North Pole: Home of Santa's Workshop

What child wouldn't love to visit the North Pole? Maybe that seems a little too far to travel? Not if you are visiting the Colorado Springs area. Visitors to the area can enjoy spending a little time at North Pole: Home of Santa's Workshop, just outside of Colorado Springs, at the foot of Pike's Peak.

When visiting this enchanting little village it is good to keep in mind that you are at an altitude of 7500 feet and on the side of a mountain. The paths are extremely hilly and you will do quite a bit of walking up and down steep roads. My calves still have not forgiven me. The smiles on the kid's faces make it all worthwhile though.

My children were hot on the trail of all the exciting rides that the park has to offer. Their favorites were the Candy Cane Coaster, Tilt-a-Whirl, Tubs of Fun, and the Carousel. Many of the rides are family friendly and can be enjoyed by young and old alike. Some of the rides do require an adult to ride with a child, while some have height requirements, but they are safety precautions that are necessary.

The park is picturesque and was designed by a former Walt Disney artist from a description of what she thought Santa's Workshop might look like and for 51 years this attraction has brought happiness to innumerable children.

Shows such as Elmer the Elf, Chris Moose, and magic shows provide delightful entertainment while resting between rides.

There is a candle store where a variety of candles are sold and for $3.00 children can dip their own candles and create a masterpiece to take home as a souvenir. This can be a time consuming process so it is a good idea to get there early in your visit.

Also not to be missed is Santa's House where the kids can relax and have a nice visit with none other than Jolly Old St. Nick himself.

The obligatory souvenir and t-shirt shops are present, along with separate girl and boy toy shops and an Indian gift shop featuring Native American items, but the real treat is the Christmas Shop which features an amazing selection of ornaments, figurines and other Christmas items, including nativity sets and collectibles.

Everyone is sure to be exhausted after a day at Santa's Workshop, but it is a great family oriented attraction that will have the whole family smiling from ear to ear.

Santa's Workshop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May 24 through August 19. August 20 through December 23 it is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but is closed on Wednesday and Thursday. Admission is $16.95 for ages 2 through 59. Children under 2 and seniors over 60 are free.

North Pole, Santa's Workshop is located on U.S. Highway 24 near Cascade, CO.