There’s an Actual Town Named Santa Claus in the U.S. — and It’s Just as Merry as You’d Imagine

Welcome to Santa Claus, Indiana: a real town that celebrates the spirit of Christmas all year round. This cheerful community is filled with holiday fun every day of the year, offering a variety of Christmas-themed attractions to enjoy, even during the summer heat.

The town’s whimsical history goes back to the 19th century when its original name proposal was turned down, leading the community to choose ‘Santa Claus’ instead. The first attraction, Santa’s Candy Castle, opened its doors in the 1930s — and that’s how the magic began. 

The crown jewel of Santa Claus is Holiday World, a theme park featuring areas dedicated to various holidays, a water park, and the most impressive array of roller coasters in the region. This charming town also boasts an official Santa Claus post office that receives thousands of letters addressed to Father Christmas from around the world each year.

But it’s not just about the fun. Visitors can also follow in the footsteps of President Abraham Lincoln and enjoy the natural beauty of Lincoln State Park alongside holiday-themed activities. 

Here’s everything you need to know before embarking on your visit to Santa Claus, Indiana. 

Accommodations in Santa Claus

In Santa Claus, you'll find a variety of accommodation options, including quirky themed hotels like Santa’s Lodge, cozy one- and two-bedroom cottages at Santa’s Lakeside Cottages, campsites and cabins at Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph, and spacious vacation rentals such as Mistletoe Manor.

Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari

A favorite attraction for many is Holiday World, a theme park that first opened as Santa Claus Land in the 1940s. Over the years, it has expanded beyond its original Christmas theme to celebrate other holidays, including Halloween, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving. This family-run park boasts a fantastic selection of award-winning roller coasters while retaining its charming small-town atmosphere. With fewer crowds, budget-friendly prices, and welcoming staff, it’s an ideal destination for family outings. 

For adrenaline junkies, The Voyage, a high-speed wooden roller coaster, is an absolute must-ride. In the summer, don’t miss Cheetah Chase, the world’s first launched water coaster, at Splashin’ Safari. The fun continues with delicious treats, including the park’s famous blue ice cream (a Midwestern favorite) and a variety of holiday-themed snacks. Holiday World generally operates from May to October; be sure to check the theme park’s website for specific dates. 

Additional Activities

Lincoln State Park

Lincoln State Park is a serene retreat encompassing over 2,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes featuring trails, campsites, boat rentals, and picnic spots by Lake Lincoln. Make sure to visit the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, the historic site where Abraham Lincoln spent 14 years of his childhood with his family.

Santa’s Candy Castle

Established in 1935, Santa’s Candy Castle is an essential stop when exploring Santa Claus. This delightful shop features an astonishing array of candies, including vintage and rare sweets, along with homemade treats. It’s particularly famous for its unique frozen hot chocolate, perfectly matching the town’s festive theme.

Santa Claus Museum & Village

Kick off your holiday adventure at the Santa Claus Museum & Village. Here, you’ll find the historic 1880 Santa Claus Church, a towering 22-foot-tall Santa statue from 1935, and the original Santa Claus Post Office. Discover the town’s rich history through unique exhibits and artifacts, and be sure to write a letter to jolly Saint Nick during your visit.  

Christmas Lake Golf Club

This par 72 course offers a refreshing escape from nearby attractions, complete with an on-site restaurant, a full driving range, a putting green, and a pro shop for your convenience.

Dining and Nightlife

Plymouth Rock Cafe

Savor Thanksgiving dinner throughout the season at this festive restaurant located within Holiday World. This casual quick-service spot serves up holiday favorites like juicy turkey, flavorful mashed potatoes, and all the traditional sides. It also features a delightful array of homestyle dishes, including BBQ beef brisket and pulled pork, ensuring a hearty and satisfying meal.

Santa Claus Brewing Co.

As one of the latest additions to Santa Claus, located just across from Holiday World, this brewery offers a constantly changing selection of craft beers made on-site in their taproom. In addition to the brews, the brewery features a menu of pub classics, such as wings, burgers, and their unique take on pretzel bites, called reindeer balls.

Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery

Situated just minutes from Santa Claus and part of the Hoosier Wine Trail, Monkey Hollow is a family-owned winery and distillery. During the summer, the venue opens its grill for delightful outdoor dining, complete with stunning views of the region's lush, rolling hills.

Optimal Visiting Times

With abundant outdoor activities, including the state park and Holiday World, summer is a perfect time for a visit. Those coming in summer can also enjoy seasonal events such as movies at the drive-in, outdoor fairs, and special fireworks displays.

Naturally, Santa Claus is a favored spot during the holiday season. The Santa Claus Christmas Celebration occurs on the first three weekends in December, featuring festive activities like drive-thru light displays, shopping opportunities, chestnut roasting, meet-and-greets with Santa, and the Santa Claus Christmas Parade. 

Getting There

With its close proximity to major cities like Chicago, Louisville, and Cincinnati, it’s a popular road trip destination for families in the Midwest. Evansville Regional Airport is located just under 50 miles to the west, while Louisville International Airport is about 80 miles to the east. If you choose to fly, renting a car is advisable for convenient travel around the area.