Top 20 Rides at Knoebels

Knoebels is the largest free admission amusement park in the United States and it's one of my favorite amusement parks in the world. Knoebels has a rare mix of classic attractions and modern thrillers. There are a few award-winning wooden roller coasters plus some of the best flat rides in the world.
Video Credits
Cosmotron POV (Teejay2400 Productions)- • Video
Crystal Pool (RAPtor Adventures)- • Knoebels Crystal Poo...
Fandango (Knoebels)- • Fandango
Flyer Off-Ride (Sean Flaharty)- • Snapping The Flyers at...
Flying Turns POV (JohnYChen)- • Flying Turns Roller Co...
Looper Off-Ride (Knoebels)- • Looper
Background Music
Cinematic Nature Drone Documentary by Infraction [No Copyright Music] / Leaf- • Cinematic Nature Drone...

[@katherynedarrah4245]

Since it officially opened in 1926 it has been a family business. It's not been sold to some big corporation. Another thing I love about Knoebels? They actually care about the fact that some of us can't ride roller coasters. Most parks are 75% roller coaster, 10% flat ride (of which, 8% are kiddie rides) and 15% games and food. Knoebels has like 4 roller coasters.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I love the family owned aspect.

[@StamfordBridge]

I like the way you took Kozmo’s Kurves out of the number one spot and left it off the list entirely to give the other rides a sporting chance.

[@CanobieCoaster]

That's the number 0.

[@RvIvTheBand]

I think i know what video this comment is talking about lol

[@josiemcbride3646]

Ummm no. The Phenix is the best ride there. Taking that out would have left the others with a fighting chance. The last humps were added AFTER Dick bought it. He added them after renaming it the Phenix. Best decision ever. And Knobels is proof if you train people right you don't need a bunch of restrictions and the rides can still be fun. They don't have a lot of accidents compared to other parks. Yet they are the most laid back and it makes the rides fun.

[@CancelHappiness]

@@josiemcbride3646 twister is better

[@endangere_d1886]

nah we all know that Goin' Buggy is #1

[@beneciotheperson]

As a NEPA local, we are super proud of Knoebles. Definitely a must visit to any travelling to the Poconos and beyond.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Absolutely.

[@echotech2169]

i treasure it, glad i get to go there maybe 10 times a year

[@awaffle_]

fr, i only live about a 15 min drive away

[@maxholl2154]

@@awaffle_ you’re so lucky

[@lamy8224]

I've been going to knobles since I was a baby and have gone almost every year since. Going again today! 25 years and it never gets old. The rides, people, and food are amazing!

[@jackkilman8726]

Fun fact: the park was built around the original Knoebel family home, which is still occupied. They're not just passionate about their park, they actually live there! Also, there are cottages inside the park for rent, so you too can "live" at Knoebels for a few days!

[@CanobieCoaster]

Are those the ones by Twister?

[@JNB0723]

@@CanobieCoaster yes

[@chongpooka2769]

We gave up our Great Adventure memberships because how great our Knoebel’s trips were in August and October. Little bit more of a drive, but so much more worth it, my wife doesn’t even go on the rides, we have to drag her out of the Fascination parlor at the end of the day!

[@CanobieCoaster]

I just wish Knoebels had a season pass.

[@Jades_editss]

@@CanobieCoaster same.

[@Coyotek4]

The first time I ever got to Knoebels was in 2020 (so I never went pre-pandemic) ... but I've now been there a half-dozen times, with no sign of letting up. It's the *perfect* family amusement park! Free parking, free admissions, pay as you go (very nice since my wife and son don't ride many rides), and a wonderful mix of coasters and old-school flatrides. Throw in exceptional food and other services (not a lot of places left that offer Fascination!), not to mention that dogs are allowed (no kenneling our mutt!) ... it's well-worth the 3-hour trip for me, even with numerous closer options (SFGA, Dorney Park, any Jersey shore).

[@CanobieCoaster]

The park really has something for everyone.

[@easynhonest]

Take note enthusiasts, this is a person who has been to more amusement parks around the world than most of us and to hear him say it's one of his favorite parks in the world speaks volumes about this great park. Good reviews but I'm going to have to persuade him to move up a very historic ride of significance and I'll start by asking him if you would DESIRE having a Fandango, a Power Surge or an Impulse coaster installed in your back yard before Flying Turns? 😮

[@CanobieCoaster]

I agree Flying Turns is more significant. So I would be sadder if it left. However, I have more fun on Fandango, Power Surge, and Impulse.

[@willt6970]

this is a park I only heard of this year when I reignited my passion for amusement parks and roller coasters, and it honestly looks like one of the most underrated parks in the country even with Phoenix getting accolades every year. I can't wait to make it to Knoebels, the park atmosphere looks like it's 100% genuine and not at all forced, which I can only imagine makes the enjoyment from all the rides that much better. And I didn't know about their carousel at all before this video but since you've been to so many parks around the world and call it the best in the world, I'm inclined to agree after seeing a few of those clips; the charm that comes from a well-lit, well-sheltered, and well-maintained carousel like that looks infectious.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I think this park is fairly rated. Everyone praises it and rightfully so.

[@echotech2169]

hopefully you’ll come, pretty much everyone i know in our little town in PA treasures it and it rivals the likes of the massive hershey park if i’m going to be honest

[@tenorlove]

@@echotech2169 It's a thousand times better than Hershey.

[@echotech2169]

@@tenorlove Yeah because your not waiting in lines all day, i was at hershey for 8 hours and got on 2 rides, skyrush and fahrenheit

[@tenorlove]

​@@echotech2169 The only line I ever waited in for more than about 5 minutes was Flying Turns. Plus, Knoebels has free admission and entertainment. And you can bring outside food. We always had a picnic in the grove. We'd still eat a ton of park food. We always went to see The Mahoney Brothers and Rick K. Both of my sons had summer jobs there. It's one of my happy places.

[@t-rosebunnysadventures]

I will be coming here on Monday . I’m so excited because I have such history with this park and I can’t wait to show my love and passion for roller coasters in amusement parks

[@CanobieCoaster]

Enjoy!

[@x570Belmont]

Don't forget about another amazing part of Knoebels as well. THE FOOD! Oh gods the food. Eating there all day long is heaven.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Love all the food and it's reasonably priced.

[@TheMrLebaron]

I mostly agree, tho as much as I LOVE Phoenix I think Twister is better. And I love the Grand Carosol. THey actually have another full sized one and a kiddie one, there are a total of band organs in the park, thats why it feels like being in a game of roller coaster tycoon. You should do a video on the food to. And on the third train they have that almost no one knows about called old Smokey. It still uses a small coal fired locomotive thats over 100 years old that the family used at one point to move lumber to their sawmill. The family that owns it doesnt take just the park history seriously, that entire area was based on coal mining to feed the Steel Mills in Johnstown and Pittsburghs coke ovens and blast furnances. And lumber to build houses in said cities/towns. Thats why they have a whole building mostly dedicated to mining history, and TONS of woodworking exihibits

[@CanobieCoaster]

I have a review going into more detail, including the food. I agree there is so much to see and do here.

[@HeatherLandon227]

I need to get back here someday- grew up going here every summer. I love the story they put into Black Diamond and connecting it to the nearby Centralia mine fire. Also- when you're in the area and not going to the park, visit the mine museum in Ashland, it's a decent sized complex and you can also get a ride into a mine (providing it's safe to do so).

[@CanobieCoaster]

I do like how the park tied Black Diamond to the locality.

[@CivilianSatellite]

There are rides at around spot 15 that you would think make the top 5, but Knoebels just has such a stacked lineup of quality rides. Also, the drop on Stratosphere somehow feels longer than drop towers twice its height; it almost punches a hole in the ground with how late it brakes.

[@CanobieCoaster]

It feels just as long to me, but it feels a smidge more powerful.

[@Bigbadmonstah]

my nan and pap would take us to knoebels every year when we were young, im going with my mom this august and i cant wait to go their again. so many memories!

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@kellyjoyost]

I always loved the swings & Gallion too

[@CanobieCoaster]

I've never done Galleon.

[@TheEvilmonkey1216]

The one time I went to knoebels me and my brother caught the last cycle of the day of the scooters and the employee let it go on for over 5 minutes, 5 minutes of snapping was one of the wildest ride experiences I’ve ever had

[@CanobieCoaster]

The ops here are great.

[@adamkincaidmusic]

im 27 and have camped here every year of my life. the rides and atmosphere never get old its amazing. dorney is my home park but i grew tired of it and only go for the haunt or Wild Water Kingdom

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@xartemisstarsx]

Downdraft definitely surprised me when I went on it for the first time- My 7 year old cousin said he loved the ride and wanted me to go with him, so I thought “It’s probably not that intense” I was pleasantly surprised, it’s definitely one of my favorites!

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's a great spinning ride.

[@VillasByrne]

Cool. I was expecting Flying Turn ms and Haunted Mantion a whole lot higher! Can't wait to visit this park at some point!

[@TheMrLebaron]

Probably one of the best parks I've ever been to. Free to get into, you can get a wristband on weekdays, or pay for tickets.Everthing is VERY well taken care of, very clean, you can bring in your own food into the shelters that have FREE GRILLS AND COOLERS to keep your food, or you can snack on the park food if you want, which is not expensive. I got a full on breakfast and yes they do breakfast, French Toast, Bacon, Susage, home fries eggs and a bottle of water for 8 yollars, I think my wife got pancakes and a coffay, and it was like 3 dollars. Their operations are perfect. And you can even bring in your dog and take the dog on the trains! Parking is also completely free, the campgrounds and cabins you can rent are dirt cheap, the local hotels are cheap to. Last time we went the couple that came with us with their 3 kids got a flat tire in the parking lot, park staff came out, took off the tire, drove it up the road to get patched, put it back on for them free of charge.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Those two rides are great, but there are several rides I prefer. This park is loaded.

[@VillasByrne]

@@TheMrLebaron really sounds like a perfect park for charm!

[@VillasByrne]

@@CanobieCoaster I can understand. They all look amaizing

[@OklahomaCoasterFan]

In my limited experience, Phoenix then Twister are my favorites and probably will remain so. This list gives me an idea of what to make sure I do if I'm able to get a good day here.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I definitely think you need to give them another try.

[@mattpatti390]

Can’t believe how low Black Diamond is. It’s top 5 for me. Sure it’s not a thrilling coaster and you’re right in the fact that it’s more of a dark ride than a coaster but that’s fine IMO. The theming is super creepy and interesting and it’s so dark that you can’t really tell where you’re going next.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I wish you went slower through the scenes.

[@mattpatti390]

@@CanobieCoaster I can respect that, though I do kind of like how briskly the ride moves. Makes it feel more out of control, a tad scarier, and like you’re actually in a mine shaft and trying to escape.

[@randomtraveler9854]

@@CanobieCoaster I actually like the speed of Black Diamond because missing some of the scenes and seeing them the second time is part of the fun.

[@daffers2345]

I love the theming of _Black Diamond._ We rode it when it was new and we were laughing at the Centralia sign and the theme at that portion. I like how they made it ride through the "coal fire" after the pit. My favorite little painted scene is the angels carrying away the souls of the dead miners. It's easy to miss, so keep an eye out for it if you've never seen it before. ^.^

[@SkyrushFanboy]

Haunted mansion is my favorite dark ride of all time, and Phoenix and twister are in my top ten overall. I love Knoebels and I'm glad I only live 3 and a half hours away from there

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@SlimFury]

My top 10 10 Skloosh, I will always enjoy these types of rides 9 Power Surge, I love the disorientation of this ride 8 Grand Carousel, this is the only Carousel that I will ride. The ring dispenser is addictive. 7 Pioneer Train, I enjoy the wooded setting and wildlife feeders. I once had a heavy thunderstorms roll in while riding though. 6 Flying Turns, I respect the ambition of Knoebels and the ride for it's one of a kind experince. 5 Super Roundup, This ride is very powerful. 4 Impulse, this was a great fit for Knoebels. 3 Stratsofear, ARM drop towers are the best ones. I love how you drop with no warning and how your rear end stays off the seat until the end. Number 2 and 1 are interchangeable for me. Phoenix and Twister, these are both excellent wood coasters. The airtime on Phoenix is great and I always enjoy a twisted layout. Plus both are well maintained. The 42 inch height requirement is very generous.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice list!

[@mattyorshin]

Love this park

[@CanobieCoaster]

Me too.

[@maxdrive007]

I love this place I live in central PA so this is a regular stop during the summer. It has some of the best food of all amusement parks. Which ot even won awards for even has items that the big places have like Disney ie dole whip.

[@CanobieCoaster]

The food is amazing.

[@crybabyuwu2559]

Always went here as a kid and half of the rides on here are new. I'm gonna be returning there in a couple days so I'm excited:>

[@CanobieCoaster]

Enjoy!

[@cookieplz93]

Going tomorrow for opening day!!! 😍 So pumped for my woodies!!!

[@CanobieCoaster]

Have fun!

[@christinasnowden2276]

Twister is my favorite. Got me over my fear of heights

[@CanobieCoaster]

I prefer Phoenix, but Twister is also great.

[@jenniferranck3312]

I ❤Knoebels it’s a very special place 😊😊

[@CanobieCoaster]

I love it too.

[@nmi5]

Me and my family have been going every summer for the past 6 years and occasionally during the Halloween season as well and can never get enough of this place. Its atmosphere is completely unmatched and like you stress in the video the maintenance they do on their older rides to keep them not just operating but feeling like new is amazing. Aside from the rides they have good food and some very fun attractions, especially fascination. Last summer I managed to catch phoenix at the perfect time, about an hour to closing on a not so busy day and managed to just cycle the ride about 6 times before the park closed for the day. Another thing is that if you get lucky and manage to rent a cottage in the park you get to wake up in the morning to the sounds of rides starting up for the day. Absolutely incredible place.

[@CanobieCoaster]

It really has a special feel.

[@jakethegamer3974]

Just went there yesterday would definitely recommend!

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's amazing.

[@ShaniyaDoyle]

I Love this park, I like how it’s free admission and the ride all day pass has a reasonable price also you can camp there I camp for a week every year!

[@CanobieCoaster]

I love that aspect too.

[@JNB0723]

Cosmotron has such a good gimmick and I think that is extremely fun for teenagers. I'd say a top 10...

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's fun, but I prefer other Himalayas.

[@artic3316]

I go here every year I'm glad people actually have heard of this I know this park like the back of my hand 🤣🤣 the twister is my favorite ride because if you sit in the back it lifts up for a bit off the track

[@CanobieCoaster]

I like Phoenix more.

[@daffers2345]

I'm glad others visit Knoebels at least yearly. My friend and I have been going up twice a year -- we just love it! So much to do and see. The Grand Carousel's outer ring (where you can grab the rings) has become so popular that they had to make a separate line for it. They've bought a Rock-o-Plane and will probably be running it in spring of 2024

[@NotAbiRose]

Me and my family go here every may with friends and I love it

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@Coyotek4]

Personal Top 10: (1) Phoenix (2) Impulse (3) the Log Flume (4) the Bumper Cars (5) the Haunted Mansion (6) Twister (7) the Fliers (8) the Satellite (9) the Whip (10) Downdraft NR: Flying Turns ... hasn't been running since I started going. Maybe in 2022. I really want to try this!

[@CanobieCoaster]

Hopefully you can get on Flying Turns!

[@antonettagersbach5483]

My top 10: 1. Rockin Tug 2. Haunted Mansion 3. Merry Mixer 4. Downdraft 5. Balloon Race 6. Phoenix 7. Paratrooper 8. Tea Cups 9. Galleon 10. Kozmo's Kurves

[@Katclem77]

I'm going to Knobels next month so I hope Flying Turns is open, I never went on it before.

[@steepchild_88lol82]

Good video..knoebels is my home park.go about 3 times a year. I love the Whipper and ferris wheel and the scrambler

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@casinogaming2182]

The looper is soooooo fun, and the phoenix is always fun. But the flume is the best family ride 100% the pioneer train is a close second

[@CanobieCoaster]

Those are all fun.

[@masimiand]

I like that

[@Jades_editss]

I love knobles, I’ve been going sinc3 I was born and I recognize every part of it. My Pap used to operate the train ride until he retired..

[@CanobieCoaster]

That's cool! The staff there are great.

[@Carsandplanes15]

I love the giant flume

[@CanobieCoaster]

Me too.

[@randomtraveler9854]

I personally like the first drop better than the second because you skid across the water.

[@randallgornal9576]

Knoebels is Awsome 🐕👊®️

[@CanobieCoaster]

Indeed!

[@randallgornal9576]

@@CanobieCoaster Thanks.. Rollercoaster's are the Best. Front Seat, Always, and let come off the rails, INDEED!!!!😂😂😂😂😂😂🤪😋👊📣😳😁🇺🇸🤔🐿️Kosmo, is Awsome 👍....

[@fujicakes_]

This was the only theme park I went to growing up. I haven’t been there in almost 6 years and I’m so exited to go this summer.

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's amazing.

[@RLucas3000]

I’m surprised you didn’t mention the Ferris Wheel! Also, the world’s only trackless roller coaster down at 13?!

[@CanobieCoaster]

That speaks to how stacked this park is.

[@tedansley]

Nice video however, IMHO Black Diamond is a top 10 ride, as are the Pioneer Train and Flying Turns, which is top 5 for me. I just feel like you've got some normal modern flat rides above these amazing classics.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I agree Pioneer Train, Flying Turns, and Black Diamond are more unique but I have more fun on some of the modern ones.

[@MrKeyz-yy6vd]

Here’s 3 secrets when riding the Phoenix. (I’ve lived in PA my whole life and learned these from family and myself) -Hold you hands on the bar facing upwards, meaning wrists and fingernails are visible from your regular seat. It’ll hold you down closer to the seat on the bumps. -Keep your feet flat. As the coaster makes you fly out of your seat, push your ankles down, so when you come back, you’ll land on the balls of your feet onto your heels for a better landing. -Sit on the far side when boarding. Most of the faster turns are turning left, so no one would squish you if you are riding with someone else.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice tips! I still like going hands up.

[@JNB0723]

​@CanobieCoaster same. I went 2 years ago when I weighed 130, and I was practically standing for the entirety of the ride, and I loved it.

[@joanwood9480]

I remember the flyer ride at a park on Oneida Lake. We have movies of my father and sister on this ride. I was just a little girl. Maybe early 1960's.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Was it as fast?

[@joanwood9480]

@@CanobieCoaster early 60's so I don't remember fast so much as how you could really maneuver it to fly where you wanted.

[@melissajaskiewicz2105]

i grew up on the phoenix so mostly my summer would b camping with my grandparents but they recently passed on so i want to spend most of the time with my son

[@CanobieCoaster]

I'm sorry to hear they passed away.

[@TheMrLebaron]

Also when it comes to history, coal from this area of PA that the park is located in got shipped off by barge and rail to fuel the blast furances and coke ovens ( its all electric now, not as much coal needed )to Steel Miils like Cedar Thompson, which not only is still operating, is VERY ironicly across the river from Kennywood

[@Coyotek4]

Knoebels isn't far from the ill-fated town of Centralia, if visitors are curious.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Isn't Centralia the town referenced at the end of Black Diamond?

[@Coyotek4]

@@CanobieCoaster I think so.

[@Rio1910_]

I haven’t been to Knowles seines I was like 6 or 8. now I’m 12 and I can’t wait to go back.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Hopefully!

[@echotech2169]

My favorite memory is on the sky lift, my friends mom was behind us and started screaming cause there was a giant spider, she literally picked it up and threw it, while she was suffering we were laughing

[@CanobieCoaster]

Wow!

[@MattMcIrvin]

I had no idea that Knoebels has a mountain skyride like the old one at Compounce (RIP). I have not been here but it's a bucket-list park for me for an unusual reason: Elitch's Mr. Twister was my first big coaster. (It was a doozy--going from only having ridden a Mine Train, to a buzzbar-only contraption whose first move after the lift hill is to try to yeet you sideways into space 90 feet up and THEN give you the big drop into headchopper land, scared the living bejesus out of me.)

[@CanobieCoaster]

This park really has a lot of unique stuff.

[@Thuggysmurf]

Visited Knoebels Wednesday June 8, 2022. Felt like stepping back in time 60 years to a more pleasant version of America. They ran one-train ops on Phoenix, Twister, and Impulse. Those coasters had lines, so no walk-ons or marathons, with Impulse being the longest at 30 minutes (lower capacity + run by teenagers while the others were run by adults). Black Diamond and Flying Turns were closed. According to the ride operators, all the coasters during weekdays are one-train ops now. The airtime on Phoenix was solid, but Looper was easily my favorite ride - never experienced anything like that - it's not just somersaults, but also great hang time if you work the pedal right and have a partner who weighs a lot less (I rode with my daughter). The antique car ride, train ride (with 2-train ops!), flying scooters, and carousel were the best versions I've experienced anywhere for those ride types. The sky ride looked fun but that was closed. There were a number of rides/features offered at Knoebels that would not be feasible at other parks due to the difference in clientele. When you see a ceiling fan at a major amusement park covered by a metal cage and realize that at one point the fan wasn't covered, it makes you appreciate the "charm" of Knoebels. My wife put this park in her top 3. I enjoyed Knoebels and will revisit, but as a coaster junkie, the coaster lineup wasn't enough for the park to crack my top 20.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Glad to hear Looper was open again!

[@cameronfansler2136]

Sky Slide SNUBBED

[@CanobieCoaster]

I do enjoy that ride though. It's a fast slide.

[@jonathanfrancesco3305]

I'd rank Flying Turns a lot higher, but yes, these are probably the elite. Skloosh deserves some love too, as I get significantly wetter on it than on comparable "shoot the chutes." Knoebels has an awesome collection of rides. Nothing's record breaking, because it doesn't need to be. If there's one hole, I'd like to see the park take on a proper "big" steel coaster focused on airtime over inversions. A "Steel Phoneix" if you will. I think this park would be perfect for something like a "Mega Lite" which isn't in America at this time. They obviously will never get one of those Giga or Hyper coasters like the corporate parks. They don't need one. Hence why I think something like a Mega Lite could work well, encapsulize the thrill of those bigger rides into a smaller package closer to Knoebel's typical coaster heights.

[@CanobieCoaster]

The Hopkins shoot the chutes are soakers.

[@Oblio1942]

i felt like I was going to die on phenix, 10/10

[@CanobieCoaster]

I love that ride.

[@vivienneefird8743]

I bit my tongue on the phoenix and it would not stop bleeding

[@BabbaIsKool]

I went here in July when I visted my family in NY this was fun

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@alantrotter2077]

Phoenix is the top ride at Knoebels. It is in my overall Top 20. I still need to get on Flying Turns, the drop tower, and a few of the flats, including the Flyers, but I doubt they will compare. Twister was quite good as was the Haunted Manson. I think I would move up Power Surge slightly.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Did you visit during covid when a lot was closed?

[@alantrotter2077]

@@CanobieCoaster I actually visited at the start of last season. It was the Friday before Memorial Day. A lot of things needed to be set up

[@Stratiis]

I visited during coaster con 43 so I got to ride everything. My personal favorite at the park is flying turns just for how unique it is. Phoenix is a close second.

[@eddiejadams]

A ride that wasn’t mentioned was The Swings…rotating around sitting on a swing … go up and down … it’s a must ride for me… just went to Knoebels last Wednesday

[@CanobieCoaster]

That one is usually closed for me.

[@daffers2345]

The Italian Trapeze IS a nice one. It is a beautiful Zamperla. My parents just love it. :)

[@derisleybrittain]

Excellent quality 🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺💕💕💕💕💕🥰🥰🥰❤️❤️😻😻😻😻😻

[@CanobieCoaster]

Thanks!

[@moogooguypan2514]

We go there once or twice a year, just to ride the satellite, even though we like so many of the other rides, the satellite is the best, and it’s a rare

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's a fun one, but I prefer the coasters.

[@daffers2345]

I like how Knoebels is known for saving and keeping older rides. They just bought a Rock-O-Plane in 2023, from a Texas park that closed. Other rare rides they have include Looper, Flying Turns, and their teacups ride (actually a Crazy Daisy -- the cups go in a figure-8).

[@charlieeaken1046]

I just went today I love it we go at least 8 times a summer

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@ThrillsofColdplay]

I’ve only ridden Phoenix, Twister, Satellite, Flying Turns, Impulse Power Surge and Stratosphere

[@CanobieCoaster]

At least you've ridden all the major coasters.

[@Whatchamawhozit]

I worked at Knoebels from 90-95 then returned one summer in 99. The park has grown so much and gets better and better but also gets busier every year... During the week Mon-Fri you could a lot of rides in on each attraction even with Phoenix just running one train... but the weekends... forget it. Itw as elbow room only. Knoebels is the best family park IMHO and I am not just saying that as a former employee... Even after I stopped working there I made regular trips every year... although as I have aged and bones started to ache more I do limit my ride time to 1-2 rides on the phoenix and twister, everything else is 1x per ride except the flume, my 7 yr old loves it so we'll get at least 15 rides per visit.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I much prefer visiting on weekdays mainly for the wristband.

[@daffers2345]

I love Knoebels! It's one of my favorite places. My friend and I go twice a year, once in spring (we both love the Flume) and once in fall, when we also like to visit the craft fair, which is now held in Bloomsburg. The only ones with which I disagree are the Satellite and StratosFEAR. My friend and I get too much vertigo on Satellite, and StratosFEAR seemed to quite literally mess up my brain -- which I guess is part of its appeal! However, I prefer the unique feel of _Paratrooper_ and the _Mad Hatter's Teacups,_ which is actually a Crazy Daisy, not a true teacup ride. Despute my personal dislike of _Satellite_ I am still very glad that Knoebels has kept it, along with other old rides. When Joyland, TX shut down in 2023, Knoebels immediately bought their Rock-o-Plane. We're visiting in May 2024 and I am looking forward to riding on it.

[@CanobieCoaster]

The only ride there that makes me queasy is Galleon of all things.

[@dbratboy92]

Although twister on paper is a better coaster. Taller, faster, longer, probably more g forces. Phoenix is the better coaster in real life. Twister feels refined and safe. Phoenix feels like you are literally going to be thrown out of your train. It is one of those coasters you can binge ride, over and over and it still keeps the adrenaline pumping.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Phoenix is magical with those restraints.

[@rrperformance1]

I feel like the tilt-a-whirl should be on the list. Your right on most of the others though.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Just missed.

[@goremageddon4]

Knoebels is one of my favorite parks in the world, and I love everything about it...BUT, while it's a silly thing, I will never ride Looper again. As a kid I had a giant paint chip fall into my eye on it. Horrible. Scarred for life. haha

[@StamfordBridge]

Yikes.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Yikes, that's not good.

[@guepir]

do they have games? im going in may so im trying to get a better image of what to expect.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Yes they do. Fascination is the best one.

[@karmamarie5614]

The impulse is my favorite

[@CanobieCoaster]

That's a good one, but I prefer the big two wood coasters.

[@ethan-nol6934]

ive been to knobles many many times aslso thanks for pronouncing it right so many people say tis just "nobels" ive been to the waterpark and i would say dont waste your time. to mutch hassle adn you cnat go on the other rides in swim trunks or while wet. (edit) ngl im disapointed you didnt bring up the paratrooprt or tilta-wirl. those ar emy favs

[@CanobieCoaster]

I tried the water park last year. It's nice to try on days when it opens before the rides.

[@ethan-nol6934]

@@CanobieCoaster it opens before the rides? I didn't actually know that I thought the whole park opened at the same time.

[@karmamarie5614]

Knoebels is fun

[@CanobieCoaster]

Yes

[@randallgornal9576]

Hi Karma, yes diffently, is fun, and good food and the Ice cream, and all, is just a nice time, there. Wooden Roller Coaster's are the Best...Love them...👊😋... Hopefully, going soon, wouldn't mind Company?📣😳🤔😁🏓🏸🎶🤐😘

[@kylejuray9927]

I love downdraft 😁

[@CanobieCoaster]

Me too.

[@XVI-Drew1]

I have went here throughout my childhood yet, it’s still my favorite amusement park. What do you mean by snapping the cords?

[@CanobieCoaster]

Look up videos of people snapping Flyer. You put slack in the cable and when it releaes, your tub gets flung.

[@XVI-Drew1]

Thank you!

[@jukingeo]

Yes, I agree, Phoenix is the best wooden coaster I have ridden! BUT, Lake Compounce's Boulder Dash is more awesome at night.

[@CanobieCoaster]

Boulder Dash is an elite night ride.

[@jukingeo]

@@CanobieCoaster Yup! I still have yet to top that coaster for a night ride. I would possibly think Holiday World's Raven coaster might be good too as that coaster also takes a romp through the woods.

[@chrissytinarose]

My only problem with phoenix is the lap bar doesn’t go down far enough so if you’re 5’6 or shorter you have to hang on to stay in.

[@CanobieCoaster]

The ride is safe for anyone taller than 42".

[@chrissytinarose]

@@CanobieCoaster I’m 5’6 and was standing up at every hill it throws you up at, my poor sister in law is 5’1 and was hanging on for dear life. Granted we were in the back cart.

[@emilyaitch8143]

@@chrissytinarose I'm 5'2" and that's exactly why I LOVE the Phoenix!!

[@spooney4064]

Fun fact if you are in like the third or fourth car on the twister you can see the front cars right wheel literally lift off the track on the last turn up top before the main drop lol

[@CanobieCoaster]

Wow!

[@aubreylukwago1998]

I got on the power surge with my friends and we was scarming

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@ThrillsofColdplay]

Even though Phoenix has more and powerful airtime I loved Twister more not by much

[@thomasxl200]

Same here. I think Twister honestly has stellar airtime in the front too

[@CanobieCoaster]

I much prefer Phoenix since I'm a big airtime fan.

[@Lineborojuniors]

I'm 12 and I went there whene I was probably 5 with my family and my old neighbor and I'm 12 now I really miss it and some of it I have not been to

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's a great park.

[@Transition333]

Like no else?? That’s not a word.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I thought it was a phrase.

[@georgettethesinger]

i like the twister

[@CanobieCoaster]

Me too.

[@sierragriglak7420]

When I get off the Stratosphere my legs shake so much

[@CanobieCoaster]

Such an intimidating ride.

[@daffers2345]

When StratosFEAR was new, I foolishly decided to ride on it. It actually felt like it had done something weird to my brain. Afterward, I made my sister take me on the Antique Cars and I made her be "driver," which annoyed her. XD Later that day, I made her ride StratosFEAR with me. After THAT time, we both sat quietly at a picnic table for about 10 minutes to recover. When that truck disengages with that *CLUNK!* at the top and you start free-falling, your brain's primal instincts really kick in!

[@kjstrainrun7746]

No love for theTilt a whirl? I love spinning so fast you cant walk when you get off. Also the Hunted Mansion is awsome!

[@CanobieCoaster]

I like the Tilt-a-Whirl, but I prefer these 20 rides.

[@kjstrainrun7746]

@@CanobieCoaster Tilt a whirl is king!

[@johnnyquick5189]

cosmotron mad underrated

[@CanobieCoaster]

It's fun, but I prefer other himalayas.

[@davedoesthingsdreaded]

That's a big statement saying that carousel is the best in the world. In spokane we have one over 100 years old, hand painted and does the brass ring and it's bigger that that little one

[@CanobieCoaster]

I'll have to check that one out. My second and third favorites are the ones at Santa Cruz and Martha's Vineyard respectively. Those are two more ring carousels.

[@B1rthdayLux]

When I went to knobels with my aunt we were going on the power swerve bc i wanted to but during in line the ride got stuck soooo I'm glad I didn't get on xd

[@CanobieCoaster]

That ride sadly breaks a lot.

[@jtwoolley]

fast ride

[@CanobieCoaster]

Which one?

[@Bellaisstellastudio]

I love knoebels and seen going there since I was what, 6?

[@CanobieCoaster]

Nice!

[@mrsDubbs844]

Does this park still have 1001 nachts?

[@CanobieCoaster]

No, it was removed. I believe that's where the new Bayern Kurve is going.

[@ChasinTracks]

the flyer ride almost killed me In dizzyness when I was at another park

[@CanobieCoaster]

It can be disorienting if you're soaring about.

[@xJengie]

Still bummed Whirlwind and High Speed Thrill Coaster are gone...they were fun.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I never got to try Whirlwind.

[@daffers2345]

_Whirlwind_ was my first upside-down coaster. Last I heard it was sold to a park in Mexico ... not sure if it's still there.

[@ThrillsofColdplay]

I never rode Looper I don’t think I would like it it’s that type of ride with the constant spinning motion in one direction

[@CanobieCoaster]

You can choose not to rock it.

[@denone5327]

My only visit was in summer of 2021 and a lot of rides were closed, presumably because of staff shortages. So, unfortunately I don’t think I got the full Knoebels experience and didn’t come away as impressed as other coaster and theme park enthusiasts seem to be. I guess I’ll have to go back.

[@TheMrLebaron]

The park is pretty large for being in such a rural area with a super low population denisty. Plus at the time, PA was still under a lot of restrictions. When the park is running at 100%, I'll take it over Dollywood, Silverwood, or any Cedar Fair park. Its that good Great rides, great food, insanely nice workers. The onnly thing I never liked about that park is the first time I took my now wife to it. It was the second park shes ever been to ( in the South of France where shes from not many parks ). She rode the Phoenix, then announced she like Cornball Express and Hoosier Hurricane at Indiana Beach more, hated her for a solid 37 seconds

[@thomasxl200]

Same here, thankfully Phoenix and Twister were open but Flying Turns was closed. It was charming but I expected more I guess.

[@BabbaIsKool]

yeah I also came in summer of 2021, its sad that some of the rides were closed, but I stil had a good time

[@Coyotek4]

I can vouch for the ride closures (never got to ride the Round-up, which my daughter really wanted to try), but give Knoebels credit for keeping the big-ticket rides open. I went three times in 2021, and Phoenix, Twister, Impulse, and the Haunted Mansion were open every time (and the log flume was open the first two times; my last trip was in the fall so that was shut down by then).

[@CanobieCoaster]

Usually they have everything going and long hours, but I know they've struggled with staffing the past two years.

[@skyguyismyguyr12turn]

Is this park in your top 5 right now?

[@CanobieCoaster]

For US parks, yes.

[@bencrew2626]

This has got to be one of the most horrendous lists I've ever seen in my entire life

[@CanobieCoaster]

Sorry you aren't a fan, but everyone will rank things differently.

[@jakques]

Tbh I would have not ranked satellite at all since I went to the park yesterday and I rode satellite with my cousin and on the ride i kept getting shoved to my left side and got a bruise and it did feel painful

[@CanobieCoaster]

Oh no!

[@jakques]

@@CanobieCoaster ya not going on that again

[@mitchellries256]

Let's say this park one day decided to go from a free admission park to a regular park where you pay to enter and then ride whatever you want afterwards. Do you think that would make the park better, just as good or worse if they did that?

[@CanobieCoaster]

Since I always get the wristband, it would be the same for me. But I think it would change some of the atmosphere of people just walking around.

[@OldsVistaCruiser]

It would severely diminish the quality of the park. In its current configuration, families can come where not all members ride rides.

[@chachaarealsmoothh]

Kennywoods my #1, change my mind

[@CanobieCoaster]

Great park.

[@urbex_coasters]

I will respectfully disagree with your comment about Knobles caroucel being the best in the world. I'd say it's second best, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has the best because they add the lights and bell to the ring game, ie not just a game to grab the ring but also a game to throw it in the mouth. Knobles doesn't really have that element since the lion doesn't have the light up eyes and a bell the clown has. Other than that I generally agree with the rides on this list although I'd put the woodies as the top 3. They compliment each other quite nicely although I can understand not putting Flying Turns in the top 3 since it's rarely open and when I went it was only open during private hours for ACE because it requires a lot of people to run it so I immagine it's rarely open.

[@CanobieCoaster]

I agree the throwing element is cool on Santa Cruz, but I prefer the look and sound of this one. Santa Cruz is a close 2nd though.

[@OldsVistaCruiser]

The Golden Ticket Award was retired for the carousel category because it was undefeated.

[@urbex_coasters]

@@OldsVistaCruiser I think Santa Cruz should've had some wins in there. There are legitimate reasons to argue either is the best caroucel in the world: Santa Cruz has more to the ring grabbing, Knobles is more ornate, whichever an individual values more will be the best for them. For me, adding the lights and bells to have a throwing element with the rings gives Santa Cruz the edge.

[@thepanos8197]

No skloosh? Easily in my top 10. I also like the swings. Good list otherwise

[@CanobieCoaster]

Those rides are fun. Just not in my top 20.