Knott’s Berry Farm Reports Record Attendance Growth in 2024

Knott’s Berry Farm achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024, reporting a record attendance of 4.5 million visitors, marking a significant increase of 6.5% from the previous year. This growth positions Knott’s as the top performer in the latest attendance figures released by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA). Unlike its competitors, such as Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott’s has managed to maintain this upward trend without the introduction of major new attractions.

The park’s officials expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “Knott’s Berry Farm and its associates set out each day to create fun and memorable experiences for our guests. To not only maintain our regular visitation but to grow it is a testament to our mission and the commitment of the team.”

Consistent Growth Amidst Competition

Knott’s Berry Farm has demonstrated consistent attendance growth over the past three years, with increases of 6% in 2022 and 8.4% in 2023. The latest figures confirm that the park has effectively recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, during which attendance plummeted to an all-time low of 800,000 visitors in 2020. The rebound began in 2021, when the park welcomed 3.7 million guests, nearly quadrupling the previous year’s numbers.

Despite the competitive landscape, where Disneyland reported a modest increase of 0.5% in attendance and Universal Studios Hollywood experienced a decline of 9.9%, Knott’s has focused on gradual enhancements rather than large-scale attractions. The park’s upgrades have included refurbishments in areas like Camp Snoopy and Fiesta Village, which have contributed to an inviting atmosphere for both returning and new guests.

Strategic Updates Drive Engagement

The success of Knott’s is attributed to a combination of strategic updates and seasonal events. The park introduced new family-friendly attractions, such as the updated Camp Snoopy, which features a new coaster and expanded playground facilities. Additionally, the Fiesta Village area underwent a makeover in 2023, enhancing its theming, rides, and dining options.

The park’s signature events, including the annual Knott’s Scary Farm and the upcoming Merry Farm, continue to attract large crowds. The Scary Farm event, which runs from September 18 to November 1, is particularly popular, offering ten mazes and five scare zones that keep thrill-seekers engaged.

The upcoming transformation of the park’s classic Schwarzkopf flywheel-launch shuttle loop coaster into Montezooma: Forbidden Fortress is highly anticipated. Although this project has faced delays, it highlights Knott’s commitment to evolving its offerings to maintain visitor interest.

Further developments are expected as Knott’s prepares for a redesign of the Soak City water park, set to commence in 2026. This expansion reflects the park’s ongoing strategy to enhance guest experiences across its facilities.

As Knott’s Berry Farm looks to the future, the focus remains on welcoming guests with engaging experiences, maintaining momentum in attendance growth, and adapting to the evolving landscape of family entertainment. The park’s ability to thrive without major new attractions sets it apart in a competitive market, showcasing the effectiveness of its strategic initiatives and commitment to guest satisfaction.