As an Orange County local, I’ve been to Knott’s Berry Farm plenty of times — first as a kid, then as an adult. My old work place even held parties there.

But this was my first visit to Knotts with two energetic 4-year-olds (my daughter and her cousin), and honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

Spoiler alert: it totally lived up to the hype. Knott’s has so much for little ones, and here’s what worked for us.

What is Knott’s Berry Farm?

It’s a classic theme park in Buena Park, just a short drive from Disneyland. Here’s what you can expect:

• Peanuts characters your kids will love
• Gentle rides perfect for toddlers and little kids
• Big roller coasters for teens and adults who love thrills
• An old-school vibe with a fun Western twist

Unlike Disneyland’s fairy tale feel, Knott’s offers something a little different that many kids really enjoy.

Best Rides for Toddlers at Knott’s Berry Farm

Understanding Height Requirements

Here’s what I wish someone had told me before our first visit.

Each ride has a Safety Guide board:

1. Height Requirements: My daughter actually loved checking her height to see if she was “big enough” – it became part of the fun!
   1. At 4 years old, she was about 38″.
   2. You might see 2 height rules: one for riding alone, and a lower one if a grown-up rides along (“accompanied”).
2. Thrill Levels: The thrill seeker scores range from 1 (low thrill) to 4 (hold onto your hat). You know your adventurous kids versus your scaredy cats, though they might just surprise you!

Rides That Even Babies & Tiny Toddlers Can Do (With an Adult) – Any Height

These rides welcome little ones of any height, as long as an adult rides along. Your child can enjoy the fun while staying safe and cozy right next to you.

Pro tip: Most rides for babies and toddlers are in Camp Snoopy, making it the perfect first stop. You can let your little ones explore safely while getting a feel for the park before tackling the bigger rides.

Train & Transportation Rides

• Beagle Express Railroad: Train ride through Camp Snoopy
• Calico Mine Ride: Train ride through Calico Mine
• Calico Railroad: Train ride on real railroad tracks
• Butterfield Stagecoach: Cart ride with real horses
  • Check the sign at entrance for daily hours, usually starts around 11am or 12pm

Gentle Rides

• Camp Snoopy’s Off-Road Rally: Mini cars on a track
• Carrusel de California: Classic carousel
• Sky Cabin: Panoramic view tower

Family-Friendly Rides

• Return to the Fair: 4-D interactive dark tour ride virtual shooting game
• Pig Pen’s Mud Buddies: Small bumpy cars in loops
• Rapid River Fun: Group boat that spins on a curved track

Little Kid Rides

32″ and Taller

• Flying Ace: Small airplanes in a loop soaring up and down

Fair warning: Most adults are too tall (the ride height allowed is only 32”-54”), so your brave toddler will be flying solo (or with other kids)!

36″ and Up (Can Ride Alone)

Once your toddler hits 36 inches, a whole new world opens up, and they can ride these rides independently (but you can still accompany them):

• Balloon Race: Classic balloon-themed spinning ride
• Camp Snoopy’s Off-Road Rally: Mini cars on a track
• Pig Pen’s Mud Buddies: Small bumpy cars in loops
• Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer: Flying ride that goes up and down

The “Big Kid” Transition Rides

36″ with Adult or 42”+ Alone

Ready for some real excitement?

• Snoopy’s Tenderpaw Twister Coaster: A roller coaster for little ones
• Linus Launcher: Lie face-down and rise (my 4-year-old was too scared for this one)
• Hat Dance: Spinning teacup-style ride
• Sally’s Swing Along: Group bench swing

36″ with Adult or 44”+ Alone

• Surfside Gliders: Flying ride with ocean views

36″ with Adult or 48”+ Alone

• Pacific Scrambler: Fast spinning ride with multiple cars

Need more details? Check out Knott’s ride filter by height requirements.

💡 Tip: If you’re planning to visit Knott’s plus 1–2 other attractions, the LA All-Inclusive Pass (adult $99, child $64, kids 2 & under free) can save you money—since a single Knott’s ticket is at least $62 online, just a couple more stops make the pass worth it.

Beyond the Rides: More Toddler Activities at Knott’s Berry Farm

Meet Your Favorite Characters (Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang)

Character meet-and-greets happen randomly throughout the park – keep your eyes peeled! We stumbled upon Snoopy near the Berry Factory and got the most adorable photos.

Pro-Tips:

• Have your phone camera ready at all times (bring a wireless power bank too) because if you’re anything like me, you will take too many pictures and videos
• Download the Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app to check what time and where they will be.

Beary Tales Arcade at the Boardwalk

Located next to the Berry Factory, this arcade was a huge hit with our group of 4-year-olds. We easily spent an hour here, which was perfect for giving everyone’s feet a break!

Here’s how it works:

• Buy a game card with credits
• Most games cost 6-10 credits each

Driving game hack: Pull the lever under the seat up and push forward so little ones can actually reach the steering wheel. I also learned that if you don’t press the gas pedal after 5 seconds, it will just automatically accelerate (meaning, you don’t have to press the gas pedal) – lifesaver for toddlers with short legs!

Carnival Games at the Boardwalk

If your toddler loves games and you don’t mind potentially carrying around a stuffed animal all day, the Boardwalk carnival games are so much fun. Just prepare your wallet and your arms!

• Ring toss
• Balloon darts
• Ball throws

Special Souvenir Experiences

If your little ones love a keepsake to remember the day, Knott’s has plenty of options—just like at a classic county fair:

• Face painting – Fun designs for all ages; a colorful way to start the day.
• Caricature drawings – A quirky keepsake of your family’s adventure.
• Henna tattoos – Temporary art that kids (and adults!) can show off.

Note: These are extra paid activities, but they make memorable souvenirs and pictures that your kids will love.

Pan for Gold at Ghost Town

Let your kids get a little messy and hands-on with this fun activity! They’ll dip their hands in water and dirt to search for tiny gold nuggets.

• Located in front of Knott’s Cemetery in Ghost Town
• Costs $10 per person
• Each participant gets to take home a piece of gold in a small glass vial

It’s a perfect way to mix history, adventure, and a little treasure hunting into your day!

Browsing Toys at Gift Shops

We love ducking into gift shops for some air conditioning and toy browsing. Just make sure you know your child’s tolerance for looking-but-not-buying before you venture in!

Build-A-Bear Workshop

Right outside the park, there’s a Knott’s-themed Build-A-Bear that’s absolutely magical for toddlers. You pick the “skin,” watch it get stuffed, add a special heart, and customize with clothes and accessories.

Birthday hack: Ask about the “pay your age” birthday bear deal – it could be as low as $2 for your little one, plus they get a free crown and sticker!

Summer Entertainment

If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t miss Ghost Town Alive and Summer Nights. Both are full of fun for kids and adults alike.

Ghost Town Alive!

Step into Calico and become part of a real western adventure.

• Meet bandits, cowboys, and judges
• Watch (or join) a hoedown
• Take on little tasks and activities as an honorary citizen of Calico
• Perfect for kids who love role-playing and interactive fun

It’s not just a show—it’s an experience where your kids can feel like stars in a Wild West story.

Pro-Tip: Go early or late. For Ghost Town Alive, arrive early to participate in the full experience before it gets crowded.

Summer Nights

When the sun goes down, the party begins.

• Live music and dancing for all ages
• Unique summer food offerings 🍔🌭
• Instagram-worthy photo spots
• Family-friendly games and interactive experiences

It’s a chance for everyone to let loose. Adults and kids alike are laughing, dancing, and making summer memories.

Pro-Tip: Summer Nights is best after 6 PM, when the music kicks off. Check the Knott’s Berry Farm app for exact performance times and locations. Grab dinner first (or during), so the kids aren’t hangry!

💡 Tip: Doing more than just Knott’s toddler activities? The LA All-Inclusive Pass covers 39 attractions. Visiting even 1 or 2 additional spots can make the pass pay off.

Tips for Visiting Knott’s Berry Farm with Toddlers

What to Pack for Knott’s Berry Farm With Toddlers and Little Kids

Packing smart makes your day so much smoother. Here’s my go-to list:

• Stroller: Tons of walking! Let your toddler walk if they want, but having a stroller is a lifesaver when they don’t.
• Sun hat & sunblock: Because sunburns are the ultimate party pooper.
• Refillable water bottle: There are plenty of refill stations. Staying hydrated = happy toddlers.
• Snacks: You know it. Hangry toddlers are not fun anywhere.
• Something to occupy the kids in line: Bubbles, sticker books, or fidget toys work great.
• Diapers, changing mat, wipes, hand sanitizer: If your little one isn’t potty trained yet, these are lifesavers.
• Extra set of clothes: Because spills, ice cream, or mud happen. Always pack one!
• Power bank charger: I took so many photos and videos that I almost ran out of battery.

What You Should Know Before You Go

Getting Around

• Stroller parking: Most little kid rides have nearby spots.
• Shorter security line if you have a stroller: Use the stroller/wheelchair access line at entry.
• Plan breaks: Stroller naps or quiet spots are lifesavers.

Facilities & Essentials

• Water stations: Plenty of them near bathrooms! Bring a refillable water bottle and keep it filled.
• Phone charging: Bring a power bank with you for when your phone dies mid-selfie, like mine.
• Special needs?: Guest Services (between Ghost Rider and lockers) can help.

Timing & Crowds

• Arrive early: 30 min before opening. Camp Snoopy gets crowded fast, especially on weekends. Hit Camp Snoopy’s Off-Road Rally first!
• Busy times: Summer, holidays, and school breaks. Expect crowds.
• Line for shows early: Especially the Snoopy Ice Show during the winter season. For Snow & Glow in Ghost Town (also winter-only), grab a spot near the snow boxes on the roofs for the best “snow” experience.

Planning Fun

• Download the app: Shows, character meet-and-greets, ride wait times, and dining info all in one place.
• Watch the Peanuts Movie first: Your toddler will go wild spotting Snoopy and friends…once they know who they are.
• Rider Swap: One parent rides while the other stays with the kids. Awesome parent perk for rides that both parents want to go on!

Parking

• Parking tip: You can’t leave and re-enter, so plan to eat inside the park unless you are leaving for good.

💡 Tip: Tickets to Knott’s start at $62 online, but the LA All-Inclusive Pass (adult $99, child $64, kids 2 & under free) includes 39 attractions. If you hit a couple more, you’ll likely come out ahead.

Where to Eat at Knott’s Berry Farm

Eating at Knott’s with toddlers can be tricky—but it’s totally doable if you know where to go. Here’s my tried-and-true guide:

My Favorite Restaurant Inside the Park: Fireman’s Brigade BBQ

• What to order: BBQ Chicken, BBQ Ribs, Garlic Cheese Toast
• Timing tip: Lines can get long, so try before or after the lunch/dinner rush
• Bonus: Outside seating means kids can move around a bit while you eat

My Kids’ Favorite Restaurant Inside the Park: Prop Shop Pizzeria (Italian)

• Offers brick oven pizzas, pasta, salads, and garlic “Knott’s” bread
• Perfect for toddlers: you really can’t go wrong with pizza

Dessert: Sutter’s Funnel Cake in Ghost Town

• Classic funnel cake goodness—crispy, sweet, and fun to share
• Try the “Fully Loaded” version with ice cream and toppings: boysenberry, strawberry, or chocolate
• Makes for a perfect mid-park snack

Most Convenient: Grizzly Creek Lodge at Camp Snoopy

• Cafeteria-style food with hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, and chicken tenders
• Quick seating with a good view for parents
• Food is convenient but not amazing—perfect if you’re already in Camp Snoopy and don’t want to walk and kids are full-rage mode

Boysenberry Festival (Spring every year)

This is an annual food & wine festival celebrating the berry that started it all, with savory dishes, one-of-a-kind desserts, and specialty drinks, including boysenberry wine and craft beer, available only at Knott’s during this event.

• Knott’s is famous for boysenberry everything (fun novelty for kids to try)
• Grab a tasting card to sample your way through—perfect for lunch or a sweet treat break (helps avoid long sit-down meals)

Where to stay in Buena Park with Kids?

Hampton Inn & Suites Buena Park

Distance: About a 7–10 minute drive to Knott’s Berry Farm, roughly 3 miles—easy for a quick park drop-off or return for a nap.

Why it’s great for families: Spacious rooms, free hot breakfast, and an outdoor pool perfect for toddlers to splash after the park.

Perks: Free Wi-Fi, mini-fridge and microwave in every room, free parking, and family-friendly suites available.

Price Range: Typically $150–$280 per night, depending on room type and season.

Book your stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Buena Park: Booking.com | Expedia

How to Get Around Buena Park With Kids

Here are the best options for families:

🚗 Drive or Rent a Car (Most Flexible)

Best for: Families planning to explore all of Orange County, including beaches, LA, or attractions outside Anaheim.

• Most flexible way to get around
• Keep car seats in the car – no need to haul them around while you explore
• Parking:
  • Usually free in most of Orange County
  • Paid at most major attractions and hotels (e.g., Disneyland, California Adventure, Downtown Disney, Anaheim GardenWalk, Anaheim Convention Center)
• Brings freedom to travel on your own schedule

🚖 Rideshares (Uber & Lyft)

• Widely available throughout Orange County.
• Smooth for quick trips or airport transfers.
• Con: You’ll need to bring your own car seats if traveling with young kids.

🚌 Public Transportation (OC Bus)

Best for: Families traveling on a tight budget and not bringing small kids.

• Cost: $2 one-way, $5 day pass
  • Reduced fares for youth, seniors, and people with disabilities
  • Free for children 5 and under when accompanied by a paying customer.
  • For OC locals: kids ages 6-18 can get a Youth Ride Free pass through most Orange County K-12 schools (but allow up to 14 days for it to be processed)
• Passes available in the OC Bus app
• Less convenient for families:
  • Long routes
  • Often require transfers
  • Strollers must be folded

FAQ: Knott’s Berry Farm With Toddlers and Little Kids

Is Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm better for toddlers?

In my experience, Knott’s Berry Farm wins for toddlers.

Here’s why:

• All the little-kid rides in one area – Camp Snoopy makes it easy to hit everything without running all over the park.
• Shorter lines – Most rides were a breeze, anywhere from no wait to about 20 minutes.
• Toddler-focused rides – Some rides don’t even require you to ride with them, which is a game-changer compared to Disneyland.
• Lower cost – Tickets and annual passes are much more budget-friendly than Disneyland.
• Less crowded – Way easier to navigate with strollers and little ones.

Biggest con: My daughter didn’t recognize Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, but she still got excited seeing them in costume. However, at Disneyland, she knew exactly who aren’t as familiar as Minnie Mouse, Belle (Beauty and the Beast), Mulan, or Buzz Lightyear (Toy Story) was as she took pictures with them or saw them in passing in parades.

When to choose Knott’s:

• Shorter lines and less crowded
• Toddlers need rides close together
• Budget-friendly or multiple visits
• Prefer easier navigation with strollers
• Spend less time at the theme park (easier to get in and out)

When to choose Disneyland:

• Toddlers love Disney characters
• You want to see the parade of movie characters or end-of-day fireworks
• You’re okay with bigger crowds & longer lines
• Want to explore California Adventure too
• Seeking iconic rides & experiences for all ages

Is my child big enough to ride the rides at Knott’s?

Every ride has a height requirement. Some allow kids to ride with an adult if they don’t meet the solo height. The park also posts a thrill level for each ride—from 1 (low thrill) to 4 (hold on tight!).

Check my full rides guide for toddlers and little kids.

How much is parking at Knott’s?

• General parking: $35 for standard vehicles/motorcycles, $40 for buses/RVs
• Preferred parking: $55 (closer to park entrance)
• Note: Parking fees don’t allow re-entry into the lot
• All-season parking pass: $90, unlimited parking—worth it if parking 3+ times in a year

When is the least crowded time to go?

Weekdays outside of summer are your best bet. Avoid holidays like Christmas (Merry Farm) and Halloween (Scary Farm). Seasonal events can also make the park busier, so check the calendar before planning.

Is a Knott’s Berry Farm season pass worth it?

If you plan to visit more than twice in 1 year then yes!

Season passes currently give unlimited visits from now through the end of 2026.

Options include:

• $95 – Knott’s only
• $120 – Knott’s + Six Flags parks
• $245 – Knott’s + Six Flags + preferred parking

How much are tickets for a single-day visit?

• $62 online in advance (saves up to $50 vs. buying at the gate + skip the line)
• Free for kids 2 years and under

What times is Knott’s open?

Open hours tend to be 10am-6pm on weekdays and 10am-10pm on weekends, but hours vary seasonally, so check the website for the hours of the date you’re going.

How far is Knott’s Berry Farm?

• From Disneyland: ~3 miles (~10 minutes)
• From LAX: ~35 miles (~45–60 minutes)
• From Huntington Beach: ~20 miles (~30 minutes)
• From Long Beach Airport: ~17 miles (~25 minutes)
• From John Wayne Airport: ~16 miles (~25 minutes)

Is Knott’s Berry Farm good for toddlers?

Absolutely!

Activities for toddlers at Knott’s include:

• Many rides are perfect for toddlers—most are in Camp Snoopy—and some can even ride alone on some of the rides, depending on their height.
• Arcade games
• Carnival games
• Pan for gold
• Face painting
• Build-A-Bear workshop
• Live outdoor shows that keep little ones entertained (check the Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app for when and where)

It’s a great mix of activities that lets toddlers explore, play, and have fun.

Does Knott’s Berry Farm have rides for toddlers?

Absolutely! Toddlers of any height can enjoy rides as long as an adult rides along, making it a safe and fun experience for the little ones. Most of these rides are in Camp Snoopy, which is perfect for letting your toddler explore without overwhelming them.

You’ll find:

• Train & transportation rides like the Beagle Express Railroad and Calico Mine Ride
• Gentle rides such as the carousel and mini off-road cars
• Family-friendly rides like Pig Pen’s Mud Buddies and Rapid River Fun

Once your child hits 36 inches, they can ride several attractions independently, including Balloon Race, Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer, and Camp Snoopy’s Off-Road Rally.

It’s a great way to let toddlers experience the park while keeping the grown-ups close by.

Get more details on rides with toddlers here.

Are there trains or transportation rides at Knott’s Berry Farm?

Yes! The Beagle Express Railroad, Calico Mine Ride, Calico Railroad, and Butterfield Stagecoach are perfect for little ones—and a nice way for everyone to take a breather while still enjoying the park.

Final Thoughts: Making Knott’s Magical with Toddlers

Visiting Knott’s Berry Farm with toddlers doesn’t have to be stressful. With most toddler attractions concentrated in Camp Snoopy, manageable crowd sizes, and plenty of age-appropriate activities, it’s actually one of the more relaxing theme park experiences you can have with little ones.

The key is managing expectations, bringing snacks, and remembering that sometimes the simplest moments – like watching your toddler’s face during their first character meet-and-greet – are the most magical.

Ready to plan your Knott’s adventure? Your toddler is going to love it, and honestly, you probably will too.

Knott’s is fantastic for toddlers, and if you’re hitting 1–2 more attractions, the LA All-Inclusive Pass is a smart move. Adult $99, child $64, kids 2 & under free (a single Knott’s ticket is $62+ online)—the more spots you visit, the more you save.