Movieguy Posted July 27, 2008 Posted July 27, 2008 Hey all. I recently got back from my first ever outing to the legendary Knoebels in Elysburg, PA. In short: I loved the place. I loved the food, I loved the rides, I loved the coasters (Twister, especially), and I loved the atmosphere. They were efficient with the rides, but laid back at the same time. It was amazing to see them only running one train on both coasters, yet keeping the lines short at the same time. The fact that it was also free admission, with no fences, and you could bring your dog to the place added to this park's uniqueness. I often heard my parents talking about a small PA park where they grew up called Cascade Park, which no longer exists...and I am convinced that Knoebels is what Cascade would be now if it was still alive. You'll notice I took no photos of the Haunted Mansion...well, I need to confess, I've never been a fan of anything that jumps out and scares people in pitch-black darkness. (This is why I'm a popular target for "screamers" from my buddies, so they can see me jump and yell out expletives.) So I skipped that one. Overall though, this is easily one of the best, most well-kept, and well-run parks I've ever been to. I'm so glad I chose this over going back to Darien Lake, or enduring the traffic and crowds around SFGADV. I shall return some day...despite the fact my last day there was very wet. They even had a flat-screen TV in the room. Definitely a step up from the other motels I usually stay at. I stayed at the Hampton Inn in nearby Danville...VERY nice place. I recommend it to anyone in the area. Looks even better at night. Nice little sign... Did I mention I'm a pinball geek too? I love me some Skee-Ball! I don't usually bother riding Merry-Go-Rounds, but I stood around admiring this one quite a bit. I don't see too many amusement parks with covered bridges. Lot's of old-fashioned charm to this place. The Log Flume actually broke down just as I was leaving the station on my ride...still had a good time though, once they fixed it. Still, that didn't stop me from having multiple rides, and taking multiple pics... I loved it, but I think it gave me a nasty little bruise on my left arm. Power Surge...this ride is INSANE. Fandango was interesting too. It's the first ride of its kind I've ever been on. My next favorite ride was the Cosmotron. I love the concept of placing a flat ride indoors with lights and music. I especially loved when they played Ozzy's "Crazy Train". Phoenix was no slouch either, though...I've never been on a woodie with this much airtime. It was cool. Airtime is all well and good, but I love a coaster that's not afraid of curves either. Train returning from yet another kick-ass ride. Easily one of the best Woodies I've ever been on. I rode it multiple times. Yours truly on the Twister
ctriceman Posted July 27, 2008 Posted July 27, 2008 Great TR! Too bad you skipped the mansion though, even though it's scary, the entertainment factor and originality make up for it and make it worthwhile.
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