Knott's Berry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm® bills itself as “America’s 1st theme park”. It dates back to the 1940s, when Walter Knott hit upon the idea of building a replica ghost town on the land of his berry farm to amuse customers waiting for a table at the farm’s famous fried chicken restaurant. Over the years he added various other attractions, and by the 1960s the park had become a major tourist draw in its own right. Today it is a much-cherished part of Californian cultural heritage which has helped to preserve relics of America’s pioneering past for future generations.The Ghost Town is much changed from the early days, although several original buildings, inspired by the real-life ghost towns of Calico and Prescott, Arizona, are still in existence. Here you can admire the traditional skills of the blacksmith, woodcarver, glass-blower and spinner, watch demonstrations of narrow gauge railroading and view a host of fascinating artefacts from the pioneer era in the Western Trails Museum, before heading off to the Calico Saloon for some old-fashioned high jinks.The park is divided into five themed zones which paint a vivid picture of Californian life from a bygone age. Get a feel for history from the lips of Native American storytellers in Indian Trails or watch brave cowboys attempt to tame fearsome bucking broncos in the Wild West Stunt Show. Explore the varied terrain of this vast state, from the plunging white water of Bigfoot Rapids to the cactus-covered desert of the Badlands and the palm-fringed beaches of the Boardwalk. Then take a ride on the Sky Cabin for breathtaking panoramic views across this ground-breaking American landmark.The Mexican-themed Fiesta Village was the second attraction to follow the Ghost Town, opening in 1969 and offering a number of iconic rides, from the vertiginous Montezooma’s Revenge roller coaster to the charming Merry Go Round, one of the oldest working carousels in the world, adorned with 48 hand-carved animals. Once you’ve had your fill of the thrills, bag a table at one of the Mexican restaurants to feed your inner bandit so that you’re ready to take on the opposition in a round of Shoot If Yucan! Then cool your heels with a dip at neighbouring Knott’s Soak City Water Park (entry subject to additional charge).Knott’s Berry Farm® is easily reached by Metrolink to Buena Park station and there is pay parking on-site. Opening times vary according to season.