The Great Outdoors... and So Much More

Posted on May 11, 2020

Indiana’s “reopening” is officially underway! Some of our area’s attractions and businesses are already in various phases of welcoming visitors back, while others are preparing to open their doors in the very near future.
Safety is obviously at the top of everyone’s minds right now. And our local tourism community is taking steps to ensure that our visiting families are protected as they enjoy all this area has to offer.
From wide-open spaces in our state and local parks to the “cleanest theme park in the world”—if you’re looking for safe travels, this area fits the bill!

Wide Open Spaces

With both state and national parks, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside, keep your distance, and have a memorable family vacation.
At Lincoln State Park, you can enjoy a peaceful hike on over 10 miles of trails, explore the park by bike, fish by boat or by the side of the lake, spend a little time birdwatching, or enjoy a family picnic.
Campgrounds at the state park are currently closed but have a tentative reopening date of May 24, so start making your plans to visit now!
Across the road from the state park, you’ll find Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial. The Visitors Center is currently closed, but there’s plenty to enjoy in the park’s outdoor spaces. As you explore the park’s quiet, wooded trails, the story of Abe’s 14 years in Indiana comes to life.
Just past the impressive flagpole, you’ll find the Pioneer Cemetery where you can stop for a moment of silence at the gravesite of Nancy Hanks Lincoln. Moving along, you’ll encounter the Cabin Site Memorial, marking what is believed to be the site of the third Lincoln cabin. Then spend a little time exploring the Living Historical Farm, a re-created pioneer homestead with a cabin, farm animals, and vegetable and herb gardens.

Fun for Animal Lovers and Movie Buffs

Visitors are already getting back in the saddle at Santa’s Stables. Recently opened for the season, they offer trail rides throughout the gorgeous southern Indiana countryside. Santa’s Stables has strengthened their

already-thorough health and safety standards and are accepting riders by reservation only. So you can be sure to have a safe and fun time!
It doesn’t get much safer than a drive-in movie—you don’t even have to leave your car! That’s why Holiday Drive-In Movie Theater is a must-visit when you’re in the area. After being limited to movies streaming to our homes, it's time for a return to the big-screen experience! And Holiday Drive-In is kicking off its 65th season with a line-up of family-friendly flicks.
Concessions are limited, and if you sit outside your car, you’ll be asked to socially distance from your neighbors. But there’s nothing quite like a movie under the stars!

The Cleanest Theme Park in the World

Holiday World will spring back to life on their planned opening date of June 17. Having been designated “the cleanest park in the world,” they know a thing or two about keeping their guests safe. And with their planned reopening, the park is looking forward to exceeding those expectations.
The park will welcome guests back at a reduced capacity as required by the state’s specifications. And though a reopening date hasn’t yet been announced for Splashin‘ Safari, the park hopes to see guests return to the waterslides sometime in July.
Rest assured that even though things may look a little different inside the park, family fun still awaits!

Shop, Dine, Stay, Play

Cleanliness and commitment to guest safety don’t end at Holiday World’s gates. You’ll find evidence of it throughout the area in our shops, restaurants, and lodging!
Shops like Santa’s TOYS and Evergreen Boutique & Christmas Shop are able to welcome a reduced number of

shoppers back in their stores and are taking precautions—including frequent sanitizing and encouraging the wearing of masks. But they also continue to take orders by phone and online and offer curbside pickup for those who choose it.
Restaurants can now open at half capacity this week and are anxious to welcome back diners. Most restaurants will continue to offer carryout and/or delivery even as they reopen their dining areas. Others are delaying dine-in service to allow time to implement additional safety measures.
Throughout the area, our lodging establishments are following guidance from the state and the CDC to ramp up their already-rigorous cleaning procedures. As the area’s attractions reopen, our hotels, cabins, cottages, and vacation rentals will be ready to welcome guests safely and help them create a memorable stay.
Other popular attractions—like Lincoln Pioneer Village & Museum, Santa Claus Museum & Village, Santa Claus Christmas Store, and more—are still evaluating when they’ll reopen for the season. And they’re using this time to ensure that when guests return, they’ll do so safely.

Ready To Plan Your Visit?

After being homebound for so many weeks, you’re likely ready to hit the road and head to our area. And we’re looking forward to welcoming you back! If you need help planning your visit, you’ll find plenty of resources on our website, including the helpful Trip Planner. Plus, you can always Contact Us with questions.

10 Places to Explore the ‘Greatest’ Outdoors

24 Things to Do in 2024

Good Eats

Places to Eat Near Holiday World

Just Like Home

Places to Stay Near Holiday World

5 Things to Know Before You Visit

Trip Planning Made Easy