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A Pennsylvania amusement park has been named the best in the United States, beating out major competitors like Disney and Universal. Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, claimed the top spot on TripAdvisor's recently released "Best of the Best" list.
A Family-Owned Gem
Family-owned and operated since 1926, Knoebels Amusement Resort is America's largest free-admission amusement park. According to TripAdvisor, the park offers a wide variety of attractions, including roller coasters, kid-friendly rides such as bumper cars and a haunted mansion, swimming facilities, camping, a mining museum, and an 18-hole championship golf course. The staff's accommodating nature, clean facilities, and fun attractions contribute to a memorable family-friendly visit.
The park has earned a 4.7 rating from nearly 3,000 reviewers on the platform. Dollywood, Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Universal Islands of Adventure rounded out the top five.
Free Admission and Thrilling Rides
Knoebels celebrated its top ranking with a social media post, and fans were unsurprised by the recognition. The American Coaster Enthusiasts for Eastern Pennsylvania responded, "We knew it all along." One user commented, "Been going since 1996."
Opened in 1926, Knoebels is the largest free-admission park in the country. While entry is free, visitors pay for individual ride tickets. The resort features over 100 rides, from family-friendly options to thrilling coasters. The Impulse roller coaster, known for its upside-down twists and 90-degree free fall, is one of the park's most popular attractions. The Phoenix roller coaster, a classic wooden model originally opened in 1947 in Texas, was relocated to Knoebels in 1985.
For those seeking gentler experiences, the park offers attractions like antique cars, where visitors can drive a Model-T replica through the woods and under the Phoenix roller coaster. The Grand Carousel provides a nostalgic ride, with a game on each round where the winner receives a free turn.
The Top 10 List
The full top 10 list from TripAdvisor is as follows:
- Knoebels Amusement Resort (Elysburg, Pennsylvania)
- Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, Tennessee)
- Magic Kingdom Park (Bay Lake, Florida)
- Disney's Hollywood Studios (Bay Lake, Florida)
- Universal Islands of Adventure (Orlando, Florida)
- Epcot (Bay Lake, Florida)
- Legoland California (Carlsbad, California)
- Universal Studios Florida (Orlando, Florida)
- Disneyland Park (Anaheim, California)
- Silver Dollar City (Branson, Missouri)
Dolly Parton's Dollywood secured the second spot. TripAdvisor noted that the park has a downhome feel with singalongs and a museum dedicated to Parton's life, alongside high-velocity roller coasters and thrill rides. Artisans showcase glass blowing and pottery skills, and the park's two resorts offer perks for guests.
Two Disney parks in Florida took the next spots. Magic Kingdom Park, located at Walt Disney World Resort, features iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Jungle Cruise, and Cinderella Castle, along with nightly fireworks, musical parades, and character meet and greets.
