• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
sand and snow logo 2023

Sand and Snow

Travel | Food | Beauty | Disney

  • About Sand and Snow
  • Travel
  • Food & Drinks
  • Disney
  • Talk & Tech
  • Beauty
  • Privacy

5 Pennsylvania Theme Parks You Forgot You Wanted to Visit

May 30, 2023 by Karyn Locke

  • Share
  • Tweet

Are you tired of the same old amusement parks with long lines and overcrowded rides, or maybe you want to check out a few off the beaten path theme parks this summer. Either way, Pennsylvania has got you covered. From free admission to historical rides, here are 5 Pennsylvania theme parks you forgot you wanted to visit.

pennsylvania theme parks - kennywood swings
Wave Swinger in Kennywood Park

Pennsylvania Theme Parks You Forgot You Wanted to Visit

Page Contents

Toggle
  • Pennsylvania Theme Parks You Forgot You Wanted to Visit
  • Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Kennywood Park
  • Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Knoebels Amusement Resort
  • Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Idlewild & SoakZone
  • Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – DelGrosso’s Amusement Park
  • Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Dutch Wonderland

Okay, I’m a sucker for the larger amusement parks. Drive me down to Florida to visit Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort and I’m a happy camper, even if I’ve been in the car for 15 hours straight.

But when it come to parks in my neck of the woods, aka, Pennsylvania & Ohio, I’m all about adorably historical. I want to visit theme parks that are not only a short drive from my home but ones that offer both thrilling and calm attractions as well. Additionally, I want them to be affordable, safe, and all-around fun. Here’s my list of the 5 best off the beaten path Pennsylvania theme parks.

Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Kennywood Park

best pennsylvania theme parks - kennywood park

Kennywood Park is one of the oldest and most beloved theme parks in Pennsylvania, and it just happens to be in my big city, Pittsburgh. It has been entertaining families for over a century with classic rides like the Jack Rabbit and Thunderbolt roller coasters (and Racer. I can’t even begin to write about Kennywood without mentioning the fan fave,Racer.)

But it’s not just the history that draws in the crowds. Kennywood Park is known for its unique attractions and food, like the Potato Patch, which serves up fresh-cut fries with a variety of toppings. Folks stand in long lines for the tasty fries and, I have to admit, I’m on of them.

Pennsylvania theme parks - Kennywood Steelers Country: Steel Curtain Seats
The Steel Curtain coaster seats. Check out the number – a tribute to Merril Hoge!

One of the most popular rides at Kennywood Park is the Phantom’s Revenge. It’s a steel coaster that starts with a heart-racing drop and then speeds through a series of twists and turns that will leave you breathless. If you prefer something a little less intense, the Aero 360 provides a thrilling experience without the stomach-churning drops. And if you’re a football fan, heading to Steelers’ Country to take a ride on The Steel Curtain is well worth the trip.

But the fun doesn’t stop with the rides. Kennywood Park also offers a variety of shows and entertainment options, including live music and dance performances. There are also games and activities for all ages, so expect plenty of traditional carnival game booths around you when you go.

Spinvasion full ride experience

This year, the park unveiled Spinvasion, the first-of-its-kind thrill ride, to great reviews. Not only does it spin super fast, the seats move up and down. But the really cool thing about it is the fact that, if you close your eyes, the ride is so smooth you can’t even feel the movement.

Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Knoebels Amusement Resort

Italian Trapeze at knoebels Amusement Park
Italian Trapeze at Knoebels Amusement Park. Photo credit: Knoebels

Located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, Knoebels Amusement Resort is a true hidden gem. Nestled in the woods, this family-owned amusement park is the perfect getaway for those looking for a different kind of theme park experience. With no admission fee, you only pay for the rides you go on, making it an affordable option for families on a budget. If you’re old enough to remember (or are a Disneyphile) you may have read that Walt Disney World used the same ticketing system when it opened in 1971.

The Amusement Resort is home to over 60 rides, including two wooden roller coasters that are sure to give you a thrill. But it’s not just the rides that make Knoebels special. The park is also home to a campground, where you can pitch a tent or rent a cabin, and a pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.

In addition to the rides and attractions, Knoebels is also known for its food. From classic amusement park fare like funnel cakes and hot dogs to unique offerings like pierogies and haluski, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

But what really sets Knoebels apart is its commitment to preserving the past. Many of the rides at Knoebels are vintage, and the park has a museum dedicated to preserving amusement park history. It’s a unique experience to ride a classic wooden carousel or Ferris wheel that’s been around for decades.

If you’re looking for a theme park experience that’s a little different, Knoebels is definitely worth the road trip. With its affordable prices, unique rides, and commitment to preserving the past, it’s a Pennsylvania theme park you won’t want to miss.

Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Idlewild & SoakZone

Pennsylvania theme parks - Classic nursery rhymes brought to life in Storybook Forest at Idlewild Park.
Classic nursery rhymes brought to life in Storybook Forest at Idlewild Park. Photo Credit: Karyn Locke

One of Pennsylvania’s hidden gems for theme park enthusiasts is Idlewild & SoakZone. This park has been around since 1878 and has grown to include a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. With several distinct areas, the park is a fan favorite for guests of all ages.

One of the unique aspects of this park is its commitment to promoting learning through play. The park offers interactive exhibits that teach kids about nature, science, and history, making it an educational experience as well as a fun one. If the kiddos are fans of vintage children’s’ television, there’s plenty of Fred Rogers touches to make them happy. And if that wasn’t enough, Storybook Forest is a life-sized walkthrough path that features Mother Goose and her rhymes.

A big highlight of the park is the SoakZone, an expansive water park that includes slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day and, yes, Pennsylvania gets lots of them.

After a day of fun, visitors can grab a bite to eat at one of the park’s many restaurants and snack bars. Idlewild & SoakZone offers a unique blend of excitement and education that’s sure to appeal to families and anyone interested in a different kind of theme park experience.

Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – DelGrosso’s Amusement Park

Pharoah's Fury at DelGrosso's Amusement Park
Pharoah’s Fury at DelGrosso’s Amusement Park. Photo Credit: DelGrosso’s

Located in Tipton, Pennsylvania, DelGrosso’s Amusement Park is a family-owned and operated park that has been around since 1907. The park features a variety of classic and modern rides, including a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and a thrilling roller coaster.

One of the park’s most unique attractions is the Antique Auto Ride, where visitors can take a leisurely drive through a scenic park setting. If you’re not familiar with the DelGrosso name, the family is all about Italian sauce making and its theme park is no exception.

In addition to the rides, the park also offers a water park with a wave pool and water slides. And if you’re feeling competitive, there’s even a mini-golf course on site.

But one of the biggest draws of DelGrosso’s Amusement Park is the food. The park is known for its delicious pizza and homemade spaghetti sauce, which has won numerous awards. Visitors can also indulge in other park favorites like funnel cakes, hot dogs, and soft serve ice cream.

Best Smaller Pennsylvania Theme Parks – Dutch Wonderland

Topsy Turvy Tea Party at Dutch Wonderland.
Topsy Turvy Tea Party at Dutch Wonderland. Photo Credit: Dutch Wonderland

Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Dutch Wonderland is a charming and family-friendly theme park that will delight young ones and adults alike. With over 35 rides and attractions, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

For younger children, the park offers a variety of gentle rides like the Choo Choo Charlie train ride, the Frog Hopper, and the Wonder House. There are also plenty of interactive play areas like the Exploration Island and the Dino Dig to keep the kiddos entertained and happy.

For thrill-seekers, Dutch Wonderland features roller coasters like the Merlin’s Mayhem, Kingdom Coaster, and the Joust. In addition to the rides, the park also offers shows and entertainment, including the High Dive Show and the Duke’s Dance Party, so make sure you check the entertainment schedule when you arrive.

And of course, no theme park experience is complete without food. Dutch Wonderland has plenty of options, from classic amusement park fare like hot dogs and funnel cakes to healthier options like salads and wraps.

Filed Under: On the Go, Travel Tagged With: Pennsylvania theme parks

Primary Sidebar

Thanks for popping by the site! Sand and Snow is dedicated to provided travel tips, fun recipes, reviews, and plenty of theme park planning tools. Email klocke@sandandorsnow.com with questions and comments.

Connect with Us

  • Amazon
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • TikTok
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Disney Park Planning

things you can only do on a disney cruise - Disney Treasure Arrival

Magical Experiences You Can Only Do on a Disney Cruise

February 5, 2025 By Karyn Locke

Request a Disney World Room or Resort Area - Exterior of Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

How to Request a Disney World Room or Resort Area: Easy Tips and Tricks to Get the Ideal View

November 25, 2024 By Karyn Locke

Things We Wish Disney World Never Got Rid of - Wishes fireworks

12 Things We Wish Disney World Never Got Rid of — and One We’re Happy They Did

October 15, 2024 By Karyn Locke

Looking for places to get alcohol in Walt Disney World - Oga's Cantina

A Guide to Liquor in the Most Magical Place on Earth: Places to Get Alcohol in Walt Disney World

October 6, 2024 By Karyn Locke

Footer

About Our Affiliate Links

Sand and Snow uses affiliate links in its posts and articles and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Program that provides earned advertising fees at no additional cost to the reader.

Recent

  • 5 Great Side Hustles for Travelers
  • 3 Easy Tips to Make Your Vacation Less Stressful & More Enjoyable
  • 6 Big Benefits of Buying a Newly Built Home
  • How Gaming Can Help You in the Workplace: 8 Ways
  • How to Take Your Time as a Culinary Tourist

Search

Copyright © 2025 · Magazine Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

We Value your Privacy
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT