Knott's is now an essential part of my DL visits.
It's not perfect, but there's been a huge improvement since my first visit in 2013. I really enjoy the atmosphere and theming, which isn't Disney or Universal level but is definitely better than most regional parks.
Hangtime has dramatically improved the atmosphere of the Boardwalk section IMO. It's also gives Knott's another coaster that I could ride over and over again (Ghostrider and Montezooma are my other two favorites).
I flew out in October just to do Scary Farm and it was totally worth it! So much better than any Halloween event I've done in the past (disclaimer: haven't done Universal or any of the other really well known events).
What used to be where Pony Express is? If I ran Knott's, my first task would be to remove that ride. Totally kills that part of the park and all for a mediocre ride, IMO.
As long as the Mine Ride, Log Ride, Mystery Lodge, and Ghostrider are around and the atmosphere stays intact, I'll always make time for Knott's. Now if only I could get into the park without circling it a couple times trying to figure out where I'm supposed to park each time I go...