Knott’s Berry Farm: “America’s First Theme Park”
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Disneyland is not the only theme park in Southern California. Knott’s Berry Farm, located about ten minutes away in Buena Park, calls itself America’s first theme park. Founded in the 1920s as a roadside berry stand, the operation has evolved into a 20-acre park with more than 165 rides, shows, attractions, restaurants, and shops — in six themed areas.
What to Do at Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is divided up into six areas, each with its own restaurants, shopping, and attractions. At the park, you’ll find:
- Old West Ghost Town — Modeled after a 1890s California gold rush town, this section features can-can dancers, stagecoaches, a real steam train (pictured above), and the “Silver Bullet,” a suspended coaster with a 105-foot vertical loop.
- Camp Snoopy — a children’s wonderland, filled with 30 attractions, ranging from “Lucy’s Tugboat” to the Camp Snoopy Theater to the kid-sized Timberline Twister roller coaster.
- Fiesta Village — a salute to California’s Spanish heritage, the Fiesta Village offers south-of-the-border food, architecture, art, and spicy rides like the “La Revolucion” coaster.
- The Boardwalk — this area illustrates the laid-back California beach lifestyle and includes the world’s tallest, steepest, and wettest water ride, the “Perilous Plunge.”
- Indian Trails — illustrates the history, crafts, art, music, and dance of Native American tribes.
- Wild Water Wilderness — simulates the California river wilderness of the late 19th century, with “Bigfoot Rapids” white-water excursion and the “Mystery Lodge” multi-media presentation about the Native American west.
New for 2007 is the Sierra Sidewinder, a new coaster with two trains that take riders through a series of nose-dives, banks, twists, and turns. Also new for the summer of 2007 is the ice show, “Snoopy’s Big Bow Wow,” featuring the loveable beagle and all of his Peanuts pals.
Hours and Admission
Knott’s Berry Farm is open every day, except for Christmas Day. Admission is $43.95 for adults and $18.95 for juniors (ages 3-11) and seniors (age 60 and older). A special after 4pm admission is just $25 for adults. Discounts are offered for Southern California residents.
Where to Stay
Southern California is loaded with hotels, bed and breakfast, and resorts in all price ranges. In addition, you can stay right at the park at the Knott’s Berry Farm Resort Hotel. The 320-room hotel features a SNOOPY-themed wing for families as well as a children’s pool and activity area. Adults will enjoy the fitness center, adult pool, and lighted sports courts.
For more information on Knott’s Berry Farm, visit their Web site.