Century-old amusement park beats out Disney, Universal to be named top Americas favorite
As America celebrates its 250th birthday, travelers are recognizing some of the country’s most beloved amusement parks.Now, one century-old Pennsylvania destination has taken the top spot, beating out Disney and Universal favorites.In an era of pricey theme parks and gated admission, Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, is still letting guests in for free.The family-owned park has been admission-free since it first opened on July 4, 1926.The park ranked No.
1 in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards.The rankings are based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews submitted between Feb.
1, 2025, and Jan.31, 2026.Eric Bowman, editor-in-chief of TravelPulse, based in Atlanta, told Fox News Digital that value likely played a major role in this year’s rankings.“Number one and two may surprise people on this list, but I think cost is playing a major factor here,” Bowman said.Here’s a look at Tripadvisor’s five highest-ranked amusement parks in America.Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, Knoebels is America’s largest free-admission amusement park, allowing guests to purchase tickets only for the rides they want to experience instead of paying an admission fee.The park features classic wooden roller coasters, family rides, camping, a large swimming pool, golf and picnic pavilions, making it a longtime favorite for multi-generational vacations.Bowman said the park’s affordability and laid-back atmosphere help it resonate with visitors.“Knoebels Amusement Resort is free admission and a per ride cost,” Bowman noted.“Knoebels doesn’t get too busy,” he said.
“It also has a massive pool and large pavilions where many people often bring their own food.”2.Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TennesseeDollywood earned the No.
2 spot on Tripadvisor’s list after topping the rankings in recent years.The Tennessee theme park, co-owned by country music icon Dolly Parton, is known for blending thrill rides with live ent...