For those who are already hopelessly in love with the mountains of North Carolina, it may come as no surprise that Santa’s summer home is right here in the Great Smoky Mountains. In fact, you can visit him all summer long at his theme park: Santa’s Land in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Santa's Land Fun Park & Zoo is found right on U.S. 19 about four miles to the east of Cherokee. With so much to see and do in the Cherokee, North Carolina area, don't forget to add Santa's Land to your agenda in the summer or fall.
Google Maps
The kids will have a blast here! And so will you! But here's the kicker: It's only open from May through November. Santa has other obligations during the rest of the year. So if you've ever really wanted to celebrate Christmas in July, then here's your chance (or also in May, June, August, September, October, and part of November).
TripAdvisor/Hannah R
Behind the Santatown facade that faces U.S. 19, you'll find a whimsical world of fun. Attention is paid to every little detail and there are scores of photos just waiting to be captured.
Google/Tammi Jaskulski
And the fun is never-ending. Not only can you meet Santa here, but you'll also get to explore a petting zoo.
Google/Tami Watson
As well as ride the rides as long and as many times as you'd like.
Google/Exploring the Explored.

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Even the world-famous Rudicoaster!
Google/John Christian Abrahamson
Hop aboard (mom and dad, too) for views of the park from this elevated, yet moderately tame, roller coaster with Rudolph at the helm.
TripAdvisor/sam_from_nc
There's also a train — and too many other rides to name here.
TripAdvisor/Ashely AV8R
Take in a magic show, or visit the theater for some holiday-themed theatrics.
TripAdvisor/Christy C
There's a game room and arcade plus gift shops like Santa's Gift Shop and Frosty's T-Shirt and Gifts Shop.
Google/John Christian Abrahamson
And there's no need to leave to refuel your body. The theme park has plenty of places to dine, too.
Google/Christine R
Mrs. Claus' Kitchen serves up delicious deli sandwiches and pizza. Grab a burger over at the Burger Depot. Krisp Kringle's has snacks like funnel cakes and more. And Whitebeard's has the best snowcones around.

See what it’s like to experience this old-fashioned park:

This year, visit Santa at his summer home in the Smokies at Santa’s Land in Cherokee. This one-of-a-kind theme park in North Carolina belongs on everyone’s bucket list! Santa’s Land is only open seasonally and generally reopens in May. Check out these gorgeous scenes of Cherokee that show why it’s so worth visiting.

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More to Explore

Cool Attractions in North Carolina

William Suphan | April 28, 2023

What are the coolest hidden destinations in North Carolina?

The coolest hidden destinations in North Carolina include:

  • Carova Beach. You need a 4X4 vehicle to get to this beach, but once you do, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of wild horses.
  • Castle Monte Rouge. This odd castle near Durham has intriguing spires and sits all alone deep in the forest.
  • Mile High Swinging Bridge. Located at Grandfather Mountain, this is a thrilling challenge in the midst of gorgeous natural beauty.
  • Church of the Frescoes. This tiny church in a tiny town has authentic Italian frescoes within that will amaze you.

Discover more about the coolest hidden destinations in North Carolina. 

What are the coolest day trip destinations in North Carolina?

The coolest day trip destinations in North Carolina include:

  • The Fairy Trail. Take this lovely hike at Bullington Gardens where you’ll see artistic scenes of fairy homes, tea settings, and tiny gardens.
  • Waterfall Scenic Byway. If you want a truly picturesque drive, especially during autumn, this 98-mile byway has the most beautiful views.
  • Shangri La Stone Village. This miniature stone village was built with amazing detail by one person and is an amazing roadside attraction.
  • McGalliard Falls. Located near Valdese, this is the perfect place to go swimming at the bottom of a waterfall and enjoy a picnic.

Learn more about the coolest day trip destinations in North Carolina. 

What are the strangest roadside attractions in North Carolina?

The strangest roadside attractions in North Carolina include:

  • Plastic Flamingo Petting Zoo. These plastic flamingos won’t do much, but hey, you can pet them for free and take one home if you like.
  • The Angus Barn Self-Kicking Machine. Feeling the need for penance? Get kicked by a rotating wheel of boots!
  • Maggie Valley. This whole valley is filled with strangeness with the Indian Death Tiki of Awesomeness and the Ghost Town In The Sky.
  • Tobacco Museum Talking Robot. If you want to wander deep into the Uncanny Valley, take a gander at this animatronic robot that will teach you the history of tobacco.

Find out more about the strangest roadside attractions in North Carolina. 

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Santa'sLand Fun Park & Zoo, 571 Wolfetown Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA