The Tornado is blowing away the magic carpet.
Knoebels Amusement Resort, Elysburg, has a new ride for the 2020 season.
According to Knoebels’ spokeswoman Stacy Ososkie, the 32-passenger Tornado will be ready for the park’s April 25 opening day. Meanwhile, the 1001 Nacht is being removed after 20 years of service.
“Eight cars hold four passengers each in individual seats facing the inside of the car,” Ososkie said of the new addition. “Once the ride reaches speed moving in a circle, it tilts 20 degrees and lifts the cars up to 15 feet from ground level.”
According to Knoebels’ park President Richard “Dick” Knoebel, there’s another aspect of the ride that will likely be the favorite for many guests.
“Controlling part of a ride provides a really unique and exciting experience,” Knoebel was quoted in a release from Knoebels. “Riders will be able to spin the cars of our new ride themselves, choosing their thrill level.”
Visitors need to be 38-inches tall to ride Tornado with an adult, and 48 inches to ride alone. It will be near StratosFEAR drop tower ride and Kreeper’s Pumpkin Patch game.
Across the park, 1001 Nacht debuted in 1998, taking guests on a magic carpet ride reaching 85 feet in height.
“The ride is nearing the end of its operational life and ridership isn’t strong, meaning it makes sense for us to remove it to help with future planning for the park,” Ososkie said.
Knoebels Amusement Resort, which has been family owned and operated since its start in 1926, is America’s largest free-admission amusement park and offers free parking, entertainment and picnic facilities. There are more than 60 rides at the park, as well as food, swimming at Crystal Pool, challenging games, gift shops, and Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Club. It also offers campgrounds.
More details on 2020 changes and additions will be made available as Knoebels’ 94th season approaches. Visit www.knoebels.com for days/hours of operation.
#New for 2020 at #Knoebels! ???? #AmusementPark #Outdoor #Pennsylvania #Family #Summer #Fun #Ride pic.twitter.com/nWdWdWRprT
— Knoebels Amusement Resort (@knoebels) January 10, 2020
