Essential Tips and Tricks for Visiting Knott’s Berry Farm

There’s a complete guide to Knott’s Berry Farm including tons of information about where everything is located, height restrictions, and making the most of your visit. You can also make use of a helpful guide that breaks down what you can do at Knott’s with young children and toddlers. However, if you’re in a hurry, these quick tips will avoid some potential headaches and help you easily navigate the park.

Don’t Pay Full Price

Paying at the gate is the only instance where you will need to pay full price at Knott’s. To save a significant amount of money and avoid waiting in ticket lines, take advantage of the discount options available on the Knott’s tickets page for online ticket purchases.

Avoid Crowds

Mid-week is the least crowded time to visit; however, during the school year, the park has shorter open hours. On days when the park is open late, it may be wise to ride the attractions with the longest lines in the last hour since many visitors clear out an hour or two before closing.

Fast Lane for Some of the Group

The Fast Lane wristband can significantly reduce your waiting time but may be pricey, especially on peak days. You don’t need to purchase Fast Lane for the entire group if not everyone plans to ride the thrill attractions. A smart strategy is to buy Fast Lane wristbands for only those wanting to enjoy the extreme rides, allowing them to quickly jump on and rejoin the group.

Parent Locator Service for Lost Kids

This “parent locator” service is a valuable resource for families. It’s recommended that your kids memorize your cell phone number or have it written on them. Additionally, registering your child with the Information Office allows the staff to reach you via your number if they find your child separated from you.

Parent Trade Off with Fast Lane Option

At Knott’s, parents with children who are too small for a ride can wait in line together, then one parent can ride while the other stays with the children. With Fast Lane for just the parents, you can enter through the exit, expediting the process, so kids are not left waiting as long.

Map Apps to Use On Site

Google Maps on the iPhone is more effective than the Knott’s iPhone app for locating major rides within the park. For the best aerial views of the rides, consider using Bing Maps Birds Eye View. However, bypass the Knott’s app; its only useful feature is the ride height restrictions, which require multiple clicks to access.

Check the Ride Names and Height Restrictions

With 40 rides at Knott’s Berry Farm, knowing the names of the rides facilitates navigating the park. Also, measuring your children ahead of time and verifying height restrictions can prevent wasting time at rides they cannot experience.

Ride Thrill Rides Clockwise Back to Front

Thrill seekers recommend beginning your day at the park with the Xcelerator, Boomerang, and Extreme Scream, situated in the back right corner. From there, move clockwise to ride Sidewinder, Silver Bullet, and Ghostrider.

The Fried Chicken is Better at Mrs. Knott’s

Although multiple Knott’s Berry Farm restaurants serve fried chicken, Mrs. Knott’s Fried Chicken Restaurant, located outside the park, serves the tastiest version. Please note that food is prepared to order, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. While the famous fried chicken is enjoyable, the sides are standard; however, the pie is a must-try dessert.

Healthier Dining Options

Knotts Berry Farm acknowledges the needs of health-conscious, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests. Thus, the park has introduced various options, including salads, veggie burgers, and gluten-free pizzas. For the best healthy selections, consider the Ghost Town Grill, Sutter’s Fine Family Fare, or Panda Express.

Meal Plans

If you plan to spend a lengthy day at Knott’s, consider the all-day Dining Plan, allowing you to order an entree and side every 90 minutes at six selected counter-service restaurants. Note that the Dining Plan menu primarily includes burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches and tenders, with limited options available. A single meal dining plan is also available for a flat rate for an entree, side, and drink.

Ride Water Rides Early & Wear Quick Dry Clothes

It is wise to prioritize water rides early in the day, especially in winter when temperatures can drop quickly. Even on warm summer days, wearing quick-dry clothing can help, as regular jeans take a long time to dry out. To avoid discomfort, there are pay dryers available if you prefer to dry off quickly.