The traditional park is steeped in both nostalgia and coasters. The two converge on Kennywood's classic wooden coasters, including the circa-1921 Jack Rabbit, the circa-1927 The Racer (the only single track, racing coaster in the US) and the circa-1968 The Thunderbolt (which dates back to an earlier incarnation, 1924's The Pippin).
Other early-20th century touches abound, including the circa-1930 Auto Race, the circa-1927 Turtle, and the circa-1918 Whip. Even some of Kennywood's newer rides, such as the Pittsburg (sic) Plunge, recall traditional rides from Kennywood's past.
That doesn't mean Kennywood focuses exclusively on nostalgia. Its Phantom's Revenge holds its own with any modern-day hypercoaster, and the Sky Rocket, introduced in 2010, is a decidedly high-tech launched coaster. The park also offers the usual suspects such as spinning rides, a huge drop tower ride, and kiddie rides.
A day at Kennywood wouldn't be complete without stopping at its famous Potato Patch stand for some scrumptious french fries. And if you want to have a picnic lunch, Kennywood is one of a handful of parks that still allows you to bring your own food.
Phone and Location:
West Mifflin, Pennsylvania (near Pittsburgh)
Admission Policy:
Directions:
From Pittsburgh and from north and west of the area: I-376 E to Exit 5 (Homestead/Squirrel Hill) towards Homestead. Left on Rt. 837 S at end of the Homestead Grays Bridge to Kennywood.
From the south: I-79 N to I-279 (towards Pittsburgh) to I-376 E (towards Monroeville). Follow directions above.
New at Kennywood:
Black Widow
A spinning, swinging ride will bring new thrills to the park.
New for 2010
Sky Rocket
The high-tech Sky Rocket roller coaster will use Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) technology to launch passengers from 0 to 50 mph in 3 seconds.
Kennywood Featured Attractions:
- The highly regarded wooden coasters, Thunderbolt, Racer, and Jack Rabbit
- The steel hypercoaster, Phantom's Revenge
- The classic Noah's Ark dark ride
- Lots of spinning rides
Hotel Info:
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