It’s not too late to squeeze in a summer vacation either before school starts or for a long weekend. One place fairly close to home and offering lots of family fun, is Holiday World in Southern Indiana.  Even though it is a few hours away, taking the scenic route  is one of the most relaxing parts of the trip.

One thing that makes Holiday World worth the drive is that the lines to ride are usually very short. A ten minute or less wait is not unusual.  This is a real draw for everyone.  The kids get to ride more rides, more times.  And parents get more bang for their buck.

Coaster enthusiasts will appreciate ample opportunity to ride in the front seat of one of the three roller coasters Holiday World is known for.  The wooden roller coaster haven’s longest, tallest, and fastest coaster is the Voyage at 1.2 miles long and providing 24.2 seconds of “air time.”  The Voyage was voted The Best New Ride of 2006 by Amusement Today magazines.  It is also the park’s most expensive investment in its 60 year history costing $6.5 million.

This season introduced the seven story Bakuli (“bowl” in Swahili) water slide in the Splashin’ Safari water park, which also features other amazing slides, lazy rivers, water rides and two wave pools.

Holiday World is certainly a highlight for a Southern Indiana vacation with the theme park ticket price including the Splashin’ Safari water park.  Couple that with all you can drink free soft drinks, free sunscreen, free parking and short waiting time between thrills, and this vacation can be quite a bargain.  Another pleasant surprise was the very reasonably priced food.

If staying nearby is a must, there are two options.  Lake Rudolph Campground and RV Resort is right next door to Holiday World.  It features over one hundred rental RVs, cabins nestled in a wooded setting, 200 full-hookup RV sites and 40 tent sites with water and electricity for those on a tighter budget.

Paddle boating, basketball, or miniature golf  are just a few past times that can be enjoyed at Lake Rudolph.  There is also a family pool, kiddie pool, camp store and outdoor pavilion.

Another option just minutes away is Santa’s Lodge.  It has an on site restaurant, outdoor pool and adjoining Frosty’s Fun Center miniature golf and games.

For those who prefer to get away from it all after the excitement of a day at an amusement park, the Leavenworth Inn Bed and Breakfast is on the way home.  Set in the midst of rolling hills overlooking the Ohio River, the peaceful retreat offers the quiet and comforts perfect for unwinding.  The freshly baked cookies are a very nice touch.  They have bicycles to explore their beautiful grounds, tennis courts and a workout facility.

Suites are available and can easily accomadate a small family.  And breakfast at the Overlook Restaurant is included in the price of a night’s stay.  Located across the street from the inn, it is an experience that shouldn’t be missed with a beautiful view of the Ohio River to compliment the homestyle cooking.

While visiting down south, families will find plenty of other things to do.  Right in the heart of cave country is the National Landmark, Marengo Cave, featuring two cave tours.  Special features can be found on either trip.  Nice gifts and souvenirs can be purchased from a huge selection of items to fit almost any budget.   A sister facility offers Blue River canoe and kayak trips, so there really is something to interest just about everyone.

Even history buffs can enjoy themselves.  From the rich history of Marengo Cave to the varied museums, there is a lot to learn about this beautiful portion of Indiana.  And it all just adds to the family fun.