Many of us grew up dreaming of getting to experience the brilliance of Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. We wanted to see how Santa Claus orchestrates the most magical time of the year and how the elves quickly make all the toys. While it may not be possible or practical to visit the actual workshop, Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs is a good alternative.
Round up the grandkids and check your list twice as we look at this unique experience your family will remember for years to come. Let’s get started!
What Is The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop?
The North Pole-Santa’s Workshop is a vintage amusement park in Colorado Springs, Colo. Arto Monaco, a former Walt Disney artist, designed and established this 25-acre park in 1955.
Despite growing in size and experiences, the park remains true to the original joy of the Christmas spirit that initially inspired it.
Santa’s Workshop sits at the base of Pikes Peak at 7,500 feet above sea level. It provides incredible panoramic views of the Pikes Peak Region, the city of Colorado Springs, and some crisp mountain air.
During the winter, the area gets snow and cooler temperatures, making it feel and look like the actual North Pole.
Is Santa’s Workshop Open Year-Round?
The park operates from mid-May through Christmas Eve. They also adjust the operating schedule based on the time of year. The park closes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, no matter the season.
And since Santa has a very busy time in December, the workshop closes the week of Christmas. Check the park’s calendar to ensure you have a smooth and memorable experience.
HOT TIP
The magic doesn’t stop at Santa’s Workshop, check out these 10 Magical Places to Visit This Christmas in the U.S.
What Is There to Do at The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop?
Everyone can find something to enjoy at The North Pole-Santa’s Workshop. It has more than two dozen rides available for guests to enjoy. The park features infant-friendly, child-only, and family rides. However, you still have plenty to see and do if you don’t like those.
Inside Santa’s Village, you can watch glassblowers craft intricate and delicate Christmas ornaments. You can also see a show or visit with the jolliest man in the park, Santa Claus. You can tell him what you want for Christmas and snap a picture with him.
How Much Does It Cost to Go to Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs?
During non-peak days, admission to the park is free. However, guests wanting to ride any of the rides will need to purchase a wristband. During peak days, the park requires reservations, and all guests must purchase a $30 unlimited-ride wristband to access the park.
The park does offer an unlimited summer pass for $55, but it’s not valid during the holiday season. The park offers military and senior discounts but not during peak days or the holiday season.
Where to Stay Near Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs
Are you looking for a place to stay near Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs? The park isn’t so large that you’ll need multiple days to enjoy it, but the area offers so much you’ll want to spend a few days exploring it. Here are some great places to stay in Colorado Springs.
The Outlook Lodge
Address: 6975 Howard St, Green Mountain Falls, CO 80819
About: The Outlook Lodge offers a comfortable and convenient place to stay outside Colorado Springs. The area has creeks, waterfalls, a lake, lush forests, wildflowers, and plenty of wildlife.
You can stay for a quiet weekend, making it easy to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the lodge. Rooms range from $157 to $297 per night and can accommodate couples and various size families.
Amenities: The Outlook Lodge provides more than just beautiful scenery for guests to enjoy. You’ll get free Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and access to a full kitchen.
Guests can also access a hot tub to soak their tired bones and muscles at the lodge’s neighboring sister property, The Little Beaver Inn.
However, gathering around the fire pit or fireplace can make a great way to connect with your family, friends, and other guests at the lodge.
The Cliff House at Pikes Peak
Address: 306 Cañon Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
About: The Cliff House at Pikes Peak is more than 150 years old and once served as a stagecoach stop, an elite mineral resort, and now serves as one of the highlights of Manitou Springs.
Furthermore, the resort has a AAA Four Diamond status, which it earns through its attention to detail in its style, sophistication, and services.
Fifty-four guest rooms and suites transport you to the late 1800s. Each room is unique in its design, decorations, and offerings. You’ll find everything from studio rooms to celebrity suites. However, you can have an unforgettable experience no matter what type of room you book.
Amenities: The resort offers nightly turn-down service and 24-hour room service.
In addition, you’ll get to enjoy luxury amenities like their premium bedding, heated toilet seats, Terry-lined microfiber bathrobes, and Lord and Mayfair bath products.
Some rooms include gas fireplaces, spa tubs, and steam showers.
Pikes Peak RV Park
Address: 320 Manitou Ave #2506, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
About: If you plan to bring your RV or do some camping while visiting Santa’s Workshop in Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak RV Park makes an excellent place to stay.
And it’s only a 10-minute drive from Santa’s Workshop and Garden of the Gods. The RV park has a relaxing creek that runs through one side of it.
Amenities: Pike’s Peak RV Park offers 30 and 50-amp service to their back-in RV sites. It also has laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and a dog park where your four-legged friends can run off some energy.
You can also enjoy some Corn Hole boards. The park’s proximity to the many local restaurants makes it easy to get a taste of what the area offers.
Is The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop Worth Visiting?
The North Pole-Santa’s Workshop is worth visiting if passing through Colorado Springs and looking for a unique attraction. You and your family can make some priceless memories at the park.
On the other hand, if your family doesn’t like rides, the $30 per person may be a tough pill to swallow. Visit during free admission days and only pay if you want to enjoy the rides. This can allow you to experience the park before committing.
However, it may be worth the cost if you need to put in a good word with St. Nick to get yourself off the naughty list.
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