Phoenix (roller coaster)


Phoenix is a wooden roller coaster located at the Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. Prior to its purchase by Knoebels and its subsequent relocation in the mid-1980s, it was operated under the name "The Rocket" at Playland Park in San Antonio, Texas.

History

Designed and built by Herb Schmeck and the Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, the roller coaster operated as "The Rocket" at the Playland Park in San Antonio from 1947 until the park's closure in 1980. At its opening, the Phoenix was hailed as "the largest roller coaster in the world," with 3200 feet of track and 78 foot first hill. Knoebels purchased the ride in 1984 and dismantled it starting in January 1985. As there were no blueprints to work with, each individual board was numbered and cataloged on site.
The restored roller coaster opened at Knoebels on June 15, 1985. It is named after the mythical phoenix bird which rises, reborn, from its own ashes. This effort, the first large-scale wooden roller coaster relocation in many years, helped spark a movement for the restoration and relocation of other roller coasters standing but not operating.

Ride experience

Phoenix routinely gives a fast ride with many spots where riders experience upwards acceleration, or negative gravity. This floating sensation is known to coaster enthusiasts as airtime.

Awards and rankings

The Phoenix has consistently ranked among the top 10 in various polls including the annual Golden Ticket Awards from Amusement Today, including the Golden Ticket Award itself in the Best Wooden Coaster category in 2018 and 2019 . It was also awarded the Coaster Landmark designation by ACE.

Modern usage

Since 1986, Knoebels has held the "Phoenix Phall Phun Phest," a yearly October event for roller coaster enthusiasts. In 2001 alone, over 1500 roller coaster and amusement park fans converged on Knoebels, many in costume, to participate in a memorabilia swap meet and use the rides after the park closed to the general public. The event was rated the third best Halloween event in 2008 and 2009 by Amusement Today. The Phoenix also has a song about the move from San Antonio to Knoebels. It is called "Fly With The Phoenix" by Dave Parker. The music video is on YouTube.
Phoenix facts
The wooden coaster, Wolverine Wildcat at Michigan's Adventure, is loosely based on the layout of Phoenix.