Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari Acquires Santa’s Cottages, Enters Lodging Business

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, America’s first theme park, has announced its acquisition of Santa’s Cottages, a popular lakeside lodging destination in Santa Claus, Indiana. The purchase marks the first business acquisition in the park’s 79-year history.

Santa’s Cottages, situated on 23 scenic acres, offers walking trails, lakes, playgrounds, and a pool. The resort features a variety of cottages, including fully furnished units with kitchens, fire pits, and spacious outdoor gathering areas. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as catch-and-release fishing, playgrounds, hammocks, a basketball court, and a pool with a splash pad.

“We’re so excited to officially be in the lodging business, and this is only the beginning,” said Leah Koch-Blumhardt, fourth-generation owner and director of communications at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari. “Holiday World has always been a destination for families from across the Midwest, but it amazes us how many families come from nearby cities, such as St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Nashville, and make it a single-day trip. As we grow into lodging, we hope more families will choose our parks as a multi-day destination.”

Lauren Crosby, fourth-generation owner and director of entertainment and events at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, expressed admiration for Santa’s Cottages and its founders. “Santa’s Cottages is a business our family has always admired,” Crosby said. “Pat and Brenda Arnold built a beautiful resort, a few cabins at a time, after their successful real estate careers. Much like my great-grandfather, Louis J. Koch, who started Santa Claus Land in 1946 after retiring from his family’s tin business, the Arnolds had an indisputable entrepreneurial spirit. We’re honored to carry on that tradition.”

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari recently announced that 2025 will mark its longest season in recent history. The park will open to select Season Passholders on May 3 and to the public on May 10. Splashin’ Safari will follow on May 17, with both parks operating daily beginning May 23. Signature events, including Holidays in the Sky, Friday Night Live!, and Happy Halloween Weekends, will also return.

Guests are encouraged to visit the Santa’s Cottages website and social media channels for operational updates and special off-season deals as the 2025 season approaches.

Located conveniently near major cities such as Louisville, Indianapolis, Nashville, St. Louis, and Cincinnati, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is well worth the trip.

Theme Parks By Don