Knott's Berry Farm is a theme park in Buena Park, California, with rides, shows, and food tied to its history as a berry farm
Knott's Berry Farm began in the 1920s when Cordelia Knott started selling pies and preserves at a roadside stand near her family's berry crops in Orange County. The park that grew from that stand is now a 57-acre amusement park with roller coasters, family rides, live entertainment, and restaurants. Unlike larger parks nearby, Knott's does not require reservations to enter on most days, though it does charge admission at the gate or online.
The park operates year-round but with varying hours depending on the season. Summer months (June through August) typically run longer hours, while fall and winter operate on a reduced schedule. The park also hosts special events like Knott's Scary Farm (a Halloween event with mazes and shows) and Knott's Merry Farm (a winter holiday celebration), each with separate ticketing.
Key Takeaways
- Knott's Berry Farm charges admission at the gate or through its website, with prices varying by date and advance purchase.
- The park is divided into themed areas including the Boardwalk, Fiesta Village, Ghost Town, and Camp Snoopy, each with different types of rides and attractions.
- Parking is available on-site for a separate fee, though some visitors use nearby public parking or ride-share services.
- The park's food options range from quick-service stands to sit-down restaurants, with chicken dinners and berry-based desserts as signature items tied to the farm's history.
- Height and age restrictions explore to many rides, so families with young children should check requirements before arriving.
Admission prices and how to purchase tickets
Knott's sells single-day admission tickets at the gate and online through its website. Gate prices are typically higher than advance online prices, so buying ahead saves money. Prices vary by date—peak days like summer weekends and holidays cost more than weekday visits during slower seasons.
The park also offers season passes that allow unlimited visits for a year. Pass holders receive discounts on food and merchandise, and some pass tiers include parking. Multi-day tickets are not standard; visitors typically buy separate single-day tickets for each visit or purchase a season pass if planning multiple trips.
Children under 3 do not require a ticket. Discounts for seniors (typically 60 and older) are available at the gate and online, though the discount amount varies. Military discounts are also offered with valid military identification.
Park layout and main attractions by area
Knott's is organized into five main themed areas. Camp Snoopy is designed for young children and features Peanuts characters, gentler rides, and a smaller scale. Ghost Town recreates a Wild West setting with wooden roller coasters, gunfight shows, and period-style buildings. Fiesta Village has a Mexican-inspired theme with rides and restaurants. The Boardwalk features modern thrill rides and games. Indian Trails rounds out the park with additional attractions and dining.
Major rides include Ghostrider (a wooden roller coaster in Ghost Town), Xcelerator (a launch coaster in the Boardwalk), and Jaguar (a suspended coaster in Fiesta Village). Younger children gravitate toward Camp Snoopy, where rides like the Pony Express and Timber Mountain Log Ride operate with lower height requirements. Live shows and character meet-and-greets happen throughout the day in various areas.
Height and age restrictions for rides
Most rides at Knott's have minimum height requirements rather than age restrictions. Heights typically range from 36 inches for gentler rides to 48 inches or taller for major coasters. Some rides allow younger children to ride if accompanied by an adult, even if they do not meet the height requirement—the park's website lists these exceptions.
Families with children under 42 inches tall should plan to spend most of their time in Camp Snoopy or on rides with lower requirements scattered throughout other areas. The park provides a height-check station near the entrance where you can verify your child's measurement against ride requirements before entering lines.
Parking, transportation, and getting around
Knott's operates a large on-site parking lot that charges a daily fee. Parking is also available in nearby off-site lots, some of which are cheaper but require walking or a shuttle ride to the park entrance. Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft drop off near the main entrance.
The park is located in Buena Park, about 30 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. Public transit is limited; most visitors drive. Once inside, the park is walkable, though distances between areas can be significant on hot days. Wheelchairs and mobility devices are available for rent at the entrance.
Food options and dining
Knott's is known for its fried chicken dinners, a legacy of Cordelia Knott's original restaurant. The Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant inside the park serves full meals with sides and pie. Quick-service stands throughout the park offer corn dogs, turkey legs, pizza, and other typical amusement park fare.
Berry-based items—pies, preserves, and desserts—are available at multiple locations, reflecting the farm's history. Prices are typical for theme parks and higher than outside restaurants. The park allows outside food and non-alcoholic beverages, so bringing a picnic can reduce costs. Alcoholic beverages are sold at certain restaurants and bars within the park.
Special events and seasonal operations
Knott's Scary Farm runs during October and features haunted mazes, shows, and scare actors. It requires a separate ticket from regular admission and operates in the evening. Knott's Merry Farm runs from November through early January with holiday decorations, shows, and special entertainment, included with regular admission during those dates.
The park's regular operating hours change by season. Summer (June–August) typically runs 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. or later on weekends, while fall and winter operate shorter hours, often closing by 6 or 7 p.m. on weekdays. Hours are posted on the park's website and change frequently, so checking before your visit is necessary.
What to bring and what to know before you go
Sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat are practical for a full day in the park. The park allows backpacks and bags, though large bags may be subject to inspection. Phones and cameras are permitted; the park has free Wi-Fi in some areas.
The park does not have a rain-out policy; if weather is poor, the park may close certain outdoor rides but typically remains open. Checking the weather forecast and dressing accordingly is wise. Crowds are heaviest on summer weekends and during special events; visiting on weekdays or during off-season typically means shorter wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Knott's Berry Farm?
Yes, outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. Many visitors bring snacks and water to save money. Alcoholic drinks cannot be brought in; they are sold only at designated locations inside the park.
What is the best day to visit if I want shorter wait times?
Weekdays during the school year (September through May, excluding holidays) typically have the shortest lines. Summer weekends and holiday periods are the busiest. Checking the park's website for crowd calendars can help you plan.
Are there lockers or places to store belongings during the day?
Yes, lockers are available for rent near the entrance and in various areas throughout the park. Sizes and prices vary. Many visitors use lockers to store items while riding, then retrieve them later.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance, or can I buy them at the gate?
You can buy tickets at the gate, but advance online purchase is cheaper. Buying online a few days ahead typically saves $10 to $20 per ticket compared to gate prices.
Is there a way to skip lines or get faster access to rides?
Knott's does not offer a paid fast-pass system like some larger parks. Wait times are managed through the standard queue system. Visiting during slower periods is the main way to reduce wait times.