Beyond the Coasters: A Non-Rider’s Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm, nestled in the heart of Buena Park, California, is a beloved destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. But what if roller coasters and rides aren’t your cup of tea? Fear not, there’s a world of fun waiting for you beyond the twists and turns of the park’s famous coasters. Here’s how you can soak up the joy of Knott’s Berry Farm without setting foot on a single ride.

Meeting horses in the Livery Stable at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA

Travel Back in Time in Ghost Town
Step back in time in Ghost Town, the original land of Knott’s Berry Farm dating back to the 1940s. Here, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of the Gold Rush era by panning for real gold from the Yukon River in Alaska, just as the prospectors did over a century ago. Feel the heat and hear the clang of metal at the blacksmith’s shop, a fixture of Ghost Town since its inception, where skilled artisans continue the age-old craft. Don’t forget to visit the Livery Stable, where you can meet and pet the friendly horses, connecting with the animals that were an integral part of life in the Old West. And for a unique interactive experience, have a conversation with Sad Eyed Joe, the prisoner in Ghost Town Jail, who will humorously engage with visitors of all ages.

Delight in the Culinary Offerings
At Knott’s Berry Farm, you can indulge in a culinary journey that includes the original Mrs. Knott’s fried chicken at her namesake restaurant, savor boysenberry pies and other baked delights at the Farm Bakery, enjoy classic and loaded funnel cakes at Sutter’s Funnel Cake or Cable Car Kitchen, relish BBQ favorites at Fireman’s BBQ, and treat yourself to gourmet, stuffed churros at the Churro Factory—all while soaking in the park’s rich history as the birthplace of the boysenberry and a culinary destination. For even more details on what to eat, check out our Foodie Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm.

Merchandise at the Berry Market at Knott's California Marketplace in Buena Park, CA

Enjoy Live Entertainment
The Walter Knott Theater, named after the founder of the park, hosts a variety of seasonal shows, ranging from Christmas spectaculars to eerie Halloween masterpieces. For a dose of humor and bluegrass, Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies will have you clapping and stomping along to their energetic tunes. You can also immerse yourself in the rich culture of Native American dancers and storytellers as they share their heritage through powerful dances and captivating stories.

Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Visitors can take home a piece of Knott's famous culinary heritage with jars of their signature boysenberry jam, an exclusive treat available only in stores on theme park property. In Fiesta Village, you can find vibrant keepsakes such as collectible pins, chamoy candies, hot sauces, queso, and culturally inspired items like woven fans and colorful zarapes. Additionally, Knott's offers custom-made leather goods, including belts and wallets, crafted right on site at Kama’s Leather Shop in Ghost Town. If you’re still looking for a few more souvenirs on your way out of the park, you can browse through the California Marketplace just outside the front gates. Stop at Virginia’s Gift Shop, a Knott’s staple since 1938, featuring clothing, jewelry, and an assortment of boysenberry treats. For the ultimate Peanuts experience, don’t miss a visit to the Peanuts Headquarters, where fans of all ages can immerse themselves in the world of Charlie Brown and friends with an array of themed merchandise, from clothing and toys to collectibles and home decor, ensuring every visitor leaves with their very own piece of this beloved comic strip legacy.

Handsome Brady and Whiskey Bill at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA

Snap an Amazing Photo Opp
Knott’s Berry Farm is home to a variety of fun and picturesque spots perfect for capturing memorable moments. One of the most unique experiences can be found at the Knott’s Pitchur Gallery in Ghost Town. Here, you can dress up in old-time costumes and take sepia-toned photos, making you feel as if you’re back in the 19^th century. Adding to the charm, the sculptures of Handsome Brady and Whiskey Bill, the original cowboy duo, have been a staple since 1947. Located on the porch of the Gold Trails Hotel in Ghost Town, these figures are among the most photographed in America, according to Kodak film processing labs.

Another beloved pair of sculptures, the Calico Belles, represent saloon entertainers Marilyn Schuler and Cecelia Peterson. Introduced in August 1954 by sculptor Claude Bell, these figures were modeled after the actual performers from the Calico Saloon. Over time, their names changed, but they have now returned to being known as Marilyn and Cecelia, continuing to inspire a wide range of poses from visitors of all ages.

Carnevil scary clown at Knott's Scary Farm in Buena Park, CA

Seasonal Festivities
Knott’s Berry Farm celebrates the changing seasons with a variety of special events that offer something unique throughout the year. The festivities begin with the Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration, where beloved PEANUTS characters take center stage with themed activities, treats, and photo opportunities. Springtime brings the Boysenberry Festival, a tribute to the park’s agricultural roots, featuring boysenberry-inspired treats and live entertainment. As summer arrives, Knott’s Summer Nights takes over with live music, food booths, and interactive experiences. During the daytime, guests can dive into the immersive Ghost Town Alive!, where they can become part of an interactive story filled with Old West adventures and characters. In the fall, families can enjoy Knott’s Spooky Farm, a kid-friendly Halloween event, while thrill-seekers might prefer the eerie Knott’s Scary Farm, whose graphic and gory mazes are not for the faint of heart. The year concludes with Knott’s Merry Farm, where the holiday spirit fills the air with festive decor and classic yuletide entertainment. Each event is packed with activities that go beyond roller coasters, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

After a long day of excitement, choose from over a dozen comfortable and affordable hotels in Buena Park. Check out our ‘suite’ hotel and ticket deals. To start planning your SoCal vacation, order your FREE Buena Park Travel Guide.

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Riders on Hangtime ride at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA

Beyond the Coasters: A Non-Rider’s Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm

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