Theme Parks Lure With Summer Fun

Rides, water, animals, and more can be experienced at theme parks across the country.

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, California, put the focus on unusual trees, such as this one overlooking the children's water-play area. Courtesy of Lora Parks/Dreamstime

In 1829, a Pennsylvania man named Henry Knoebel bought a small wooded area that he used for farming. Decades later, when roadside attractions were becoming popular, a creek-fed swimming hole and picnic area were added, and visitors could purchase snacks, ice cream, and soft drinks.

Over time, this evolved into the Knoebels Amusement Resort, which continues to be operated by the members of the founding family. Along with more than 60 rides, it offers some unusual features, including two haunted houses and historic carousels that were constructed in 1910 and 1913, with music provided by organs dating back even earlier. Adding to the unexpected attractions are museums devoted to carousels, mining, and history.