Not many of us have the luxury of living close to Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. Over an hour drive to get to the Park is the reality for many people who live in cities throughout Pennsylvania. Here are my main reasons that my family makes the drive at least once and sometimes more each summer.
Old Mill Ice Cream
Of course my first reason had to be about food. Knoebels serves a lot of great food, but the hot fudge sundae from the Old Mill is at the top of my list. Most likely the best sundae I’ve had in my life. Ummm.
Grand Carousel
Normally, I’m not a huge fan of carousels. Rides that go in circles aren’t my cup of tea, but trying to grab the brass ring is a challenge and completely makes the carousel experience more fun. Make sure you get a horse on the outside and watch the people in front of you to time it just right.
Phoenix – Wooden Roller Coaster
This roller coaster is at the top of my list of woodies. Particularly the bunny hops at the end that give air-time lovers a huge thrill. I’ve heard that seats 3 and 10 provide the most air-time.
Flying Turns
The only one of its kind. It took years to build and perfect, which says a lot about the Knoebels family. Get your own photo of the riders in the viewing area where you can stand inside the footprint of the ride.
Scenic Skyway
Wow. The view from this ride is breathtaking. Add in some changing leaves in the fall, and it’s unimaginably good.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at this amusement park is – just different – than other parks. Not everyone is there to ride as many rides as possible. There’s free entertainment, great food, and some nice shops. Seems to me to be relaxed and multi-generational family-focused.
All of the Food
I already mentioned the sundaes, but for many peopleit’s the loaded waffle fries at The Wharf, the pizza at Oasis, the pierogis at the Round Stand, the Tiger Tail at Phoenix Junction…I could go on and on.
Crystal Pool
The only pool I have seen that has slides right in the middle. Diving boards and easy entry. Doesn’t get much better than that.
Haunted Mansion
It’s scary, and fun, and scary all at the same time. I try to let a decent amount of time go by between my rides. After a good six months I’ve forgotten the freights and it’s scary all over again. Well, I forget all but one part. One part I’ll remember forever 🙂 You know what I’m talking about.
Free, Free, and more Free
Free parking, free entertainment, and free admission. Plus you can pay for rides with individual tickets or some days buy a wristband. What’s not to love about that?
Don’t forget that Knoebels also hosts a Hallo-fun event in the fall. There’s also Joy Thru the Grove, a drive-thru light experience in the winter.
