ELYSBURG, Pa. — A lot is going on behind the scenes at Knoebels Amusement Resort. With less than two months until opening day, employees are busy getting things ready at the park near Elysburg. That includes putting together the park's newest ride, The Bayern Kurve.
"There's less than five operating in the entire world. When my family found this and some of our team, it was a no-brainer. 'Let's do this, let's put this together,'" Brian Knoebel said.
Brian Knoebel says Bayern Kurve holds 32 people. It's not for the faint of heart.
"It's a very historical ride. You are going to go really fast. It's going to absolutely be the fastest ride in the park, speeds to be determined. We've had some industry friends tell us it's capable of hitting 72 miles per hour," Knoebel said.
Knoebel says that while Bayern Kurve will not be ready for the park's opening weekend, it will be open sometime this summer. In addition to the newest ride, Knoebels is celebrating an old favorite this season. The Haunted Mansion turns 50 this year.
"Have been adding some special new twists to the ride, new features. We've been updating some of the old scenery that people have come to know, but it will be just as fun, maybe better," Drew Kanaskie said.
The Haunted Mansion is a ride that people seek out when they come to Knoebels Amusement Resort. To celebrate its anniversary, the park is doing special promotions like souvenirs and spooky-themed food. Knoebels is also raffling off chances for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Haunted Mansion. Twelve people will be able to walk through the ride with the lights on, seeing it from a different perspective.
"Many times, people have expressed interest. 'How do I do this? How do I do this?' Well, this is their perfect opportunity. Partake in the raffle, and perhaps, if you're a lucky winner, you will see your dreams come true," Kanaskie said.
For more information on the raffle, click here. Opening weekend at Knoebels Amusement Resort is April 29.
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