Growing up in rural Southern Indiana, there was always one annual summer destination that I took for granted.  It wasn't until years later that I became aware how highly acclaimed and coveted my family's trip really was.  The destination of which I speak of is none other than the small theme park, Holiday World and Splashin' Safari.

This theme park now lays claim to three of the top wooden coasters on the planet (The Voyage having been rated #1 for several years now), both the longest dry and water coasters in the world, has been ranked the #1 cleanest and friendliest amusement park in the world for several years consecutively, and with Amusement Today took away 6 Golden Ticket awards just last year (but who's counting).  Along with all of this, this humble little theme park offers to it's patrons FREE parking, FREE sunscreen, and amazingly FREE soft drinks.  And the things you do have to pay for like admission (under $40/1 day admission), food (aprox $7.50 for a 1/4 lb. hamburger, fries, and a cookie), and potentially a locker rental ($5) are still not outrageous like you'd find at any other park.  

The biggest thing about this park though, is not all the awards nor the low prices you find when you get there, it's the atmosphere.  Holiday World is a family park in every aspect of the term.  It's a family run park, and on just about any given day at least one member of the Koch family can be found running sound or dancing in their live shows, cleaning tables, running a ride, or greeting people at the front gate.  And every part of the park is designed for the entertainment of both child and adult alike.  

So, if you live in the midwest, or even if you don't, you should definitely make the trip to Santa Claus, IN.  Visit in May or June for smaller crowds and shorter lines.  This will be a trip to the park your family won't soon forget!