🛣️ Road Trip! Castle Noel: America's Christmas Wonderland

My Magical Journey Through Castle Noel: America's Christmas Wonderland

Nestled in the charming town of Medina, Ohio, lies a magical treasure that keeps the Christmas spirit alive all year round - Castle Noel. As someone who absolutely adores everything about the holiday season, discovering this enchanting attraction was like finding a gift I didn't know I needed.

Let's begin our exciting tour!

Upon arriving in downtown Medina with my boyfriend, we were surrounded by a festive atmosphere that felt like a page from a Christmas storybook.

The man behind this winter wonderland, Mark Klaus (a fitting name, right?), and his wife Dana have truly created something magical. Mark Klaus is not just a name; he embodies the spirit of Santa Claus with his jolly expression and long white beard.

Mark's love for Christmas began in his childhood, inspired by his parents who meticulously decorated their suburban Cleveland home. This passion grew, and he honed his artistic talents by carving ornaments and creating nativity scenes. His intricate cold-cast porcelain sculptures gained national recognition through TV shopping channels, making Mark a well-known figure in the Christmas art world.

The moment you step through the doors of this 40,000-square-foot wonderland, you're greeted by the melodious chiming of an authentic Lord & Taylor cuckoo clock, setting the tone for the nostalgic adventure ahead. Guides lead visitors through the attraction, providing facts and stories about the exhibits.

The tour had a slightly hurried pace, and the tight corridors could feel a bit cramped, but there were moments when we could pause and truly appreciate the enchantment around us. We entered a hall lined with Classic Hollywood and TV Christmas portraits.

I was especially excited to spot Edmund Gwenn's costume from Miracle on 34th Street (1947).

Another highlight was the “I Had That” room, brimming with nostalgic toys and games from different eras. It was a joy to discover toys from my own childhood. Can you spot your favorite toys?


I saw my most loved toy! The Barbie Dream House, that I used to have!

Castle Noel boasts the world's largest privately owned collection of Hollywood Christmas movie props and costumes. As we wandered through, I was mesmerized and overwhelmed by the treasures on display. Among them were Dudley Moore's costume and the animatronic reindeer sleighs used in Santa Claus: The Movie (1985).

Entire rooms are dedicated to films like Elf (2003), TV's A Christmas Carol (1999), and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000).

Elf (2003)

A Christmas Carol (1999)

Cindy Lou Who's neon-pink bedroom from Jim Carrey's version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Every January, just after New Year's Day, Mark and his team drive to Manhattan to harvest the latest crop of animated holiday displays from stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord and Taylor, Macy's, and Bloomingdale's. The tour meanders past at least a dozen of the animated fantasies, including an assembly line of high heel shoes, and several versions of The Nutcracker.

Interactive exhibits provided moments of pure joy. Walking through the Blizzard Vortex Tunnel, standing in front of Cousin Eddie's RV from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) and trying out the Santa Chimney Squeeze were also highlights.

The Santa Squeeze sparkles beneath 100,000 glittering glass bulbs overhead

Cousin Eddie's RV

The tour continues into a large room filled with Christmas and holiday leftovers.

You might find yourself craving something sweet, as their Sweet Shoppe window display at Saks 5th Avenue is delightful to observe. You even have the opportunity to relax for a moment on some candy benches!

The tour culminates at a pair of swinging doors, which open dramatically to reveal Castle Noel's cavernous Grand Hall.

Inside this grand space are showcased 400 props from The Grinch alone.

The Grinch's gift-filled sack is remarkably large when seen up close.

As well as the rotating Naughty-or-Nice globe from The Santa Clause 2 (2002).

And to add to the fun even more, take a photo as the 'Pink Nightmare' bunny suit from A Christmas Story (1983).

There is also an exact replica of Santa Mountain from the film featuring the slide that Ralphie was kicked down by Santa's boot. Every visitor concludes the tour with a slide ride.

One of the most heartwarming moments of the trip was meeting Mark Klaus himself. He was busy setting up a new display but took the time to greet us warmly. My sole regret was not taking a photo with him! His dedication to Castle Noel and the spirit of Christmas is truly inspiring.

Our tour concluded at the gift shop, a neat and beautifully arranged space filled with unique holiday gifts and souvenirs.

If you're a Christmas enthusiast like us, Castle Noel is a must-visit destination that will leave you with a heart full of holiday spirit.

Castle Noel is open year-round, except from January 15 to February 15. To avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting during the off-season. Don't forget your camera to capture the magical moments! Additionally, be sure to check out the onsite super fun Alien Vacation Mini Golf and The Polar Bear Club, also owned and operated by Mark and Dana Klaus.

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