Rev up your sleigh and visit Santa!
Where can you find Santa year-round, rides, magic shows, and so much more? Cascade, Colorado, of course!
Since 1956, this Christmas-themed family amusement park has been putting the ho-ho-ho in the holidays and beyond for visitors from across the world. It's like taking a step into Santa's workshop, complete with toy and gift shops, holiday music filling the air, entertainment, and even an ice-covered "north pole" that never melts!
In addition, there are more than 25 rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, zip line, and sky ride, to keep the whole family entertained. And, of course, you don't want to miss the main attraction: a visit with the jolly old elf himself.
Courtesy of the North Pole
The attraction was built on the slopes of Pikes Peak, just outside of Colorado Springs, and was designed to be identical to a village built in Lake Placid, NY. The original village was designed after an eight-year-old girl's vision of Santa Claus' home. A village of 12 alpine buildings was in the plans to be constructed, and as the park has grown and changed over the years, its charm and magic just gets better and better.
It's a particularly festive place to take the family during the winter holiday season. It's even open to 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve, so you can visit with jolly old St. Nick before he heads out for his busy night. Please note, this time of year, the North Pole is pretty busy, so the park has compiled these tips to help you out if you choose to visit (via Facebook):
- Come early for parking - the park is first-come and first-served and can run out of spaces over the holidays and nice weather weekends!
- See Santa first! He is very busy this time of year.
- If you want to avoid waiting for food in the restaurants you can always bring your own and picnic in the park!
- If the weather looks bad, check out the attraction's Facebook page, or call 719-684-9432, for any important information about weather delays or closed days.
What: North Pole & Santa's Workshop
Where: 5050 Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade
When: Thursday–Monday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (weather permitting); Closed Tuesday and Wednesday, check the website for the schedule
More info
Check out the park (in the summer) on the video below, Courtesy of North Pole (YouTube):
