BEST TIMES TO VISIT KNOTT'S

As with Disneyland, Knott’s tends to be busiest on weekends, particularly Saturdays. If you can, visiting mid-week is best. Park attendance also swells a bit in the late afternoon and evening hours when it’s open late. The reason—drastically reduced admission after 4:00 pm. The crowd changes from the family vacation set to local young people with that admission change as well. Arrive as early as you can for the shortest possible lines for the major attractions. Popular attractions such as the Silver Bullet, Ghost Rider, and Xcelerator can have very long lines. Fast Lane wristbands allow you to bypass the regular lines, but they aren't cheap:  $65/each for 1-3 wristbands, and $55/each for 4 or more wristbands, on top of regular ticket prices. Lines can be quite deceiving, and there is no approximate waiting time posted at the entry of the queue.

Families with young children can easily spend an entire day in Camp Snoopy. There are more than 30 attractions available for the younger set. Children (and Western history buffs) may also enjoy the Ghost Town blacksmith, the Old School House, Western Trails Museum, and Ghost Town Jail.

You'll find plenty of attractions for the whole family to enjoy throughout the park. If thrill rides are your thing, you might want to make your way directly to the Boardwalk area at the back of the park—most guests head directly to the Silver Bullet or Ghost Rider first thing because they’re closer to the entrance. There are enough thrill rides for even the most daring adventurer. We strongly suggest you shop in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Remember to take breaks regularly throughout the day and drink plenty of water.

Knott’s is not organized on a “hub” like Disneyland. It’s easy to become lost while meandering under all those roller coasters. It’s a good idea to consult your map to make sure you see everything you want to see; you may not encounter everything simply by walking in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

TICKETS AT KNOTT'S BERRY FARM

Full-day admission at the park’s ticket booth is $72/adults, $42/junior (ages 3-11) and seniors ages 62 and older. Southern California residents are $46.99/ adults. Advance purchase using Print@Home at http://www.knotts.com is typically significantly cheaper, but pricing can vary. Note that kids age 2 and under are always free. Season passes are $87 (ages 3+). A Gold Pass (both the theme park and water park) is $105 (ages 3+). For more information, visit http:// www.knotts.com or call 714-220-5200.

SHOPPING AT KNOTT'S BERRY FARM

Knott’s shops specialize in western and Native American-style crafts. You’ll also find Peanuts merchandise, famous homemade jams and jellies, and standard theme park souvenirs. Here are some of our favorite themed shops: