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Holy Land USA: A roadside reverie in Waterbury

Explore a unique religious landmark in Waterbury, CT, with biblical recreations, folk art, and panoramic city views at Holy Land USA.

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Holy Land USA in Waterbury, CT, is a unique roadside attraction and religious site. Originally opened in 1956, the park features miniature recreations of biblical scenes and landmarks. Though it fell into disrepair and closed in the 1980s, it has since been partially restored and is open to the public for daytime visits, offering a glimpse into its quirky history and providing panoramic views of the city.

A brief summary to Holy Land USA Waterbury

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique folk art and panoramic views.
  • Check the Holy Land USA website or call ahead for information on special events or services.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Holy Land USA is located at 60 Slocum Street in Waterbury, CT. It is accessible from I-84 and Route 8. From I-84, take Exit 22 and follow local roads to Slocum Street. From Route 8, follow signs to Waterbury and then to Slocum Street. Parking is limited near the entrance. Street parking is available. There are only four parking spaces in the small lot. Limited handicapped parking spaces are available in the Holy Land USA parking lot.

  • Public Transport

    The Waterbury Division of CTtransit operates bus service in the Waterbury area. Check CTtransit schedules for routes and stops near Holy Land USA. From downtown Waterbury, local bus routes connect to areas near Slocum Street. Single-ride fares are typically around $1.75. Additional dial-a-ride and paratransit services are available to eligible riders in Waterbury through the GWTD. This service is free.

  • Walking

    From the Brass Mill Center, Holy Land USA is a moderate walk uphill. Follow Union Street to Slocum Street and continue uphill to the entrance. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes. Be aware that Slocum Street is residential with limited sidewalks.

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Discover more about Holy Land USA Waterbury

Holy Land USA, perched atop Pine Hill in Waterbury, Connecticut, is an 18-acre Catholic theme park with a captivating history. Founded by local attorney John Baptist Greco in 1956, the park was envisioned as a place for community and peaceful reflection, with attractions inspired by passages from the Bible. Visitors can explore the remnants of this once-vibrant attraction, including replicas of ancient Israelite villages, catacombs, and the Stations of the Cross. These structures, while showing their age, are constructed from repurposed materials like cinder blocks and bathtubs, adding to the park's unique character. The park's centerpiece is a large, illuminated cross that can be seen from miles away, a symbol of faith and a landmark for the city. During its peak in the 1960s and 70s, Holy Land USA attracted tens of thousands of visitors annually. However, the park closed in 1984 due to Greco's failing health and subsequent death in 1986. Although it fell into disrepair, the site reopened to the public in 2014 and has been undergoing ongoing restoration efforts. Today, Holy Land USA offers a blend of religious history, folk art, and panoramic views, making it a distinctive destination for those seeking an unusual and thought-provoking experience.

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