Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for me to start planning my visits at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana. With the park now open daily, there’s no better time to dive into all the fun and excitement that awaits. 

From thrilling new rides to relaxing water attractions, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari has something for everyone. Here’s why I’m particularly excited for this season.

Good Gravy!

One of the biggest highlights this year is the park’s brand-new family coaster, Good Gravy! This attraction opened earlier this spring and has already become a hit. 

As a family boomerang roller coaster, Good Gravy! offers a unique experience, taking riders on a thrilling journey through a giant cranberry sauce can and up a 72-foot spike, only to repeat the whole ride backwards. The whimsical design, including a train shaped like a giant gravy boat, adds a fun twist to the adventure. 

I can’t wait to experience it with my family and see the joy on everyone’s faces as we ride together.

World-Class Coasters and Water Fun

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is home to some of the best wooden coasters in the country. The Voyage, The Legend, and Raven are must-rides for any thrill-seeker. The Voyage, recently ranked in the top 10 roller coasters in the nation by USA Today, is particularly noteworthy for its exhilarating drops, turns, and abundance of airtime. 

For a change of pace, the water park offers a fantastic selection of attractions, including the world-class water coasters and a relaxing lazy river. Splashin’ Safari has been named a top Outdoor Water Park by USA Today, and it’s easy to see why. 

Whether you’re in the mood for adrenaline-pumping slides or a leisurely float, there’s always something to enjoy.

Immersive Theming and Attention to Detail

One of the things that sets Holiday World apart is its immersive theming. The park is divided into four holiday-themed sections: Christmas, Halloween, Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving. 

Good Gravy! is part of the Thanksgiving section, which also features the Plymouth Rock Café serving Thanksgiving dinner every day, the Turkey Whirl tilt-a-whirl ride, and the Mayflower swinging ship. 

The attention to detail in the theming is impressive. The queue for Good Gravy! takes you through Grandma Gracy’s house, frozen in time from 1965. From a Sears catalog in the living room to sheet music for “Over the River and Through the Woods” on the piano, every little detail has been thoughtfully selected to enhance the experience.

New Additions and Events

This year, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is introducing an all-new drone show, Holidays in the Sky, featuring 500 drones. Running nightly from June 22 through August 4, weather permitting, this show promises to be a spectacular addition to the park’s evening entertainment. 

The park also has special events planned throughout the season. Kids World runs weekends from August 17 through September 15, offering family-friendly activities and entertainment. And for those who love Halloween, the Happy Halloween Weekends from September 21 through October 27 are a must-visit, with festive decorations, themed rides, and spooky fun for all ages.

Practical Perks

Aside from the rides and attractions, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari offers excellent value with two parks for one price, free unlimited soft drinks, sunscreen, and parking. It’s no wonder the park was named one of the top family-owned amusement parks in the nation by Newsweek and consistently ranks as a top-value destination.

With so much to look forward to, I can’t wait to make the most of my visits to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari this season. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a water lover, or just looking for a fun family day out, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari truly has it all. 

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is conveniently located within 180 miles of cities like Louisville, Indianapolis, Nashville, and Cincinnati, making it an accessible and exciting destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. So, start planning your summer adventure today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Visit holidayworld.com for tickets, season passes, lodging packages, and the full operating calendar. 

See you at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari! 

Required reading 

• What’s New in 2024 at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari 
• My First Taste of Good Gravy! at Holiday World