This Long-Abandoned Connecticut Tourist Attraction Is Making A Comeback

Here at Only In Connecticut, we love abandoned places. There's something hauntingly striking about seeing nature take over a spot that was once full of life and human activity. However, we also love a good comeback story, and it's always nice to hear about places that were once dilapidated eyesores being restored to their former glory. One abandoned place in Connecticut that's attracted quite a few headlines over the years is the Holy Land USA in Waterbury, CT. This place once attracted more than 40,000 visitors each year, but up until recently, was abandoned and had been heavily vandalized by trespassers. Now, Holy Land USA is again on the up-and-up, and is in the process of making a comeback. Let's check out the history of this religious theme park in Connecticut;

Holy Land USA spans 18 acres on a hillside in Waterbury. This unique theme park first opened in 1955 and became quite popular, especially during the 1960s and 1970s.

This religious theme park in Connecticut contained sculptures and art depicting biblical scenes like the Garden of Eden and Daniel in the lion's den.

In 1984, the theme park closed and the owner hoped to renovate it and make it bigger. Sadly, he passed away a few years later, and the park floundered for many years.

The park became a target for vandals, and was soon covered in graffiti. It was even the site of a brutal murder in 2010.

In 2013, the park was purchased by new owners, and within a year, the park had reopened to the public during daylight hours.

Restoration efforts are ongoing, and some areas of the park have seen more improvement than others. A new 56-foot-tall light-up cross has been installed.

Various churches host events throughout the year here, and further development is in the works.

Are you planning to visit Holy Land USA in Waterbury? Let us know in the comments section! For more information about Holy Land USA and to track the progress of this religious theme park in Connecticut, check out the Holy Land USA Facebook page or Holy Land USA website.

Want to find more unique things to do in Connecticut? Take a peek at the great experiences and tours in Connecticut available on Viator.