Duration
3-4 hours
Best For
Families • Kids • First-Time Visitors
Pro Tip
Check the Magic Show schedule as soon as you arrive; it's a popular attraction and the times can vary, so plan your day around it to avoid missing out.
About Santa'sLand Fun Park & Zoo
Santa'sLand Fun Park & Zoo brings classic family entertainment to the heart of Cherokee, offering a unique blend of traditional amusement park rides and wildlife encounters. This seasonal attraction maintains the charming, retro feel of old-school theme parks while providing well-maintained facilities and attractions suitable for all ages.
The park features a collection of kid-friendly rides including a vintage carousel, mini roller coaster, and several gentle spinning attractions perfect for younger visitors. One of the park's standout features is its serene lake, where families can rent paddle boats for a relaxing break between rides. The on-site zoo area houses various native and exotic animals, giving visitors an opportunity to observe wildlife up close.
Children especially love the Christmas theme that runs throughout the park, with holiday decorations and opportunities for seasonal photos. The gift shop stocks both local Cherokee crafts and traditional holiday-themed souvenirs, making it easy to take home a memorable piece of your visit.
What sets Santa'sLand apart from larger amusement parks is its manageable size and laid-back atmosphere. You can easily experience all the attractions in one day without feeling rushed, and the park's layout allows parents to keep track of their children easily. The grounds offer plenty of shaded areas and benches for resting between activities.
While the park maintains a nostalgic feel, it's worth noting that it operates seasonally, typically during warmer months. Visitors should check current operating hours before planning their trip, as they can vary by season. The combination of rides, animals, and outdoor activities makes Santa'sLand Fun Park & Zoo a practical choice for families looking for a full day of varied entertainment in Cherokee.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Meet Santa Claus
Visit Santa in his mountain home and receive a 'good conduct diploma'. This is a memorable experience for young children.
Exotic Animal Zoo
Get face-to-face with a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including kangaroos, lemurs, and exotic birds.
Magic Show
Enjoy a family-friendly magic show that will entertain and delight children of all ages.
Age-Appropriate Rides
Santa's Land offers a selection of rides specifically designed for toddlers and young children.
Paddle Boat Rides
Enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the lake, a fun activity for the whole family.
Gift Shop
Find souvenirs and Christmas-themed gifts to remember your visit.
Know Before You Go
- Santa's Land is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the season.
- The park is seasonal and open from mid-May to the end of October.
- Santa and Mrs. Claus reside in the North Pole during the off-season.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Santa'sLand Fun Park & Zoo
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Santa's Land unique?
Santa's Land offers a nostalgic amusement park experience with a Christmas theme, featuring a zoo with exotic animals, rides suitable for young children, and the chance to meet Santa in his mountain home. Many families return across generations for the unchanged, classic atmosphere.
When is Santa's Land open?
Santa's Land is a seasonal park open from mid-May to the end of October. They are closed every Tuesday and Wednesday. The park is open Thursday through Monday from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on Saturday until 6 PM.
What kind of animals can I see at the zoo?
The zoo features a variety of animals including deer, emus, alpacas, a serval cat, kangaroos, exotic birds, bears, porcupines, and ring-tailed lemurs.
You May Also Like
More great places in Cherokee
Explore More
Explore Cherokee attractions
Discover top-rated spots
Top-rated amusement park
Complete Gatlinburg travel guide
Compare the two towns
Save money on your trip
Explore abandoned cabins
Unique Smoky Mountains custom
Sky-high mountain views
Manhattan Project history
Where to eat in the Smokies
Find your perfect stay
Expert travel tips
Explore 1000+ listings




