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Knoebels Amusement Resort
Deep in the woods of central Pennsylvania, off a winding two-lane road, sits an oasis―Knoebels Amusement Resort. With over 60 rides of all types, along with two campgrounds and a golf course, Knoebels advertises itself as America’s largest free-admission amusement park.
It has come a long way since 1926, when Hartman Henry Knoebel first opened a swimming pool, restaurant, and carousel at his farm outside Elysburg. It was one of dozens of small picnic parks located in the region at the time. But unlike its onetime peers, Knoebels managed to thrive and grow under the careful stewardship of five generations of the Knoebel family, adding transformative attractions such as the Grand Carousel in 1942, Haunted Mansion in 1973, Phoenix in 1985, Twister in 1999, and Flying Turns in 2013. Today, Knoebels Amusement Resort is a beloved institution drawing countless visitors annually.
Jim Futrell, historian for the National Amusement Park Historical Association and International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, has passionately studied the amusement park industry for over 50 years and in that time has authored dozens of articles and 10 books on the industry.
It has come a long way since 1926, when Hartman Henry Knoebel first opened a swimming pool, restaurant, and carousel at his farm outside Elysburg. It was one of dozens of small picnic parks located in the region at the time. But unlike its onetime peers, Knoebels managed to thrive and grow under the careful stewardship of five generations of the Knoebel family, adding transformative attractions such as the Grand Carousel in 1942, Haunted Mansion in 1973, Phoenix in 1985, Twister in 1999, and Flying Turns in 2013. Today, Knoebels Amusement Resort is a beloved institution drawing countless visitors annually.
Jim Futrell, historian for the National Amusement Park Historical Association and International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, has passionately studied the amusement park industry for over 50 years and in that time has authored dozens of articles and 10 books on the industry.
128 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
May 6, 2026
Growing up near Knoebel's, this book brought me back to younger days. Talking about the new rides coming in and the old ones being retired, I can remember them as something missed. The book is a wonderful history of a wonderful park.
September 18, 2026
If you love Knoebels or amusement park history in general, you’ll love this. Commemorating its 100th year anniversary, Knoebels is the country’s largest free-admission park. What makes it even more unique is its combination of modern and vintage rides. This book takes a look through its introduction and removal of various rides, along with its survival as many parks in the state failed to withstand various social and economic plights.
A few things: I wish that there were colored photos (when possible). I think a map of the park would’ve been a great inclusion to get a sense of where things are at, especially for readers who have never visited the park.
I went here a lot as I grew up, so this was really cool to see how much it has changed. Knoebels is a real gem! The last of its kind! I feel so privileged to have experienced it.
A few things: I wish that there were colored photos (when possible). I think a map of the park would’ve been a great inclusion to get a sense of where things are at, especially for readers who have never visited the park.
I went here a lot as I grew up, so this was really cool to see how much it has changed. Knoebels is a real gem! The last of its kind! I feel so privileged to have experienced it.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews