Don’t Miss These 33 Knott’s Berry Farm Rides! (Insider Secrets Revealed)
Your time at Knott’s Berry Farm is precious. Don’t waste it on lame rides. Here’s the ultimate cheat sheet to Knott’s Berry Farm rides, so you can hit the highlights and make the most of your day:
- Thrill Seekers: HangTime (dive coaster), GhostRider (wooden coaster), Xcelerator (launch coaster), Supreme Scream (drop tower)
- Family Fun: Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair (interactive dark ride), Calico Mine Ride (dark ride), Timber Mountain Log Ride (log flume), Rapid River Run (water ride)
- Camp Snoopy: Sierra Sidewinder (spinning coaster), Flying Ace (family coaster), Linus Launcher (family ride), Balloon Race (family ride)
- Classics: Calico Railroad (train ride), Butterfield Stagecoach (stagecoach ride), Carrusel de California (carousel)
Navigate Knott’s Berry Farm like a seasoned pro. We’ll reveal the best seats on Pig-Pen’s Mud Buggies, the subtle “Knott’s Berry Tales” theme in the Balloon Race queue, and other insider tips to elevate your next visit…
Camp Snoopy
For both kids and parents, Camp Snoopy provides a delightful escape into the world of the Peanuts, where there is fun, color, and nostalgia around every corner.
Were you aware? A tribute to Knott’s rich heritage that is hidden in plain sight, the Snoopy’s Red Baron attraction is located on the original location of the park’s first roller coaster from the 1950s!
Sierra Sidewinder
Sierra Sidewinder takes roller coaster thrills to the next level with 37 mph spins, dips, and sharp turns. Each car rotates on its axis, delivering a heart-pounding ride full of twists and nose-dives.
🎉 Year Opened | 2007 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Roller Coaster |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: On Sierra Sidewinder, each ride experience is unique due to the spinning cars, which means you’ll rarely get the same view twice. A little-known feature is that the ride’s intensity can vary depending on the weight distribution of riders in each car, making it unpredictable and thrilling every time!
Woodstock’s Airmail
Woodstock’s Airmail at Knott’s Berry Farm lets young aviators soar in mini-airplanes for a breezy ride through the skies of Camp Snoopy. Perfect for smaller guests, it offers gentle thrills and is surrounded by Peanuts-themed fun, making it a must-stop for families.
🎉 Year Opened | 1998 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: While waiting in line for Woodstock’s Airmail at Knott’s Berry Farm, keep an eye out for the subtle Snoopy-themed details on the ride’s structure and surroundings, including hidden nods to the Peanuts comic strip. These small touches are easy to miss but add charm to the ride for fans of the characters.
Flying Ace
Join Snoopy, the World War I Flying Ace, in a thrilling aerial battle against the Red Baron on the Flying Ace ride! Strap in, take control, and soar with the whole family on this high-flying adventure, where imagination takes flight and justice prevails.
🎉 Year Opened | 2000 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Flying Ace’s line often moves faster than it looks, thanks to its higher capacity. A hidden gem in the queue is the Peanuts-themed posters that pay homage to vintage aviation history—take a moment to enjoy the details while you wait. The ride itself is surprisingly smooth and great for younger kids easing into thrill rides.
Rapid River Run
Get ready to join Lucy on an exciting river adventure as you paddle through Camp Snoopy’s winding waters, braving rapids that might send your tugboat spinning! With Lucy at the helm, you’ll conquer the twists and turns before safely returning to shore.
🎉 Year Opened | 2004 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | 42″ (107 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Small Drop |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults, Families |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the ride’s queue and you’ll notice details from Knott’s history, like nods to the original Ghost Town. Pay attention to the mining-themed props as you wait—they’re not just decoration but part of Knott’s storytelling tradition, adding a layer of immersion before you even board the raft!
Pigpen’s Mud Buggies
Climb aboard Pig-Pen’s Mud Buggies for a wild, bumpy ride through rocky terrain, where colorful ATVs spin, bounce, and bring loads of fun without the mud. With Pig-Pen watching from the center, kids will be grinning ear to ear on this dirt-packed adventure!
🎉 Year Opened | 2014 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: On Pig-Pen’s Mud Buggies, check out the whimsical designs on each buggy, which feature fun, unique details that are easy to miss. While waiting in line, look for subtle nods to Peanuts characters hidden in the surrounding ride decor. Also, the buggies rotate more on the outer edge, making for a wilder spin.
Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer
Join Charlie Brown on a high-flying adventure as you soar above the trees of Camp Snoopy, but watch out for the mischievous kite-eating trees! Hop in your yellow flyer and help retrieve your kite while spotting Charlie Brown tangled in strings, stuck upside down in classic Peanuts style.
🎉 Year Opened | 2014 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: On Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer, look out for the Snoopy plush hidden within the ride’s mechanics, visible only at certain angles while flying. This small detail adds charm to the Peanuts-themed experience. Also, the line often moves quicker than expected due to the ride’s short duration and high capacity, so don’t be deterred by a seemingly long wait.
Linus Launcher
Experience the thrill of flight on Linus Launcher, where you’ll soar high above Knott’s Berry Farm like a bird on Linus’ blanket, alongside a buddy. Feel the rush as you fly face-down, feet dangling, and enjoy sweeping views of the park’s rides from up in the air!
🎉 Year Opened | 2014 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: While waiting in line for Linus Launcher, keep an eye on the detailed Peanuts-themed murals surrounding the queue. These vibrant illustrations capture nostalgic moments from the comic strips and are often overlooked by those eager for the ride. Plus, be on the lookout for hidden nods to classic Peanuts characters not featured on other rides.
Balloon Race
Join Snoopy and the Peanuts gang in a thrilling race high above Camp Snoopy® as you compete for the title of Best Balloon Racer! Soar in your colorful balloon, taking in stunning views of the High Sierra while waving to friends enjoying the camp’s exciting rides below.
🎉 Year Opened | 1983 |
📍 Section | Camp Snoopy |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: For a fun surprise, watch for the subtle nod to the classic “Knott’s Berry Tales” theme in the Balloon Race queue area. Some of the decorative elements reference the beloved dark ride from Knott’s history, offering a nostalgic touch for longtime fans. Keep an eye out while waiting in line!
Fiesta Village
In Fiesta Village, the sizzling heat of authentic street performances blends with the cool shade of rustic courtyards, where every step pulses with Latin flair and celebration.
Did you know? The carousel in Fiesta Village features hand-painted Mexican-themed murals, which pay tribute to the original artisans who crafted the village’s intricate tilework!
Montezooma’s Revenge
Montezooma’s Revenge returns in 2025 with major upgrades, enhancing its thrilling flywheel launch while preserving the classic experience loved for generations. Get ready for an adrenaline-packed revival of this iconic coaster!
🎉 Year Opened | 1978 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | 54″ (137 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Roller Coaster, Launch |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Montezooma’s Revenge has a unique feature—just before the launch, keep an ear out for the old-school bell sound that signals the ride’s start. It’s a nostalgic touch, a nod to its history as one of the last Schwarzkopf shuttle loop coasters. The original ride sign is also tucked away in the queue, a piece of Knott’s history often missed by visitors.
La Revolucion
La Revolución swings riders over six stories high at 120 degrees in both directions while spinning up to 9 RPMs, creating a heart-pounding ride experience. With inward-facing seats and a sensation of weightlessness, this wild combination of spins and swings guarantees unforgettable thrills.
🎉 Year Opened | 2003 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Thrill |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: La Revolución often has a shorter wait time compared to other thrill rides at Knott’s, especially when nearby rides have longer queues. If you’re a fan of intense spinning, be sure to check out the ride’s rotation settings, which can change slightly throughout the day, offering a different experience with each ride cycle.
Hat Dance
Step into the vibrant Hat Dance, a dizzying spin beneath brightly colored sombreros, originally designed by Bud Hurlbut in 1969 as one of Fiesta Village’s first attractions. Families and thrill-seekers alike can enjoy the fast-paced fun of this twirling ride, inspired by the festive Mexican sombrero.
🎉 Year Opened | 1969 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Hat Dance at Knott’s Berry Farm has a hidden tribute to Fiesta Village’s past—look closely at the artwork on the ride’s surrounding murals. The vibrant designs reference older versions of the area and even nod to retired attractions. It’s a small but meaningful detail that longtime visitors love to spot while waiting. Keep your eyes peeled!
Dragon Swing
Climb aboard the Dragon Swing for an exhilarating ride that soars high above the Alebrije Gardens, inspired by vibrant Mexican folk art. Designed by famed ride creator Wendell “Bud” Hurlbut, this thrilling boat will swing you nearly perpendicular to the ground with each breathtaking arc.
🎉 Year Opened | 1980 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Swing, Thrill |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the ground near the Dragon Swing for dragon footprints embedded in the concrete. These small details often go unnoticed by casual visitors but add a fun, thematic touch to the ride’s experience. Keep an eye out for them as you wait in line—it’s a fun nod to the ride’s dragon theme!
Los Voladores
Soar 40 feet above the ground on Los Voladores, a swing ride that lets you glide through the air under a dazzling canopy of lights and murals. Feel the thrill as you rotate in a 360-degree wave, catching breathtaking views by day and shimmering stars at night!
🎉 Year Opened | 1986 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Swing, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: The Los Voladores performance at Knott’s Berry Farm features an intricate pre-show ritual often missed by those arriving just before it begins. If you stand close to the base of the pole, you can hear the ceremonial flute music and see the dancers prepare, offering a unique perspective that adds depth to the show’s cultural significance.
Jaguar!
Jaguar! takes riders on a heart-pounding journey through 2,600 feet of track, twisting and turning like the stealthy big cat it’s named after. With smooth drops and curves, this Mayan-themed coaster delivers nonstop thrills for adventurers of all ages at Knott’s Berry Farm.
🎉 Year Opened | 1995 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Roller Coaster, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: While riding Jaguar! at Knott’s Berry Farm, keep an eye out as you pass through the dark temple tunnel—sharp-eyed guests will spot a set of glowing hieroglyphics that pay homage to past attractions, including the long-gone Kingdom of the Dinosaurs ride. A subtle nod to park history, it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention!
Sol Spin
Sol Spin takes daring riders over 6 stories high, where six spinning arms rotate 360 degrees in all directions. Each arm moves independently, offering a unique, heart-pounding adventure every time!
🎉 Year Opened | 2017 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Sol Spin’s line can seem short, but it moves slower than expected due to limited ride capacity. For a smoother experience, note that the ride’s intense spins feel less disorienting when focusing on a distant fixed point. Also, the Aztec-inspired ride design features subtle nods to Mexican mythology, adding to its immersive atmosphere.
Carrusel de California
Step onto the century-old Carrusel de California and ride one of its 48 hand-carved animals, from tigers to ostriches, as the antique band organ fills the air with cheerful tunes. With intricate murals and stunning craftsmanship all around, this timeless carousel offers both a joyful ride and a shady escape on sunny days.
🎉 Year Opened | 1955 |
📍 Section | Fiesta Village |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Carousel, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Kids, Tweens, Teens |
Insider Tip: On Carrusel de California, keep an eye out for the hand-carved horses—each one is unique and beautifully restored to its original 1920s design. The carousel also includes one rare horse that is designed to resemble a real horse from the Pony Express, a nod to Knott’s Old West theme. Look closely, as it’s a favorite among park enthusiasts!
Boardwalk
Experience the vibrant energy of the Boardwalk, a nostalgic throwback to classic American piers, buzzing with laughter, lights, and adrenaline-pumping attractions.
Did you know: There’s a hidden Easter egg on HangTime’s lift hill—a tribute to the park’s old Corkscrew roller coaster, the world’s first modern looping coaster, which stood where HangTime now dominates!
Supreme Scream
Supreme Scream rockets riders 252 feet skyward before dropping them in a heart-pounding freefall at over 50 mph, delivering three seconds of pure weightlessness. The adrenaline rush continues as they bounce halfway back up before landing safely on the launch pad.
🎉 Year Opened | 1998 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | 54″ (137 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Drop Tower, Thrill Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: When you’re at the top of Supreme Scream, look towards the ground just before the drop—many regulars know to spot the subtle nod to Knott’s Ghost Town from this height, as parts of the park’s classic buildings are visible in a unique way from above. This is a special perspective that even frequent riders sometimes miss.
Xcelerator The Ride®
Blast from 0 to 82 mph in just 2.3 seconds on Xcelerator The Ride® as you rocket 205 feet into the sky, then dive 90 degrees straight down. Strap into a flame-emblazoned ’57 Chevy hot rod and hang on tight as you race through 2,202 feet of adrenaline-pumping track at Knott’s Berry Farm.
🎉 Year Opened | 2002 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | 54″ (137 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Roller Coaster, Launch |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Xcelerator’s launch is intense, but a lesser-known detail is that during the brief pause at the top of the 205-foot hill, riders on the right side of the train may get a stunning, split-second view of the entire park. It’s a blink-and-you-miss-it moment, so be sure to stay alert for the breathtaking panorama before the plummet!
Sky Cabin
Soar 180 feet above the ground in Sky Cabin for a breathtaking, slow-moving ride offering 360-degree views of Orange County and Los Angeles. Get ready to take in the stunning scenery from all angles as you rise high above the park!
🎉 Year Opened | 1976 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Observation, Scenic |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look for the subtle tribute to Knott’s history inside Sky Cabin. As you ascend, keep an eye out for vintage park memorabilia and nostalgic items displayed around the cabin’s walls. These touches are often overlooked, but they give a nod to the park’s rich past while offering panoramic views of Southern California.
Wipeout
Wipeout spins you in circles before lifting into the air for a thrilling, dizzying experience. Hold on tight as the ride tilts and twists, taking you to new heights!
🎉 Year Opened | 1999 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Thrill Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Wipeout at Knott’s Berry Farm has a hidden twist—if you’re looking for an extra thrill, wait for the ride cycle to reach full speed. As it spins, the platform tilts more than it seems at first, offering a disorienting, weightless sensation that surprises many riders who expect a simpler spinning experience!
HangTime
HangTime, California’s first dive coaster at Knott’s Berry Farm, soars 150 feet above the Boardwalk with the state’s steepest beyond-vertical drop. Brace yourself for gravity-defying inversions and thrilling mid-air suspensions!
🎉 Year Opened | 2018 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | 54″ (137 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Roller Coaster, Thrill Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: While waiting in the queue for HangTime, keep an eye on the surfboard sign—it lights up and changes colors as the coaster drops from the lift hill. This small detail syncs with the ride’s dive sequence, enhancing the boardwalk vibe and adding a bit of extra flair to the experience.
Coast Rider
Brace yourself for a thrilling 52-foot ascent on Coast Rider, where clinging to handrails is just the beginning. Once at the top, a wild plunge down 1,339 feet of track packed with hairpin turns and twists brings the California coast to life in a heart-pounding adventure!
🎉 Year Opened | 2013 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | 42″ (107 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Roller Coaster, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Coast Rider’s line often moves slower than expected due to its relatively low ride capacity. Many park-goers recommend using the Single Rider line if you’re visiting alone or don’t mind being separated from your group, as it significantly cuts down wait time. Also, look for the nostalgic beach-themed decor around the queue—it offers a fun nod to California’s coastal history.
Surfside Gliders
Guests take control of their own Surfside Gliders, soaring 28 feet above the Boardwalk. These two-person aircrafts zip through the air, offering thrilling views of the newly expanded area.
🎉 Year Opened | 2013 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: On Surfside Gliders at Knott’s Berry Farm, if you angle your glider wings just right during the ride, you can make your glider sway more dramatically, giving you a thrilling sensation of “flying” higher. Many first-time riders don’t realize they have this control, adding an extra level of fun to the experience!
Pacific Scrambler
Get ready to twist, shout, and laugh as the Pacific Scrambler spins you around nonstop. As everything blurs into a scramble, you’ll be sliding side to side in a thrilling whirlwind of fun!
🎉 Year Opened | 2013 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Spinning, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Look closely at the scenery around the Pacific Scrambler, and you’ll notice the ride is tucked in Ghost Town, which adds to its unique charm. While waiting, you might catch glimpses of nearby attractions like the GhostRider, making the line more interesting for those who enjoy people-watching. The line also moves quicker than expected due to the ride’s short cycle time.
Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair
Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair is an all-new 4-D interactive dark ride where guests use jelly blasters to recover stolen boysenberry pies while racing through whimsical scenes like the Boysenberry Pie Factory and Frog Forest. With Crafty Coyote and his pups back to steal the pies, it’s up to you to score big and save the day at the County Fair!
🎉 Year Opened | 2021 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Dark, Interactive |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: In Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair, look closely at the pie factory scene for subtle nods to the original 1975 ride, including classic characters like Crafty Coyote. A sharp eye can spot these nostalgic touches while you’re busy shooting pies, making the experience even more rewarding for longtime fans!
Wheeler Dealer Bumper Cars
Get ready to swerve, bump, and crash in Knott’s Berry Farm’s classic Wheeler Dealer Bumper Cars, where every spin and collision brings heart-pounding fun. Since the 1970s, this wild ride has been delivering non-stop thrills as you bash and outmaneuver friends and foes alike!
🎉 Year Opened | 2002 |
📍 Section | Boardwalk |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Bumper Cars, Family-friendly |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: At Wheeler Dealer Bumper Cars in Knott’s Berry Farm, sharp-eyed visitors might notice the old-fashioned license plates on the cars, each representing different states or featuring vintage designs. A fun detail to spot while waiting in line, it adds a nostalgic touch to the ride experience many guests overlook. Keep an eye out!
Ghost Town
At Knott’s Berry Farm, Ghost Town whisks you away to an eerily real Wild West where the atmosphere is thick with mystery and long-forgotten tales.
Were you aware? The Ghost Town Saloon boasts one of the best views of the town’s eerie events from its secret second-story balcony, which few visitors ever notice.
Pony Express
Saddle up for a high-speed Wild West adventure on Knott’s Berry Farm’s Pony Express, where you’ll blast off at 38 MPH in less than three seconds, racing past Boot Hill and the Calico Railroad. With its unique “horse” seating and 1,300 feet of thrilling twists, this coaster delivers family-friendly excitement without any inversions or big drops!
🎉 Year Opened | 2008 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | 54″ (137 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Roller Coaster, Thrill Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: Pony Express riders should keep an eye out for the unique “horse hoof” sound effects in the queue and during the ride, which add an immersive touch to the experience. Also, note that the ride’s acceleration at the launch is more intense than it seems, so brace yourself for a quick burst of speed right at the start!
Calico River Rapids
Embark on a thrilling expedition with Calico River Rapids at Knott’s Berry Farm, where white water rafters face wild surprises, including animatronics, roaring rapids, and dynamic water effects. With six-passenger rafts navigating unexpected twists, explorers journey through untamed wilderness in search of new land along the outskirts of Calico.
🎉 Year Opened | 1988 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | 42″ (107 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Water Ride, Big Drop |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults, Families |
Insider Tip: While riding Calico River Rapids, keep an eye out for animatronic animals in the dense wilderness scenes. One of the most surprising moments is when a skunk figure releases a mist that looks like it’s spraying at riders—perfect for startling those who aren’t expecting it! This small detail often goes unnoticed but adds a fun twist to the adventure.
GhostRider
GhostRider, the longest, tallest, and fastest wooden coaster on the West Coast, towers 118 feet over Knott’s Ghost Town, sending riders soaring over 4,500 feet of twisting timber. For the ultimate thrill, brave the 14 hills at night when the darkness hides every heart-pounding twist and turn.
🎉 Year Opened | 1998 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | 48″ (122 cm) or Taller |
🎢 Ride Type | Wooden Roller Coaster, Thrill Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Teens, Adults |
Insider Tip: While in line for GhostRider, keep an eye on the queue’s wooden beams—some feature engraved names of Knott’s historic attractions, a nod to the park’s rich history. This detail can be easy to miss, but it’s a fun connection to the park’s past while you wait for the thrilling ride ahead.
Butterfield Stagecoach
Hop aboard an original Butterfield Stagecoach for a wild, time-traveling adventure! The bullet holes in the door? Don’t sweat it—they’re just part of its storied past.
🎉 Year Opened | 1949 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Scenic, Stagecoach Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Adults |
Insider Tip: While riding the Butterfield Stagecoach, keep an eye on the inside of the stagecoach for small plaques and details referencing real-life historical figures and events. These are authentic nods to California’s rich history, often overlooked by riders focused on the view outside.
Calico Railroad
The Calico Railroad at Knott’s has been thrilling guests since 1952 with its authentic Denver and Rio Grande Narrow Gauge train from the early 1900s. Beware of Ghost Town bandits, who stage hold-ups on every departure from Calico Square, making it the most crime-ridden ride in Orange County!
🎉 Year Opened | 1952 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Scenic, Train Ride |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Adults |
Insider Tip: Look for the train robbers who occasionally board the Calico Railroad during your ride! These live actors, dressed in Wild West attire, interact with passengers and create spontaneous, immersive moments that enhance the old-timey experience. They aren’t on every trip, so catching them is a delightful surprise for many visitors.
Timber Mountain Log Ride
Timber Mountain Log Ride, one of the most elaborate log flumes in the U.S. since 1969, takes guests through a towering 85-foot-high mountain range themed to a 19th-century lumber camp. Revitalized in 2013 with restored scenes, upgraded ride figures, and new special effects, it continues to thrill both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike.
🎉 Year Opened | 1969 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Water Ride, Big Drop |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Teens |
Insider Tip: During the Timber Mountain Log Ride, look closely as you pass through the dark mine scenes—there’s a nod to the park’s history with a hidden miner animatronic modeled after Bud Hurlbut, the creator of the ride. This homage to the legendary ride designer is a special detail that many visitors miss!
Calico Mine Ride
The Calico Mine Ride plunges riders into the heart of a working gold mine, weaving through dimly lit tunnels past underground lakes, waterfalls, and bubbling geysers. Along the way, you’ll encounter towering caverns and a massive scene of animated miners laboring to strike it rich amidst the mysterious formations.
🎉 Year Opened | 1960 |
📍 Section | Ghost Town |
🤞 Rider Height | Any Height |
🎢 Ride Type | Dark Ride, Scenic |
👨👩👧 Best For | Families, Kids, Tweens |
Insider Tip: Look out for a fun nod to Knott’s history—just before entering the final cavern scene, there’s a figure of a gold prospector modeled after Walter Knott himself, hidden amongst the mine workers. This subtle tribute can be easy to miss, so keep your eyes peeled for a piece of the park’s legacy!
FAQ
Is Knotts better than Disney?
It depends on your preferences. Knott’s Berry Farm offers a more relaxed and affordable experience with a focus on thrilling roller coasters and Western-themed attractions. Disney, however, provides a more immersive experience with detailed lands, iconic characters, and family-friendly rides. If you love adrenaline-pumping rides, Knott’s might be better. If you’re after magic and storytelling, Disney excels.
How much does Knott’s Berry Farm cost for one person?
A single-day ticket for Knott’s Berry Farm typically ranges from $65 to $99, depending on the season and promotions. Discounts may be available online.
Is Knott’s Berry Farm worth it?
Yes, Knott’s Berry Farm offers great value, especially for thrill-seekers. With high-adrenaline rides, family attractions, and a rich history in entertainment, it’s a fantastic alternative to pricier parks, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages.
How much is parking at Knotts?
Parking at Knott’s Berry Farm costs $30 for cars and motorcycles. Preferred parking, which offers closer spots, is available for $50 per vehicle.