As it approaches its 100th anniversary, Knoebels Amusement Resort is preparing to celebrate a century of family ownership, affordable entertainment, and community tradition.

To mark its milestone year, the park is planning a three-day celebration from July 3 to July 5. The festivities will include a parade and other commemorative activities designed to honor the park’s history and legacy.

Park officials have also indicated that anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the season, giving guests additional opportunities to participate in the once-in-a-lifetime occasion. 

Origins of the Park

Founded in 1926, the Pennsylvania attraction has grown from a small picnic and swimming destination into the largest free-admission amusement park in the United States. The resort remains owned and operated by the Knoebel family, which traces its connection to the property back to ancestors who immigrated from Germany and purchased the land as farmers.

The area’s natural landscape played a key role in the park’s beginnings. Two creeks met on the property, creating a popular swimming spot where local families gathered for picnics and recreation. As visitor numbers increased, the family added picnic tables, benches, and services for guests arriving by horse and buggy.

The attraction officially began on July 4 of that year, when the family opened a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a rented steam-powered carousel. 

Attractions of Knoebels Resort

Over the decades, the park expanded while maintaining its commitment to free admission. 

Today, this family-owned destination features approximately 60 rides, 38 food stands, 24 game attractions, water slides, and multiple lodging options. The resort also includes campgrounds and an 18-hole golf course located nearby.  

Among the park’s most popular attractions are the Black Diamond coaster, introduced in 2010, the Twister roller coaster, which debuted in 1999, and the StratosFear thrill ride, added in 2013. Several classic attractions remain in operation, including the Grand Carousel, which has been part of the park since 1942, the Whipper ride since 1950, and the Bumper Cars since 1947. 

Affordable Admission Policy at the Park 

One of the park’s defining features is its preservation of a traditional amusement park experience. Unlike many parks that adopted admission fees as the industry evolved, the resort continued its pay-as-you-go model, allowing visitors to enter without purchasing tickets. The resort has also maintained policies aimed at keeping visits affordable for families. Guests are not charged for parking and are permitted to bring their own food into the park, a practice that has become increasingly rare among major amusement destinations. 

National Recognition Ahead of Centennial 

The park recently earned international recognition in the 2026 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards. Knoebels Amusement Resort was ranked the top amusement park in the United States. It was the only American amusement park to place among the top 20 attractions worldwide, with other highly ranked U.S. parks including Dollywood and Disney’s Magic Kingdom. 

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