Tourism ranks as an important economic source in Lincolnland, thanks to two opposite draws: the heritage of Lincoln’s Boyhood years and the thrills of Holiday World Theme Park and Splashin’ Safari Water Park.
History buffs begin their tour of Lincoln’s footsteps at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, which is administered by the National Parks Service. It is located across from Lincoln State Park, also named after the great president. The Memorial Visitor Center reflects the dignity of the area with five sculptured limestone panels showing significant national events during the years of Abraham Lincoln’s life. Along the trail to his cabin site lies Lincoln’s mother’s grave. There is a bronze hearth where a Lincoln cabin once stood.
The Lincoln Living Historical Farm, located within Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Lincoln City offers visitors the chance to experience a working pioneer homestead. The Lincoln Pioneer Village and Museum in Rockport is a perfect companion where tourists stroll through a re-creation of the town during Lincoln’s residency: the John Pritcher Law Office, Aaron Grigsby Home, Jones Store, James Gentry Home, Old Pigeon Church, a school house and Brown's Tavern. The village qualified for the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

On the other side of the coin, history continues to play an important role. Holiday World and Splashin Safari was originally known as Santa Claus Land - the summer home of Santa Claus. The attraction opened in August 1946, making it what experts believe is the country’s first theme park, nine years ahead of California’s Disneyland. Today, Inside Track magazine consistently rates Holiday World as the Friendliest Park Staff in the nation. The basic idea, naturally, is to spin, shake, splash and smile to attractions like the Raven - voted the number two coaster in the world, Banshee, Reindeer Ranch and Holidog’s FunTown. Once you're warmed up, cool off with Spashin Safari featuring The Watubee - a water slide for rafts, Monsoon Lagoon's 12 play levels, The Wave, AmaZoom, Bamboo Chute and Otorongo. The Legend, built to surpass the popularity of The Raven, is scheduled to be open in early 2000. You won’t want to miss it!

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