When you think of Knott’s Berry Farm, what comes to mind first? Roller Coasters? Chicken Dinners? Boysenberries? While all of these things are a big part of the Knott’s experience, there’s still plenty of fun (and education) for younger kids who aren’t big enough for the extreme thrill rides.
1. Camp Snoopy: An entire land filled to the brim with colorful rides that range from mild to moderately thrilling for younger kids. You can also find character meet and greets (currently only Snoopy is meeting guests from a distance) and Peanuts themed photo opps.
Tip: Some rides (like Woodstock’s Air Mail and Camp Bus) have a very small capacity, so be sure to check out Camp Snoopy when the park first opens if these are a must do for your kids. Other rides (like the Grand Sierra Railroad and Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer) can hold more riders, allowing lines to move faster.
2. Ghost Town Residents: As you wander the streets of this Old West area, you might chat with the Mayor from the balcony, or catch a glimpse of some bandits running from the Sheriff. There is a real working blacksmith who will teach you how to form a horseshoe and tell hilarious corny jokes at the same time. If you’re lucky, you might catch the glass workers crafting a delicate flower or find your own gold nugget while panning for gold. Ghost Town is filled with hidden treasures as you explore the windows and displays! Your kids will love chatting with the colorful characters, and will have a little room to get out those wiggles too.
Tip: Don’t forget to peek into the windows of the storefronts and even the town jail. Surprises are everywhere!
3. Live Performances: Throughout the day and evening, you’ll find performers of all shapes and sizes! “Happiness is” is a charming stage show featuring classic Peanuts characters and live singers, with kid friendly tunes for them to dance along. The Bob Baker Marionettes perform several times a day in Fiesta Plaza, every child in the audience was captivated by these charming performers. There are also several bands which perform on various stages during the evenings, playing everything from country to rock to zydeco music.
Tip: Grab a snack, a meal or some drinks at a table about 30 minutes before performances begin. Even more food and drink options are available during Summer Nights (beginning at 5pm on weekends).
My daughter is 6, and she has a blast every time we visit! I’m so glad that we discovered there’s much more to Knott’s Berry Farm than just roller coasters 🎢
Castles, Characters, and Crayons 