.

History: Originally known as Santa Claus Land, the park was opened by retiree Louis J. Koch in 1946 in order to appeal to visitors to Santa Claus, Indiana that were hoping to meet the man himself. The park gradually expanded under the supervision of Louis' son Bill, adding a variety of minor attractions and dining outlets. New lands were added in 1984, when the park was renamed to Holiday World. The most spectacular growth phase came under Will Koch, Bill's son, who added three major wooden coasters and the Splashin' Safari water park during his tenure. Sadly, Will died suddenly in 2010, but younger brother Dan took over as Park President. Recent years have seen a heavy focus on the water park, with huge sums being spent on the Wildebeest and Mammoth water coasters.