If you’re searching for a family-friendly getaway packed with nostalgic charm, thrilling rides, and budget-friendly fun Knoebels Theme Park PA. Nestled in the scenic Susquehanna River Valley in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort is a beloved destination that’s been creating memories since 1926. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or a camper looking to unplug, this iconic park has something for everyone. Let’s dive into why Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania is a must-visit, covering everything from pricing and reviews to accommodations and insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Why Knoebels Theme Park PA Stands Out
What sets Knoebels Theme Park PA apart from other amusement parks? For starters, it’s the largest free-admission amusement park in the United States! That’s right—no entry fee, no parking costs, and free entertainment like live music at the Hawaiian Bandshell. You only pay for the rides you want, making it a budget-friendly option for families of all sizes. With over 60 rides, award-winning food, a massive Crystal Pool, and two campgrounds, Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort delivers old-fashioned fun with modern flair.
The park’s rich history began nearly a century ago when Henry Knoebel purchased the land in 1828. By 1926, it had evolved from a simple swimming hole into a full-fledged amusement park with a carousel, restaurant, and the iconic Crystal Pool. Today, Knoebels Theme Park PA is family-owned and operated, maintaining its small-town charm while earning accolades like the #2 ranking in a nationwide amusement park analysis by Casinos Sweeps, with 83.3% of reviews giving it five stars.
Top Attractions at Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania
World-Class Roller Coasters
Knoebels Theme Park PA is a haven for coaster enthusiasts. The star of the show is Phoenix, voted the #1 wooden roller coaster in the world since 2018 by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards. Its thrilling drops and airtime moments are a must-ride. Another gem is Twister, a classic wooden coaster with intense twists, and Flying Turns, the world’s only wooden bobsled coaster, offering a unique ride experience.
Family-Friendly Rides
For younger guests or those seeking gentler thrills, Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania offers kid-friendly rides like the retro Hand Cars, where kids control the speed, and the charming Italian Trapeze. The park’s carousel museum is a hidden gem, showcasing the history of these classic attractions.
Crystal Pool and Water Fun
Beat the summer heat at the 900,000-gallon Crystal Pool, filled with refreshing mountain stream water. With waterslides and a splash zone, it’s perfect for all ages. Admission to the pool is separate, but it’s a great way to cool off after a day of rides.
Seasonal Events
Knoebels Theme Park PA shines during special events. Hallo-Fun Weekends in autumn bring kid-friendly Halloween activities, themed rides, and treats. In winter, Joy Through the Grove offers a dazzling drive-through Christmas light display. These events add extra magic to your visit.
Pricing at Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort
One of the biggest draws of Knoebels Theme Park PA is its flexible pricing. Since admission and parking are free, you control your spending. Here’s how it works:
- Ride Tickets: Purchase individual tickets for rides, with prices varying by attraction (typically $1–$3 per ride). Ticket books are available for savings.
- Ride-All-Day Wristbands: For unlimited rides, wristbands cost around $30–$50, depending on height and day of the week. Note: Wristbands are often unavailable on peak summer weekends.
- Crystal Pool: Pool admission is separate, with daily passes around $7–$10.
- Special Offers: Look for deals like “Buy One Ride All Day Pass, Get One Free” for select dates or military discounts (once per season).
Check the official Knoebels website for current pricing and promotions. Pro tip: Visit on weekdays or during off-season weekends for discounts and shorter lines.
Award-Winning Food at Knoebels
Foodies, rejoice! Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania is famous for its delicious, affordable eats. From the alligator bites at the International Food Court, named one of the top daring amusement park foods by Delish.com, to classic comfort food like pierogies and pizza, there’s something for every palate. Dexter’s Deli offers lighter options like salads ($4–$8), and special events like steak night or all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinners are crowd-pleasers.
Reddit users rave about the food, with one calling it “some of the best in the country” for amusement parks. Unlike many parks, Knoebels Theme Park PA accepts cash, making it convenient for all guests.
Knoebels Campground: Stay Close to the Fun
Extend your adventure by staying at Knoebels Campground or Lake Glory Campground, both part of Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort. Here’s the scoop:
- Knoebels Campground: Located a short walk from the park, this 160-acre site offers over 500 spots for tents, RVs, and cabins. Amenities include bathhouses, a playground, a half-court for basketball, and two pavilions for gatherings. A complimentary shuttle bus connects the campground to the park.
- Lake Glory Campground: A quieter option, this site is a 10-minute drive or free shuttle ride away. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Other Lodging: For a cozy stay, book a cottage or the Latorre House Bed & Breakfast, about a mile from the park.
Campground reservations don’t offer discounts, but the proximity to the park makes them a great value. Book early through the Knoebels website for peak season.
Hotels Near Knoebels Amusement Park PA
If camping isn’t your style, there are several hotels near Knoebels Amusement Park PA, though options are limited due to the park’s rural location. Most hotels are 10–20 miles away in towns like Bloomsburg, Danville, or Lewisburg. Here are a few:
- Holiday Inn Express Bloomsburg: 10 miles away, with free WiFi, a gym, and parking.
- Pine Barn Inn, Danville: Offers meeting rooms and free parking, ideal for groups.
- Best Western Danville Inn: Features an indoor pool and concierge services.
For the closest options, check HotelGuides.com or Orbitz. Book early for summer weekends or event dates like the Summer Craft Fair.
Reviews and Ratings of Knoebels Theme Park PA
Knoebels Theme Park PA enjoys glowing reviews from visitors and critics alike. With a 4.8/5 Google rating and 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor, it’s a fan favorite. Here’s what people are saying:
- Reddit Users: One visitor called it “by far the best and most affordable amusement park in Pennsylvania,” praising its wheelchair accessibility and $100 budget challenge. Another loved the nostalgic vibe, saying, “If you went there as a child, you have to go back as an adult!”
- X Posts: A recent post gushed, “We had the most amazing time, with rides on Phoenix, Twister, and the world’s only wooden bobsleigh!” Another recommended it for RV camping families.
- Travel Experts: Travel + Leisure ranked it #2 among U.S. amusement parks, citing its history and family-friendly charm.
While most reviews are positive, some note that weekends can be crowded, and a rare incident like a campground stabbing in 2023 raised safety concerns. However, the park’s strict policies, like banning drones and limiting alcohol to campsites, ensure a safe environment.
Tips for Visiting Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort
To make the most of your trip to Knoebels Theme Park PA, keep these tips in mind:
- Best Times to Visit: Weekdays or early/late season weekends are less crowded. Avoid Saturdays in July for shorter wait times.
- Pack Smart: Bring cash for food and rides, as the park isn’t cashless. Sunscreen and swimsuits are a must for the Crystal Pool.
- Group Discounts: Large groups can save on ride passes and reserve free pavilion space.
- Military Offers: Active or retired military get one discount per season—check the website for details.
- Stay Connected: Follow the Knoebels Facebook page for event updates and deals.
Beyond the Park: Nearby Attractions
Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort is more than just rides. Try these nearby activities:
- Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Course: A quarter-mile from the park, it’s perfect for a relaxing round.
- Numidia Dragway: 6 miles east for racing fans.
- Bloomsburg Fairgrounds: 9 miles north for seasonal events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Knoebels Theme Park PA
What is the cost of admission to Knoebels Theme Park PA?
Admission to Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort is completely free! You only pay for rides, either with individual tickets ($1–$3 per ride) or a Ride-All-Day wristband ($30–$50). Parking and entertainment like live music are also free.
Are there hotels near Knoebels Amusement Park PA?
Yes, though options are limited due to the rural location. Nearby hotels, about 10–20 miles away in Bloomsburg, Danville, or Lewisburg, include Holiday Inn Express Bloomsburg, Pine Barn Inn, and Best Western Danville Inn. Book early via Orbitz for peak seasons.
Can you camp at Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort?
Absolutely! Knoebels Campground offers over 500 sites for tents, RVs, and cabins, just a short walk from the park. Lake Glory Campground, a 10-minute drive away, is a quieter option. Both offer shuttle service to the park. Reserve at Knoebels.com.
What are the best rides at Knoebels Theme Park PA?
Top rides include Phoenix, the #1 wooden roller coaster worldwide, Twister for thrilling twists, and Flying Turns, a unique wooden bobsled coaster. Family-friendly options like the Hand Cars and Italian Trapeze are great for kids.
Is Knoebels Theme Park PA open year-round?
The park operates seasonally, typically from April to October, with special events like Hallo-Fun Weekends and Joy Through the Grove extending into fall and winter. Check the Knoebels calendar for exact dates.
What food options are available at Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania?
Knoebels Theme Park PA is known for affordable, award-winning food. Favorites include alligator bites, pierogies, pizza, and salads at Dexter’s Deli ($4–$8). Special events like steak night are a hit. Cash is accepted at all food stands.
Is Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort good for families with young children?
Yes! With free admission, kid-friendly rides, a splash zone at the Crystal Pool, and family events like Hallo-Fun Weekends, it’s perfect for kids of all ages. The park is also wheelchair-accessible.
Are there discounts at Knoebels Theme Park PA?
Look for deals like “Buy One Ride All Day Pass, Get One Free” on select dates or military discounts (once per season). Groups can save on ride passes, and pavilions are free to reserve. Visit Knoebels.com for offers.
Why Knoebels Theme Park PA Should Be Your Next Vacation
Knoebels Theme Park PA is a rare gem—an affordable, family-run amusement park that prioritizes fun over profit. With free admission, top-rated rides like Phoenix, mouthwatering food, and options like Knoebels Campground or hotels near Knoebels Amusement Park PA, it’s a destination that delivers on every front. Whether you’re splashing in the Crystal Pool, screaming on Flying Turns, or stargazing at Lake Glory, Knoebels Amusement Park in Pennsylvania promises memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your visit? Head to the official Knoebels website for tickets, camping reservations, and event schedules. Pack your bags and get ready for a dose of old-fashioned fun at Knoebels Amusement Park & Resort!
