1) Knoebels
Where: Elysburg, Pennsylvania
Season: April – November
What’s Free: Entry — plus parking, entertainment and picnic facilities
Knoebels Amusement Resort, a family-owned destination since 1926, is the largest free-admission amusement park in the United States. Visitors have the freedom to decide where to spend their money, whether on pay-per-ride attractions or food. Located in Pennsylvania, the park features over 60 attractions, including the iconic Phoenix, a massive wooden roller coaster, and the timeless Grand Carousel, which has been hand-carved and delighting guests for over a century.
2) Navy Pier
Where: On the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois
Season: Open year-round
What’s Free: Entry, as well as select entertainment and fireworks
Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, this destination offers 3,300 feet of family-friendly fun with unbeatable views. While some popular attractions, like The Centennial Wheel, require tickets, many experiences are free to enjoy. These include entry, the stunning summer fireworks—renowned as some of the best in the nation—and Chicago Live!, a vibrant performing arts festival showcasing music, dance, theater, spoken word, improv, vocal performances, and more.
3) Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks
Where: Wildwood, New Jersey
Season: March – October
What’s Free: Entry
Representing the Garden State on this list is Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks, featuring three unique piers with over 100 rides and attractions, along with two water parks. While tickets are required for the water parks, the ride areas operate on a pay-per-ride basis, making them accessible to all visitors of the 2.5-mile-long Wildwood Boardwalk, known for its classic boardwalk charm. Insider tip: Visit on a Friday to catch the spectacular Friday Night Fireworks.
4) Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
Where: Santa Monica, California
Season: Open year-round
What’s Free: Entry
Another iconic boardwalk gem! Santa Monica’s renowned pier offers concession stands, biking paths, fishing spots, and Pacific Park—Los Angeles’s only admission-free amusement park. Operating on a pay-per-ride system, it features attractions worth splurging on for breathtaking views of the Southern California coastline. Don’t miss the Route 66 West Coaster, which reaches 55 feet, or the Pacific Wheel, the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, taking you up to 130 feet for stunning vistas.
5) Luna Park in Coney Island
Where: Brooklyn, New York
Season: March – October*
What’s Free: Entry
Coney Island in NYC is an iconic destination that’s a must-visit. While you’re there, check out Luna Park, a vibrant amusement park with free entry and a nostalgic, turn-of-the-century vibe that perfectly complements the island’s charm. The park features thrill rides like Cyclone and Thunderbolt for adults, as well as plenty of kid-friendly attractions, including Sky Tykes, Tony’s Express, and Leti’s Treasure.
6) Hershey’s Chocolate World
Where: Hershey, Pennsylvania
Season: Open year-round
What’s Free: Entry and the Hershey’s Chocolate Tour
Hershey Park, the resort dedicated to the famous candy brand, is definitely a fun experience — though you’ll need to buy a ticket to get in. However, if you’re looking for a shorter (and possibly educational) outing, check out Hershey’s Chocolate World. It’s free to enter and offers a complimentary attraction: the Hershey’s Chocolate Tour. On this factory tour, you’ll see how the chocolate is made and enjoy a free sample at the end. (Perfect for little fans of Willy Wonka!)