Buena Park: More Fun with Less Funds – A Budget Theme Park Destination
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Buena Park: More Fun with Less Funds – A Budget Theme Park Destination

Nestled in sunny Southern California lies a hidden gem that promises all the excitement of top-tier theme park destinations but without the price tag. Buena Park, often hailed as a hidden treasure for family vacations, offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences at a fraction of the cost of its counterparts. Let’s dive into all the attractions that SoCal’s Fun City has to offer.
HangTime at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA

World-Renowned Theme Parks
Buena Park is home to Knott's Berry Farm theme park, a living testament to California's rich heritage and innovation. What started as a humble berry farm in the 1920s by Walter and Cordelia Knott eventually blossomed into California’s First Theme Park. Its legacy is intertwined with the boysenberry, a hybrid berry first cultivated by the Knott family, which remains a staple in its culinary offerings today. The theme park continues to preserve its agricultural roots while also offering world-class entertainment and thrill rides today.

Highlights of Knott's Berry Farm include the newly refreshed Camp Snoopy, a whimsical area filled with interactive attractions such as Snoopy’s Tenderpaw Twister Coaster—a family-friendly ride that takes you up a lift hill and launches into pint-sized excitement. Thrill-seekers can brave HangTime, California's first dive coaster, in the adrenaline-pumping Boardwalk area, while Fiesta Village delights with spinning ride vehicles at the Hat Dance and authentic Mexican cuisine at Cantina del Sur. For history enthusiasts, Ghost Town offers immersive experiences and heart-pounding attractions like GhostRider, one of the world's longest wooden roller coasters, and the nostalgic Calico Mine Ride aboard an old-fashioned mine train. For even better pricing on tickets to Knott’s Berry Farm, check out our Deals page.

Water slides at Knott's Soak City in Buena Park, CA

Adjacent to Knott's Berry Farm is Knott's Soak City, a seasonal 15-acre water park perfect for cooling off on sunny days. This expansive water park features a variety of thrilling water slides, from the high-speed Old Man Falls to the heart-pounding Shore Break, which includes six different slides for varying levels of thrill. Families can relax in inner tubes on the Sunset River, a lazy river that meanders through the park, or catch some waves in the expansive Tidal Wave Bay. For younger visitors, Gremmie Lagoon offers pint-sized slides and water play areas designed just for them.

Knott's Berry Farm and Knott's Soak City offer more than just thrilling rides and water slides—they provide exceptional value with modest price points. In comparison to other theme parks, Knott's offers a more affordable option for coaster fanatics and families alike to enjoy a full day of entertainment without breaking the bank, and typically more manageable crowds. Plus, you can easily experience each park in one day, maximizing your adventure without stretching your budget.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament in Buena Park, CA
Interactive Dinner Shows
Pirates Dinner Adventure combines swashbuckling action with a delectable three-course meal. Imagine thrilling acrobatics, sword fights, and impressive stunts—all aboard an 18th-century Spanish ship. Young guests and their families may even be invited on stage to participate in exciting challenges, with the bravest earning a spot on Captain Sebastian’s crew as sworn pirates. At Medieval Times, you will be transported into the age of chivalry in an epic jousting arena complete with a meal you’ll get to eat entirely with your hands. Imagine being in a grand castle invited by the queen herself, cheering on knights as they joust, swordfight, and showcase their equestrian skills. Don't forget to catch the knights as they gallantly throw roses to select ladies out in the crowd. Buena Park's newest hot spot, the Beach Boulevard Club, invites you to experience dueling pianos, a jazzy vocalist, craft cocktails, and delectable appetizers in a stylish setting reminiscent of the prohibition days of the 1920s. Step into this classy cocktail lounge and let the smooth sounds of talented pianists set the mood as you mix and mingle with your travel party.
Potato balls at Porto's Bakery in Buena Park, CA

Award-Winning Casual Dining
Buena Park offers a foodie adventure that will delight every palate, starting with classic theme park fare within Knott's Berry Farm. From boysenberry fudge and giant turkey legs to stuffed churros and classic corn dogs, you can explore our detailed Knott's Berry Farm Food Guide for all the must-try items throughout the theme park. Just outside the gates of the park, Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant has been serving its famous fried chicken, buttery biscuits, and hearty mashed potatoes since 1934, making it a beloved tradition for many. For a taste of Chicago, head to Portillo's for their iconic hot dogs loaded with mustard, relish, and celery salt, or indulge in their savory Italian beef sandwiches dipped in au jus. Don’t forget about Porto's Bakery, where you can enjoy award-winning Cuban pastries and sandwiches that have made this establishment a household name in Southern California. Buena Park's newly designated Koreatown offers premium Korean dining experiences with the convenience of free parking and more manageable crowds than larger metropolitan areas, allowing visitors to explore and savor local establishments with ease.

Family at Huntington Beach, CA

Nearby Attractions
Near Buena Park, you'll find a variety of affordable attractions perfect for a day of family fun. Head to Huntington Beach, just a short drive away, known for its scenic coastline and lively pier, offering free beach access and plenty of affordable dining options nearby. Explore marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, where you can marvel at diverse sea creatures and interactive exhibits without breaking the bank. For a closer look at wildlife, visit the Santa Ana Zoo, known for its intimate size and family-friendly atmosphere, offering a more affordable alternative to larger zoos in the Southern California region.

Affordable Accommodations
Buena Park offers a variety of affordable accommodations, each with unique amenities to enhance your stay in SoCal’s Fun City. Enjoy lower sales tax and no resort fees compared to nearby cities, making it a budget-friendly choice for your Southern California getaway. The DoubleTree by Hilton boasts the largest pool in town and provides complimentary shuttle service to Knott’s Berry Farm and nearby Disneyland, ensuring a seamless and convenient adventure as you check off your attraction bucket list.

Rosemary Room at Hilton Buena Park

The newly opened Hilton Buena Park features a heated rooftop pool, the Rosemary Room restaurant with a chef-curated menu, and amenities like a Peloton bike and yoga studio in the gym. Knott’s Hotel recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation, showcasing farmhouse chic decor and Thirty Acres Kitchen, serving American comfort food just steps from the theme and water parks. Each room at Knott’s Hotel features sofa sleepers for added roominess. They also provide a shuttle service to Disneyland for those checking out multiple SoCal theme parks during their stay.

Courtyard by Marriott offers EV charging stations and a fire pit by the pool for a cozy evening experience, located across from Porto’s Bakery and popular dinner shows. Fairfield Inn and Hampton Inn provide free hot breakfast and spacious suites for their guests.

For budget-conscious travelers, options like Good Nite Inn, Best Inn & Suites, Surestay, Days Inn, Motel 6, Howard Johnson, Buena Park Hotel, and more provide comfortable and affordable lodging. Visit our Stay page for a full list of accommodations.
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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