Weather: 70 degrees, sunny

If you have never visited Knoebel's, you simply MUST get it on your intinerary. This was my second visit.

This wonderful park is unique for a number of reasons:

1) Free Parking
2) Free Admission
3) Despite items #1 and #2 crowds are polite, family-oriented, enthusiastic, and well behaved.
4) Ownership that is committed to preserving not only a park, but a specific KIND of PARK.

First time visitors are first struck by the remoteness of this park. That's not to say it is further or more distant than other parks, just a bit deeper into rural America along one of the prettiest drives you can imagine.

Staffing at this park is beyond adequate. There is an abundance of LONG-TIME employees. (we're talking 20+ years of service). They know the park, they know the drills for keeping things running smoothly, and they create an atmosphere dedicated to making the customer happy. Ride operators are varying ages, but all seem to LOVE their jobs. They are efficient, quick to strike up a conversation with guests, and knowledgeable about the rides they operate.

Food here is very reasonable from a price perspective and modest as far as serving size. I think they are sensitive to the average income range of their region and do their best to ensure a visit to Knoebel's is affordable to families.

The park has a great variety of rides both old and new. They have one of the best haunted houses in existence, a wonderful property and layoit to explore and in park camping for weekend stays.

The coasters:

Whirlwind - An arrow corkscrew that is less painful than you'd expect and somehow more appealing due to the execellent mature landscaping in and around the ride. (Walk on)

High Speed Thrill Coaster - Okay, so me an my buddy got on line with the kiddies for this one. Every book we read said the operator will hit the gas on this thing for enthusiasts. We got in, asked the guy to crank it up and he did! What a hoot! Do not leave without a spin on this and make sure to ask them to crank it. You will be pleasantly surprised if not totally thrilled! (10 minute wait)

Phoenix - Ride this and you will experience a PERFECT double out and back coaster. I do not believe their is a coaster in existence that is more fun or that offers more air-time (The Comet at the Great Escape included). This ride is run with an efficiency that should be studied by other parks. There always seems to be a line, yet never seems to be a wait. This coaster is a testament to the value of saving coasters by the old masters. Relocated, Rebuilt, and Meticulously Maintained, you understand why Mr. Knoebel is one of the most respected park owners in America. You have to love him for bringing this baby back to life! (Two Trains 10 minute wait)

Twister - Another "save" for Mr. Knoebel. Using the drawings of the old Mr. Twister from Elitch Gardens, Knoebel's has built a fun, exuberating ride that is relentless from start to finish. An instant classic, I guaranty you have not ridden a twister that can compare. With few lateral slams, this one is designed for fun thrills - not fear. (Two Trains 30 - 45 minute Wait)

VISIT THIS PARK!!:D

Knoebel's very quickly became one of my favorite parks on my visit out there during PPP last October. I'd love to be able to spend a few days there camping in their campground that's pretty much part of the park.

Whirlwind is actually a Vekoma coaster, though I think the trains might be Arrows. But it's a lot fo fun, especially realizing that some of those tree branches are actually touching the coaster as you go by them!

And Phoenix is currently my number 1 coaster (tied with X). Did you get to ride it at night when it was really flying?

__________________
Have you read my number 1 best seller? There will be a test! ~God
Life with God is one thrill ride you'll never want to get off of.
My park & coaster photos: Sir Willow's Smugmug pictures

Didn't ride it at night, but it was flying. Smooth, fast, and exhilarating!