Your online resource for the Smoky Mountains
Celebrating over 50 years of family fun in Cherokee, North Carolina, Santa's Land Fun Park & Zoo is a classic roadside theme park and zoo located right at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains. Combining festive Christmas cheer with family-friendly amusement rides, interactive animal encounters, and live entertainment, it offers a magical day out for believers of all ages.
571 Wolfetown Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719
Late spring (May/June) through early November
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
(Until 6:00 PM on Saturdays; closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays)
One flat admission price includes all rides, zoo exhibits, shows, & Santa visits (Children under 2 free)
Meet Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus at their mountain retreat, take memorable photos, share holiday wish lists, and receive a personalized "Good Conduct Diploma."
Take a spin on the park's signature roller coaster, the Rudi-Coaster, or enjoy nostalgic family rides including the Big Eli Ferris Wheel, an antique carousel, paddle boats, bumper cars, and classic kiddie rides.
Take a scenic train ride around the park that loops past storybook displays, lush mountain greenery, and the zoo enclosure.
Get up close with domestic and exotic animals—including baby black bears, ring-tailed lemurs, kangaroos, monkeys, deer, and exotic birds. Don't miss the daily bottle-feeding demonstrations with the baby bear cubs!
Catch family magic performances featuring comedy and illusionists, complete with volunteer participation for kids.
Serving up family favorites like burgers, deli sandwiches, hot dogs, pizza, and fresh-baked treats.
Stop by for funnel cakes, fresh homemade fudge, snow cones, and popcorn.
Explore shops packed with festive ornaments, souvenirs, t-shirts, and collectibles at Santa’s Christmas Gift Shop and Rudi’s Zoo Emporium.