Santa Claus Museum & Village
Visit the Santa Claus Museum & Village to step into the town’s fascinating history. Explore a collection of original town buildings dating back to 1856. Write a letter to Santa from the town’s first post office. And, feel the ageless beauty as you walk into the completely original 1880 Santa Claus Church. Visit the fully restored 1935 Santa Statue, towering 22 feet tall and “dedicated to the children of the world.”
Inside the museum, trace the town’s interesting history from mid-1800s to today. See historical documents, photos, and artifacts from museum founder and Chief Elf Pat Koch’s private collection. Visitors will see Holiday World archives as well as loaned and donated treasures from collectors with personal ties to the rich history of the town of Santa Claus.
Visitors will be surprised and delighted with the variety of memorabilia, photos, and articles on display.
Santa Claus Museum Exhibits:
- The early beginnings of Santa Claus, Indiana
- The history of the famous Santa Claus Post Office
- The start of tourism in Santa Claus with Santa’s Candy Castle and Barrett Park
- The history of Santa Claus Land and its evolution to Holiday World
- Letters to Santa and the local tradition of responding to the thousands of children who send them from all over the world
- Antique toys and dolls
Be sure to take home a piece of the magic by checking out the Santa Claus Museum Gift Shop featuring exclusive Santa Claus souvenirs and nostalgic Christmas items. Admission to the Santa Claus Museum & Village is free but donations are welcome.
Send your letter to Santa year round; personalized replies are sent in December!
P.O. Box 1
Santa Claus, IN 47579
This attraction is open seasonally and hours may vary.
Click here to see the hours of operation for local attractions and restaurants.
Santa Claus Indiana History
Reviewed 12-11-18
Cute little museum that tells the story of how Santa Claus Indiana came about. The sad part is that at one time this probably was a quaint little town, that had a nice story to tell and had a reason... Read More
Santa History
Reviewed 11-17-18
It’s a small museum so don’t expect a lot. Still, some great history information:) Small selection in gift shop items, desk clerk was polite and friendly:) No COST:) Donations are excepted in the... Read More
Quaint & quirky
Reviewed 09-15-18
This tiny museum is the jewel in the crown of Santa Claus, Indiana. The minimal cost of entry (suggested donation $2pp or $8 per family) gives you access to documents which tell the tale of how Santa... Read More
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Explore Nearby
On the map below, you'll find Santa Claus Museum & Village, as well as a few of the lodging, dining, and activities that are close by.
THINGS TO SEE & DO
DINING OPTIONS
PLACES TO STAY
