The holidays are a magical time of the year, full of scents, sounds and sights that everyone can enjoy. One of the major delights of the season is spending time with your family while you look at all the Christmas lights.
Christmas at the Zoo
Come to see Santa and decorate holiday cookies in Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen. Then, grab the kids and head over to Santa’s Barn to catch a peek at Old Nick’s sleigh and some of his reindeer. If you don’t have kids, you and your partner can have fun looking for the 10 hidden sprigs of mistletoe around the zoo. There’s also a mirror maze full of flying snowflakes and a tunnel of light, making this one of the most enjoyable places to visit during the winter. Oh — and did we mention there are penguins? Depending on the weather, you can catch the lovable goofballs every evening from 6-8 p.m.
Lights at the Brickyard
Not sure you can make it before the displays get packed away for another year? No worries! From Dec. 13-24, there’s another winter wonderland located inside the IMS Plaza Village where you can explore all the holiday goodies for sale, hanging out by the fire pits making s’mores, and pose for photos with your family. The IMS Pagoda will also be lit up during that time, in expectation of Speedway Santa’s arrival.
Winterlights in Newfields
Entrance to the display does require tickets, but you can dance under the twinkle of holiday lights on the lawn, explore the Frosted Forest and sip hot chocolate (with or without a shot of something stronger) on the Snowflake Bridge with your love. When you’re done, feel free to examine the beautifully decorated rooms in historic Lily House for additional fun.
Christmas Nights of Lights
You can stay in your car while you sing along with the holiday tunes that are piped through your car’s radio as you drive around. Even better, the lighted displays are synced to the music, for a holiday light show like no other. A single $30 fee covers everybody in the vehicle — although single tickets are also available for $7 each.
Santa Claus
When you’re done, check out Santa’s Candy Castle to explore a variety of holiday treats and spend time roasting chestnuts and learning more about how American Christmas traditions have evolved. You can also see the Santa Claus Post Office, where volunteer “elves” respond to all the letters Santa gets in the mail.
A Merry Prairie Holiday
When you’re done, take time to explore. Carolers will be strolling around, the Kringle Carousel is there to ride and the Animal Encounter Barn is sure to delight your little ones. You can also see re-enactments of how Christmas used to be celebrated during the Civil War and join in for storytime with Mrs. Claus. (We happen to know that the kids can also drop off letters to Mr. Claus while they’re there.)
If you’re looking for a friendly, festive getaway this season, Indiana has plenty of holiday attractions for singles and families alike. There’s something for everyone, whether you love modern light shows or are looking for something nostalgic. Just don’t blame us if you fall so much in love with the state’s Midwestern charm that you end up relocating here permanently!