Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, has been recognized as the highest-rated theme park in the United States, according to Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. The century-old park, which opened on July 4, 1926, was named America's favorite, outranking well-known destinations such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
A key feature distinguishing Knoebels is its free admission policy. Visitors pay per ride, with prices for individual attractions ranging from $2 to $5. Alternatively, an all-day pass is available for $54 to $60 for adults and $36 to $40 for children, offering unlimited access to all rides.
The park boasts over 100 rides and attractions, including the Phoenix, which Tripadvisor notes as the world's best wooden coaster. In addition to its rides, Knoebels offers a swimming pool, water slides, dining options, a bald eagle habitat, a history museum, and a golf course.
Park owner Brian Knoebel has emphasized the importance of free admission, stating that it allows grandparents, who may be on a fixed income, to enjoy the park with their grandchildren without the added cost of entry. He has made a commitment to never charge for admission, a promise he refers to as a "pinky swear."
The origins of Knoebels trace back to the grandparents of the current owner, who purchased land where two streams converged to create a natural swimming hole. This area became a popular spot for Sunday picnics and recreation. The park evolved from these beginnings, with the addition of picnic tables, benches, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a steam-powered carousel on July 4, 1926.
Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards are based on reviews submitted by travelers between February 1, 2025, and January 31, 2026. In this year's rankings, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, secured the second position, followed by Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, which came in third.
