For nearly a century, families have flocked to Knoebels Amusement Resort for nostalgic charm, classic wooden coasters and old-school summer traditions. And now, the Pennsylvania favorite has earned one of the biggest honors in the amusement park world.
TripAdvisor recently named Knoebels the best amusement park in the country as part of its 2026 Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” awards, placing the family-owned Pennsylvania destination ahead of massive theme park giants in Florida and California.
What makes the recognition even more impressive is that Knoebels operates unlike almost every other major amusement park in America. The park is not only known for its award-winning rides and family atmosphere — it’s also the nation’s largest free-admission amusement park.
Located in the scenic Susquehanna River Valley in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, Knoebels has welcomed guests since 1926. It continues to embrace the timeless charm that has made it a multigenerational tradition for so many families.
Knoebls- America’s largest free-admission amusement park
While many amusement parks charge hefty admission prices before guests even enter the gates, Knoebels keeps things refreshingly simple. Visitors can enter the park for free and enjoy complimentary parking and picnic facilities. Moreover, you’ll only pay for the rides and attractions they want to experience.
What makes Knoebels stand out
- Free admission every day
- Free parking and free picnic areas
- More than 100 rides and attractions
- Home to the legendary Phoenix wooden roller coaster
- A 900,000-gallon Crystal Pool filled with mountain stream water
- Campgrounds, cottages, and overnight stays
- Live entertainment at the Hawaiian Bandshell
- An 18-hole championship golf course nearby
- Award-winning amusement park food loved by generations
Beyond the rides, Knoebels offers the kind of old-fashioned amusement park experience that feels increasingly rare today. Families can spend the day riding coasters, cooling off at the pool, listening to live music and sharing classic comfort foods all without the overwhelming crowds and high prices often associated with larger theme parks.
Nearly 100 years after opening, Knoebels continues proving that timeless traditions, affordable fun and family memories never go out of style.
Getting there from Philadelphia 🚗
Knoebels Amusement Resort is located about 2.5 to 3 hours from Philadelphia, making it a popular summer road trip destination for families across the region. The drive takes visitors through Pennsylvania’s scenic countryside and the Susquehanna River Valley, with the park situated in Elysburg, near Bloomsburg.
