#United States #Santa Claus #Holiday World #Good Gravy! #Theme Park

Holiday World Shines with Good Gravy!

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari has recently captured national attention with its remarkable new attraction, the Good Gravy! Family Roller Coaster. Voted the Best New Theme Park Attraction of 2024 by the prestigious USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, this coaster is quickly becoming a highlight of the park’s offerings.

A Unique Experience

What sets the Good Gravy! coaster apart is its warm, family-friendly theme. Riders board a train designed to resemble a massive gravy boat, twisting and turning through a whimsical landscape of oversized kitchen gadgets, celebrating the fun of family gatherings on Thanksgiving. Leah Koch-Blumhardt, the Director of Communications at Holiday World, emphasizes that the ride layout is perfect for families, catering even to children as small as 38 inches tall. This positions the coaster as a standout among family rides, merging thrill and enjoyment for all ages.

The adventure begins in Stuffing Springs, located in the park's Thanksgiving area. Visitors enter the charming Grandma Gracy's house, only to discover they are out of gravy! This setup leads to the excitement of boarding the giant gravy boat, where riders are initially pulled backward before hurtling forward. Along the way, they will soar past giant cranberry sauce cans and dodge massive kitchen utensils like whisks and rolling pins. The highlight of the ride is a pause at a towering seven-story spike, offering a breathtaking view before the coaster retraces its path.

A Testament to Family Fun

The response to the Good Gravy! coaster has been overwhelmingly positive since its launch in May 2024. Lauren Crosby, Director of Entertainment and co-owner, notes that the concept resonated with fans from the moment it was announced. The intricate details that transport riders back in time to Grandma's kitchen in 1965 add depth to the ride experience, from the vintage Sears Catalog displayed on coffee tables to the retro phone with a coiled cord.

This new attraction is part of a $10 million expansion project, which highlights Holiday World's commitment to enhancing guest experiences. Founded in 1946 as Santa Claus Land, Holiday World has evolved into a multi-holiday theme park, now also encompassing Splashin' Safari, the water park known for being the Water Coaster Capital of the World.

The Good Gravy! coaster doesn't just appeal to the masses; it has also earned accolades within the amusement park industry. It bagged the award for Best New Theme Concept at the Amusement Today Golden Ticket Awards, solidifying its status as a must-ride experience. Additionally, it was recognized as the #2 Family Coaster globally and was a finalist in other prominent categories.

Looking Forward to 2025

As the park looks ahead, 2025 season passes are now available featuring perks like the Free Pre-K Pass for eligible children. More operating days than in previous decades promise an exciting year for visitors. Holiday World is also introducing a worry-free weather guarantee, which allows guests to return for free if rides are closed due to severe weather. This attention to guest experience is just one more reason why Holiday World is a leading destination for family fun in the United States.

In closing, Koch-Blumhardt expressed sincere gratitude toward the park’s dedicated fanbase for their unwavering support, remarking, “We have the best fans in the world. Thank you to the expert panel and voters who recognized our efforts and shared their love for Holiday World.”

With innovative attractions like the Good Gravy! roller coaster, it’s clear that Holiday World is not just a theme park; it’s a destination where wonderful memories are crafted, uniting families and friends in laughter and joy.