In a remarkable testament to enduring family vision and community spirit, Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, has stood as the largest free-admission amusement park in the United States for nearly a century. Established in 1926 by the Knoebel family, this picturesque park has become a favoured destination for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of natural beauty and exciting attractions.
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Brian Knoebel, a descendant of the original founders, recently shared the origins of the park in an interview with PA Local. Initially, the Knoebel family operated as farmers, cultivating Christmas trees and raising animals on their land. The location’s unique geography—where two creeks converge to form a lovely swimming hole—caught the attention of locals. After church services, families would frequent the area to picnic and enjoy the refreshing waters. “My great-grandfather would feed and stable your horses for, I believe, a quarter,” Knoebel recounted. This approach laid the groundwork for the development of the park.
On July 4, 1926, Knoebels officially opened its doors to the public, featuring a swimming pool, a modest restaurant, and a charming steam-powered carousel. Almost a century later, the park has evolved significantly, now boasting an impressive array of 60 rides alongside numerous food stalls, games, and water slides. The expansion, however, has not come at the cost of its ethos, with the park remaining steadfast in its commitment to free entry for all.
Knoebel reminisced about how the park has changed while also resembling its historic self. “The canopy of trees that exists here in the park is something we take a lot of pride in,” he said, underscoring their commitment to preserving the natural environment. He noted that for every tree removed for expansion, a new one is planted. This preservationist approach has become an unwritten principle within the Knoebel family.
The park’s offerings include thrilling rides such as the Black Diamond coaster, which debuted in 2010, and the adrenaline-pumping Twister, introduced in 1999. The StratosFear, added in 2013, also features among the newer attractions. Meanwhile, some beloved rides have stood the test of time, with the Grand Carousel performing gracefully since 1942, and the Bumper Cars, a family favourite, in operation since 1947.
Knoebel expressed pride in the park’s continued commitment to community accessibility. While many amusement parks have begun charging entry fees, Knoebels has chosen to maintain its free admission policy. “I had to pinky swear to never change it,” he remarked, highlighting the appeal this policy has for families, particularly for grandparents who derive joy from watching their grandchildren enjoy the attractions rather than participating themselves. The park’s ethos allows visitors the freedom to bring their own picnics, alleviating financial pressure on families during their visits.
However, the road has not been entirely smooth. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, hindering the park’s operations and prompting many staff members, some nearing retirement, to exit earlier than planned due to uncertainty. Despite these obstacles, Knoebel remains optimistic about the future of the park, reiterating the family’s desire to keep the enterprise within the family. “There have been, through the years, people that have tried to buy us, and we don’t even entertain the thought,” he affirmed.
Knoebels Amusement Resort recently received prestigious recognition from TripAdvisor, ranking as the number one amusement park in the U.S. according to their 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Notably, it was the only American park to secure a place in the top 20 of a global ranking, outpacing renowned locations such as Dollywood and Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
In celebration of its notable 100-year milestone, the park will host a series of events from July 3 to July 5. These festivities will include a parade and several surprises, aimed at honouring the community that has supported the park throughout its storied existence. The official website reassures visitors that if they cannot attend the celebrations during the specific weekend, various events will be held throughout the season, allowing everyone to partake in this momentous occasion.
In a world where many amusements change hands frequently or focus on profit, Knoebels Amusement Resort remains a beacon of consistent family values and community spirit. Its legacy not only reflects the Knoebel family’s dedication to preserving a beloved space but also illustrates the timeless joy that amusement parks can bring to generations of visitors.