SouthernWorldwide.com – In a surprising contrast to the increasingly expensive landscape of modern entertainment, Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, continues to uphold a century-old tradition: free admission.
The beloved amusement park first opened its gates on July 4, 1926, and this year, it is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary concurrently with the United States’ semiquincentennial.
This commitment to free entry is a rarity in today’s world of theme parks that often feature hefty admission fees.
Historically, many amusement parks established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly those known as “trolley parks,” did not charge an entrance fee. Their revenue streams were primarily generated from ride tickets, food, and beverages sold within the park.
Brian Knoebel, the current owner and 52 years old, recently shared that he made a solemn promise, a “pinky-swear,” to never deviate from the park’s free-admission policy.
He emphasized the core value of the park, stating, “It’s who we are. It’s that traditional park.”
Knoebel expressed his understanding of intergenerational enjoyment, noting that grandparents often derive more pleasure from watching their grandchildren experience the rides than from riding them themselves.
He further elaborated on the financial considerations for families, mentioning, “And Grandma and Grandpa are on a limited income. So they don’t pay to park. We don’t force you to buy food in the park — if you want to bring a picnic lunch, then bring a picnic lunch.”
Knoebel, whose ancestors immigrated from Germany and worked in the lumber industry, explained that the amusement park began as a humble endeavor.
He recounted the early days, saying, “After church on Sunday, they’d come down and park their horse and buggy off to the side, and frolic in the stream and have a little picnic.”
“My great-grandfather would feed and stable your horses for, I believe, a quarter,” he added.
Over time, the park evolved. Knoebel continued, “Little by little, he started building some picnic tables and park benches, and on July 4, 1926, we opened a swimming pool, a restaurant — appropriately named ‘The Restaurant’ — and we rented a steam-powered carousel.”
Despite its significant growth, Knoebel affirmed that the park has successfully maintained its charming, old-fashioned ambiance. This includes its natural setting with a canopy of trees, peaceful shaded walkways, creekside seating areas, and classic attractions.
When asked about the changes, he reflected, “How has it changed? We started with one ride, and one food stand, and the pool.”
“We now have 60 rides, I believe 38 food stands, 24 games, and water slides. … Quarter-mile down the road, we own the 18-hole golf course, complete with a bar and tavern.”
Knoebel conveyed his family’s strong sense of brand identity, stating, “Overall, Knoebel said that he and his family ‘absolutely know our brand.'”
“We know our fans,” he added.
“And that throwback amusement park from yesteryear is exactly who we continue to be,” he elaborated.
“We don’t have roller coasters that reach the clouds. We have rides for thrill seekers … but, of course, we have more traditional rides.”
Knoebels Amusement Resort holds the distinction of being the largest free-admission park in the United States. As stated on its website, “Knoebels does not have a gate, and you only pay for what you want once you are at the park.”
