Spencer County is located in southern Indiana. The nearest airports are Louisville International Airport (SDF), approximately 80 miles to the east, and Evansville Regional Airport (EVV), approximately 47 miles to the west. Interstate 64 provides direct access to Spencer County via exits 57A and 63.
The town of Santa Claus is a small community of approximately 2,500 residents who play host to over one million visitors during summer. Though we are a small town, several attractions are spread out and there are few sidewalks. Walking is only encouraged in the Kringle Place Shopping Center. We recommend visitors plan on driving to other area attractions. Free parking is available at all lodging and attractions. There are no buses, trams, or taxi services.
Highway 162 goes right through town, separating Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari’s parking lots. This highway provides direct access to shopping in Kringle Place and lodging at Santa’s Lodge and Santa’s Lakeside Cottages.
The other main artery through the town of Santa Claus is Highway 245, along which you will find Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph and several vacation rentals. Heading south offers direct access to the Santa Claus Museum & Village and Santa’s Candy Castle.
Lincoln City is five miles west of Santa Claus, where you will find Lincoln State Park to the left and Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial to the right. It’s a short five-minute drive. The parks are separated by Highway 162, so visitors are encouraged to drive from one to the other.
The town of Dale is eight miles north of Santa Claus on Highway 245, as well as multiple exits off of US-231, and offers hotels, including Baymont Inn and Suites and Motel 6 and several restaurants.
St. Meinrad is located less than nine miles northwest of Santa Claus. The main roads through town are SR 62 and SR 545. Great day trips include: Saint Meinrad Archabbey and the Saint Meinrad Archabbey Gift Shop, as well as Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery.
US-231 makes traveling south to Rockport very easy. Rockport is home to several historical sites. Step back in time inside the 13 Lincoln-era replica cabins at the Lincoln Pioneer Village & Museum, visit where Abe operated his ferry boat business at Lincoln Ferry Park, as well as Lincoln Landing, where he launched a flatboat to transport produce to New Orleans for a local merchant in 1828. Restaurants and lodging are also available.
From Lincoln Pioneer Village & Museum in the south end to Saint Meinrad Archabbey in the north end of the county, it’s only 32 miles to experience all Spencer County has to offer.
Find regional day trips and getaway ideas throughout southern Indiana.