**Knoebels Amusement Resort Crowned Best Amusement Park in the U.S.**
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Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, has recently been awarded the prestigious title of the best amusement park in the United States by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards for 2026. This honour marks a significant achievement for the family-owned park, particularly as it embarks on the celebration of its 100th anniversary.
Located around 115 miles northeast of Philadelphia, Knoebels stands out as the largest free-admission amusement park in the country, encouraging visitors to enjoy its numerous attractions on a pay-as-you-go basis. Guests can purchase individual ride tickets or opt for unlimited all-day passes, making it accessible for families and groups looking for an enjoyable day out.
Knoebels has made a remarkable rise in the rankings, moving up from third place in 2025, behind Dollywood and Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, to take the top spot this year. This leap in recognition reflects the park’s continuous efforts to provide a unique and memorable experience for its visitors.
Over the years, visitors have praised Knoebels for its blend of traditional theme park attractions and the charm of a county fair. With a total of 58 rides, including a vintage wooden roller coaster that has been thrilling guests for 41 years, the resort presents a diverse range of entertainment options suitable for all ages. In addition to rides, the park also offers swimming and camping facilities, an 18-hole championship golf course, and even a mining museum, which adds to its attraction.
One highlight of the park is the Phoenix roller coaster, which has gained a reputation as one of the world’s finest wooden coasters. This ride garnered the award for Best Wooden Coaster at the Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards for the seventh consecutive year in 2025, showcasing Knoebels’ commitment to quality attractions.
In an announcement made via social media, Knoebels expressed their gratitude to visitors who joined them for the start of their centennial season, which officially opened on 25 April. The park shared a heartfelt message emphasising the significance of their clientele, stating, “You are exactly why we’ve been doing this for 100 years.”
As the park continues its celebrations, attention is now on who will succeed in 2027. Dollywood, co-owned by country music superstar Dolly Parton, slipped to second place this year. Meanwhile, Disney World’s Magic Kingdom has dropped from second to third. Universal’s Islands of Adventure, along with Disney’s Hollywood Studios, forms the remainder of the top five rankings.
Knoebels also achieved recognition beyond the borders of the United States, placing 18th in Tripadvisor’s global rankings for the Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best. France’s Futuroscope claimed the number one spot in that category.
This latest accolade is a testament to Knoebels’ enduring legacy in the amusement industry and its ability to adapt to modern expectations while retaining its unique charm and appeal. Families looking for an affordable day out, coupled with the thrill of amusement park rides, continue to find a welcoming haven at Knoebels.
With its combination of nostalgia and modern attractions, Knoebels Amusement Resort seems well-positioned to remain a favourite destination for years to come. As it commemorates a century of fun, the park remains a shining example of family-oriented entertainment, drawing visitors from across the nation to experience its unique offerings.