If you’re planning a family trip to Southern California, Knott’s Berry Farm is a must-visit theme park. It’s one of our family’s favorites! This park is filled with classic theme park vibes, thrilling rides, and fun for all ages. While it’s known for its roller coasters, Knott’s also has plenty of attractions that are perfect for kids and families too. Here are some of the best rides at Knott’s for kids and families!
top 10 rides for kids and families at Knott’s Berry Farm
1. Calico Mine Ride
A trip to Knott’s wouldn’t be complete without hopping aboard the Calico Mine Ride. This historic dark ride was one of Knott’s first rides, opening in 1960. Your family will ride deep into an old-timey gold mine, complete with animatronic miners, glowing caverns, and a bit of nostalgia. The slow-moving train and immersive storytelling make it a great option for younger kids who want an exciting (but not too scary) adventure.
2. Timber Mountain Log Ride
If you’re looking for a fun splash without the extreme drops of other log rides, Timber Mountain Log Ride is a family favorite. This iconic ride is also one of the “originals”, with an opening year of 1969. Board a log and you’ll travel through a wooded logging camp before a final splashdown. Little ones who don’t mind a bit of excitement (and getting a little wet!) will love this classic attraction.
3. Jaguar!
I remember when this roller coaster first opened and it’s still a favorite of our my whole family! This is one of the best rides at Knott’s for kids who are ready for a bit of a thrill. Jaguar! takes riders on a smooth journey through ancient Mayan ruins with plenty of twists and turns. However, it stays relatively tame with no extreme drops, making it a fun and exciting ride for the whole family. The minimum height on this ride is 48″.
4. Balloon Race
For little ones who aren’t quite ready for thrill rides, the Balloon Race in Camp Snoopy is a gentle yet exciting ride. This ride is basically the Knott’s Berry Farm version of another park’s popular flying elephant ride… if you know you know. Kids get to soar in colorful balloons as they slowly rotate in the air. This ride offers great views of Camp Snoopy and is a perfect introduction to theme park attractions for toddlers.
| Read: Our Family’s Review of the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel |
5. Beagle Express Railroad
Another gem in Camp Snoopy, the Beagle Express Railroad is a slow-paced train ride that takes you on a journey through the “wilderness.” Along the way you’ll find fun Peanuts-themed scenes that really add to the fun. It’s an ideal break for parents while still keeping the little ones entertained. Look for fun seasonal additions during different times of the year!
6. Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair
This charming and colorful ride is a reimagining of the classic Bear-y Tales ride from the 1980s. Families hop aboard a berry-delivery vehicle and use their interactive “jelly blasters” to collect points as they travel through a whimsical world of boysenberry pies and mischievous critters. It’s a fun and engaging ride for all ages!
7. Butterfield Stagecoach
This ride has limited hours but if you can fit it into your park day, I highly suggest it! Your family can really step back in time and experience what travel was like in the Old West aboard a real stagecoach! This unique attraction takes families on a scenic ride around the park in a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find at most theme parks.
8. Wheeler Dealer Bumper Cars
Bumper cars are a rite of passage for any theme park-loving family, and the Wheeler Dealer Bumper Cars provide classic fun. While younger kids might need to ride with a grown-up, older children will love the freedom of steering their own car and gently (or not-so-gently!) bumping into siblings and parents. These are always a must-do for my kids!
| Read: Why You Should Visit Knott’s Merry Farm |
9. Pony Express
This unique family coaster is designed to give riders the feel of galloping on a horse! Pony Express launches riders forward at a smooth but exciting speed, making it a fantastic option for kids who are looking for their first taste of high-speed thrills without the intensity of bigger roller coasters. The minimum height on this ride is 48″.
10. Off-Road Rally
This attraction is a guest favorite in Camp Snoopy and lets your little one take the driver’s seat! With a minimum height of 36″, this is one of the best rides at Knott’s for kids because it lets your kids be in charge. Think Autopia–but Knott’s Berry Farm style.
What do you think are some of the best rides at Knott’s for kids?
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