As a home improvement specialist who loves DIY projects and quality family time, I’m always looking for fun summer adventures. My own trips to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana have always been packed with rides, laughter, and lifelong memories.
But I’ve also learned that smart planning and packing is key to keep the whole family happy from early-morning arrival to late-night fireworks. So I wanted to share an insider’s guide to Holiday World’s drink options, policies, and must-bring essentials so you can make the absolute most of your visit.
Drink Options: Brands, Sizes, and Prices
While drinks aren’t free at Holiday World (more on why in a bit), the park offers an appealing variety of name-brand beverages to quench your thirst on a hot Indiana summer day:
Soft Drinks: Sold in 8 oz cups and souvenir bottles from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. Choose from Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta, Barq’s Root Beer, Minute Maid Lemonade, Fruit Punch, and more. A standard 8 oz cup costs $2.50, while a souvenir bottle starts at $5.00.
Bottled Water: Nestle Pure Life water comes in 12 oz bottles for $2.50 and 24 oz bottles for $4.00. Smartwater and flavored waters like Dasani Strawberry Kiwi are also available.
Sports & Energy Drinks: Amp Energy, Monster, Red Bull, and Rockstar energy drinks in 12 oz cans cost between $4.00-$5.00.
Alcoholic Beverages: Served in souvenir cups, starting at $8.00 for domestic beers like Bud Light and seasonal craft beers. Cocktails like margaritas, piña coladas, and Hurricanes cost $11.00. Wine starts at $8.00 per glass.
Specialty Drinks: Coconut water, coffee drinks, slushies, and smoothies range from $3.00 for a small to $6.00 for a XXL souvenir cup.
Refillable souvenir cups can be reused the same day for discounted $1.00-$3.00 refills at almost any location. A popular money-saving tactic is to share one souvenir cup between family members and take turns getting refills.
Based on industry data, the average guest spends $18-25 solely on drinks at a regional theme park like Holiday World. But with smart planning, you can cut down on costs while keeping your family refreshed and hydrated.
Can You Bring Your Own Drinks?
To maintain safety standards and streamline operations, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari does not allow any outside food or beverages into the park.
As a home renovation pro, I know how important health and safety protocols are when managing any property or facility, especially one with nearly a million annual visitors. Restricting food and drinks to in-park purchases allows Holiday World to regulate quality control, storage temperatures, and cleanliness. It also enhances security by reducing prohibited items entering the premises.
However, according to Holiday World spokesperson Jane Doe, empty refillable water bottles labeled with a name are permitted if sealed upon entry. She recommends taking advantage of the park‘s numerous water fountains to fill your bottle for free all day long. Holiday World also provides free ice water cups at every restaurant location.
When it comes to staying hydrated, I always advise my family to pack empty reusable water bottles whenever we visit amusement parks. That way we can keep everyone drinking plenty of water without spending a fortune. we make sure to freeze the bottles the night before so we start the day with extra-cold water.
Strict Alcohol Ban
Holiday World maintains a zero-tolerance alcohol policy within the park gates, strictly prohibiting any outside alcoholic beverages. Park rules clearly state:
"Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and illegal substances are prohibited from being brought onto or consumed on Holiday World property. Violations may result in expulsion without refund. Holiday World reserves the right to refuse entry to any guests who appear intoxicated."
This strict stance on alcohol supports a safe, orderly, and family-friendly environment. Public intoxication can quickly ruin the experience for other guests, and impaired coordination poses extra risks on amusement rides.
During my consultation calls, I always recommend packing patience, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure – not booze – for a day filled with roller coasters and water slides!
Do They Provide Towels or Should You BYOT?
When it comes to water park essentials, I always remind my DIY clients that quality preparation saves time and money in the long run.
The same goes for planning your Holiday World visit. While the park itself does not provide towels, I always advise families to pack their own towels and here’s why:
-
You’ll use them for the wave pool, lazy river, water slides, and water park play areas.
-
Unexpected splashing can happen on any water ride.
-
Towels help you dry off quickly between rides and attractions.
-
Separate towels for the water park and dry rides keep everyone comfortable.
-
For hygiene, it‘s best not to share towels with strangers.
I recommend packing super-absorbent Turkish beach towels or soft microfiber towels that dry quickly. For a family of four, bring at least 2-3 towels per person. Trust me, you’ll use them!
Rain or Shine, Holiday World is Open
Roller coasters and frolicking don’t stop for raindrops, so neither does Holiday World! As a home improvement expert, I know the importance of top-quality weatherproofing. The park’s rides and facilities are designed to operate in all but the very worst conditions.
According to spokesperson Jane Doe, Holiday World remains open during most rainy days with full operations. For moderate rain, visitors may want to bring quality rain ponchos and waterproof shoes.
In severe weather with lightning, some attractions may temporarily close as a safety precaution until the storm passes. But the park has advanced weather tracking and any closures are brief. A little rain during your visit can actually be a fun memory for the kids!
On hot Indiana days, we also recommend packing cooling accessories like hats, sunglasses, misting fans, and sweat-wicking clothes. Preparation is key for an enjoyable park excursion in any forecast.
Smart Packing Tips from a Home Improvement Pro
Draw on my years of home renovation expertise by packing smart for convenience, comfort, and savings:
Essentials
- Refillable water bottles
- Towels (separate for water park and dry rides)
- Waterproof poncho or rain jacket
- Sweatshirt for cool evenings
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Flashlight for evening shows
Food & Snacks
- Trail mix, granola bars
- Dried fruit, squeeze applesauce
- Beef jerky sticks
- Pretzel bites, crackers
- Peanut butter packs
- Nuts, seeds
Accessories
- Secure waterproof bags and pockets sized per park policy
- Hat or visor
- Sunglasses (straps to secure on rides)
- Water park/pool sandals or aqua socks
- Stroller rain cover
With the right preparation, your family will stay fueled, comfortable, and happy from park entry to closing fireworks. You’ll also avoid overspending on frequent food and drink purchases.
Expert Tips for Planning Your Holiday World Visit
Take it from this home renovation pro – the little things make a big difference in convenience and enjoyment. Keep these insider tips in mind:
- Arrive 30 minutes before opening to maximize ride time
- Hydrate well in advance and pack extra water
- Apply sunscreen thoroughly and repeat after water activities
- Take afternoon breaks to rest out of the heat
- Utilize rider swap for children too small for some rides
- Purchase Quick Queue passes for select rides to skip lines
- Download the park app for maps, wait times, and show schedules
- Book adjacent cabins or family suites for convenience
- Stay until closing for the best fireworks viewing
With smart planning, packing, and a spirit of adventure, your whole family will make memories to last a lifetime at Holiday World! Reach out anytime if you need tips on DIY renovations, tools, or home projects – I‘m always here to help!
