Knoebels’ dream to operate a train into the woods outside of the park.” The third and “youngest” train, Ole Smokey, joined the ride lineup late in the 1960s and replaced Nickle Plate. “One aspect that makes Ole Smokey unique is that it’s a miniature steam train powered by anthracite coal,” Dick Knoebel said. “And while the engine was new, the cars from Nickle Plate were used and continue to be used today.” Guests pass under the Twister roller coaster, and chug through the peaceful woods beyond the park. Glimpsing deer or squirrels along the way is a definite possibility. “It’s also one of the Knoebels rides that truly spans generations from grandparents to parents and young children to even the family pet,” Dick Knoebel said. “That ability to bring the entire family on board is a big part of what has made the Pioneer Train a beloved Knoebels favorite for decades.” Another unique Knoebels feature: the campground, which opened in 1963 with nine campsites and now offers more than 600. Guests can opt for the Park Campground, just steps away from the park – the Twister roller coaster is the only alarm clock you’ll need each morning. For a more scenic experience, go for the Lake Glory Campground just a few miles down the road. “Just like the park itself, we are lucky to have many legacy families with multiple generations return year after year, many rebooking before they even check out,” Brian Knoebel commented. “While availability can be hard to come by during our summer weekends, we recommend checking our weekday availability. Weekdays are a wonderful time to visit the park, too!” Sometimes people just need a little eerie shiver in the middle of a hot, summer day. Knoebels’ Haunted Mansion, opened in 1973, is happy to oblige. “It’s wonderful to see something built in-house over fifty years ago continue to thrill over generations, while receiving continued recognition from organizations such as Dark Attraction & Funhouse Enthusiasts (DAFE),” Brian Knoebel said. “For me and many team members, those awards serve as a reminder that heart, creativity, teamwork and commitment matter.” Operating an amusement park for 100 years comes with challenges. With creeks running through the park, Knoebels has faced sometimes devastating floods. “Most of the time the creeks are our best friends. Our guests love the natural beauty of the park, and the two creeks that flow through it are an important part of that. Every once in a while, however, they become our worst enemy,” Brian Knoebel acknowledged.
After major floods such as Agnes in 1972, and especially the 2006 flood, 90 percent of the park was under water. The Knoebels team has always rallied to repair and reopen as quickly as possible, Brian Knoebel said, adding, “There is a kind of resilience born from those hardships.” He appreciates “the positives,” like the team persisting to rebuild, and loyal fans offering to help then showing their support by coming out in droves once the park reopened. Joy Through the Grove was also a response to a challenge. The Christmas drive-through light display launched in 2020, helping to brighten the holiday spirit after COVID had shut down many businesses and events. “It’s been wonderful to witness Joy Through the Grove become a tradition for so many. It’s an event the entire family can enjoy … including the family pet,” Brian Knoebel said. “Guests visiting select Thursdays through Sundays can enjoy some extra holiday fun at Knoebels’ Christmas Village at Three Ponds Golf Course: snap photos with Santa, feast on grab-and-go food items and shop for the Knoebels fan on your list, all while enjoying outdoor Christmas displays, a fire pit and s’mores.” Knoebels holds a place in the hearts of locals and out-of-state visitors alike. So many of us have childhood/teenage memories of the park, whether from specific rides that we bravely conquered, rolling through the woods on Ole Smokey, or even just seeing the unique buildings like the Alamo, the Hawaiian Bandshell, the stone pillars entrance or the Grand Carousel – Knoebels is a part of our summers. We’ll all enjoy celebrating its 100th birthday. “It will be a season-long celebration that honors our past and looks forward to the future!” Yutko said. “Guests can anticipate special events, exclusive merchandise, and more.” “It’s honestly humbling to think about as we celebrate 100 years as a timeless hometown amusement resort,” Brian Knoebel mused. “Walking through the park each morning as it comes alive, anticipating the excitement, hearing the laughter of children, and smelling the incredible aroma of award- winning food … it never gets old. There’s a real sense of joy in the air, a kind of timeless delight.” He’s mindful of the fact that Knoebels gives families a place to “escape their troubles” and create positive memories. Even during the hectic summer weekends or “those exhausting floods,” the dedication of the Knoebels team and family members, along with the gratitude from guests, makes it all worthwhile. “We know what we’re creating isn’t just a ride or a candy apple,” Brian Knoebel said. “It’s a part of people’s life stories.”
Giant Flume, 1990 This will cool you off! Opened in 1990, the Giant Flume offers two thrilling drops that are always a big splash.
2026 TRAVEL GUIDE 29
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