AMUSEMENT RIDES

Ride the reindeer-themed Rudicoaster, an antique carousel and Ferris wheel, and gentle family attractions at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC.

Ferris wheel rising above trees at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Small boat ride beneath a blue canopy at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Reindeer-themed Rudicoaster train rounding a track at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Covered carousel at Santa’s Land Fun Park in Cherokee, NC

Rudicoaster entrance sign and white roller coaster track at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Colorful children’s cars around a circular ride at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Child driving a yellow car on a children’s ride at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Children riding carousel horses at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Colorful children’s vehicle ride beneath striped canopy at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Passengers boarding the Rudicoaster at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Child sitting on a motorcycle ride at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Child sitting in a blue helicopter ride at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Riders aboard the reindeer-themed Rudicoaster at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Colorful carousel horses at Santa’s Land in Cherokee, NC

Blue helicopter ride at Santa’s Land Fun Park in Cherokee, NC

AMUSEMENT RIDES AT SANTA’S LAND IN CHEROKEE, NC

Santa’s Land is a compact Christmas-themed park built especially for families with young children. Its nine rides mix gentle classics with a small family coaster. The train and pedal boats have their own activity guides.

RIDES TO EXPECT

Rudicoaster is a continuously powered family coaster with a five-car, 20-passenger train. The 64-foot Big Eli Ferris wheel gives an elevated view of the park. Families can also ride a 1930s three-row carousel, helicopters, miniature Midge-O-Racer cars and the B&H Umbrella ride, whose vehicles include a fire truck, taxi and school bus. Adults may accompany smaller children on the Umbrella ride.

HOURS AND SEASON

Santa’s Land operates seasonally from late spring into early November. The park opens Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Rides operate during park hours, subject to weather and safety conditions.

ADMISSION AND PARKING

One-price admission includes unlimited rides; there is no separate charge for the amusement rides. Admission is $30 plus tax for guests age two and older, and children under two enter free. Senior, military and AAA discounts and rates for groups of 20 or more are offered. Parking is free.

WHICH RIDES FIT YOUR FAMILY?

The carousel and Umbrella ride can suit families with smaller children, while Rudicoaster offers a livelier experience. Height, age and adult-accompaniment rules are set at each ride. Follow the ride operator and posted safety signs; not every attraction is suitable for every child.

FOOD, BREAKS AND WEATHER

The park has several food stops, including Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen and the Depot Diner, plus restrooms and gift shopping. An early arrival leaves more time to explore the rides, zoo and Santa’s House without rushing. Outdoor rides may pause during rain or lightning.