Santa’s Land in Cherokee, N.C., is a throwback of the best kind. The small family-owned amusement park has featured kids’ rides, animal shows, carnival games and several shops and eateries since it opened in 1966. The Christmas-themed park evokes all the joys of the holiday – only you can’t enjoy them during the holidays.
Santa’s Land is open from May through the end of October, when the weather is perfect for families to take advantage of the outdoor activities.
Sweetums and I visited on one of our summertime mountain excursions but, being a bit large for the kiddie rides, we didn’t pay admission to go inside the park. Instead we perused the Christmas gift shop and, of course, the candy shop. (Yes, I left with some homemade fudge. Did you think I wouldn’t?)
While I can’t advise you on taking kids to the park, some online reviews say it is fun for smaller kids. Be sure to check out reviews before going.
From the parking lot, we could see children riding the Rudicoaster, in which kids ride in “reindeer” cars. Families can also visit with Santa during its operating season and even earn “good conduct diplomas” to prove to Santa they deserve to be on the “nice” list.
For information, visit the website here or call 828-497-9191. Check out a few of our photos below.







