This Pennsylvania Amusement Park Just Ranked as One of the Best in the Nation — and It Has Free Admission

Knoebels, located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, ranked No. 2 in a new analysis.

A recent study revealed the highest-ranked theme parks in America and a hidden gem in central Pennsylvania made the list. The data, collected by Casinos Sweeps, studied over 300 theme parks across the country, analyzing reviews on Google and Tripadvisor.

Knoebels, located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, ranked No. 2, with 83.3 percent of reviews rating it five stars. It scored an average Google rating of 4.8 out of 5 and 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

Owned and operated by the Knoebels family since its opening in 1926, this idyllic park is set among Pennsylvania’s rolling hills and welcomes multi-generations of guests. Knoebels is the largest free-admission amusement park in America and is open for seasonal operations, with limited-time special events hosted in the fall and winter. It also offers free admission into the park, plus complimentary parking and entertainment.

Knoebels has grown since its humble beginnings: it now houses over 60 traditional, kiddie, and thrill rides, including six roller coasters. Its attractions are award-winning, like Phoenix, which consistently ranks as one of the top wooden coasters in the world. Since the park is free to enter, guests pay-per-ride, with many costing around $3, or purchase a ride-all-day pass.

There are many classic attractions, like Tilt-A-Whirl, antique cars featuring replica 20th century Model T vehicles, and an over 50-year-old Haunted Mansion dark ride. Of its notable attractions, a 1913 steam-powered carousel is a family favorite and one of the largest in the world, with 63 beautifully hand-carved horses. The park is centered around the historic pool Knoebels Crystal Pool, which provides the perfect cool down on a hot summer day with 900,000 gallons of mountain stream water.

Knoebels is home to on-site accommodations, including a campground and cottages. There's also a golf course, making it a popular destination for visitors from the northeast and beyond.

Steeped in history and accolades, the charming park has been recognized by prestigious industry organizations, like the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), American Coaster Enthusiasts, and Amusement Today, which is known for the Golden Ticket Awards.

Knoebels is also renowned for its food offerings, which have won the park further awards, like fresh-cut fries and the now-famous Whirzle, a unique frozen beverage that blends creamy fudge into a sippable treat.

Other U.S. parks that were highly ranked in the study include Universal Islands of Adventure in Orlando and Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California.

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