Kennywood

Kennywood is one of the oldest and most beloved amusement parks in the United States. Located in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, just a short drive from Pittsburgh, the park has been delighting visitors for over 125 years. Opened in 1898, Kennywood blends a nostalgic charm with modern thrills, offering guests a unique experience that keeps them coming back year after year.

History and Development

Kennywood's roots trace back to the late 19th century when it began as a "trolley park" developed by the Monongahela Street Railway Company. Trolley parks were originally picnic spots at the end of trolley lines, but Kennywood quickly evolved into a full-fledged amusement park. In its early years, it featured simple attractions such as carousels, paddle boats, and picnic areas. The park's charm and success led to rapid expansion, and by the early 20th century, it introduced its first roller coasters.

One of Kennywood's iconic rides, the Jack Rabbit, was built in 1920 and remains one of the oldest roller coasters still operating today. In the following decades, Kennywood continued to add new attractions while preserving its classic appeal. The park was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987, highlighting its significance as a treasured piece of Americana.

Classic and Thrilling Rides

Kennywood is known for its unique mix of historic and modern rides. Some of the park's most iconic attractions include:

• Jack Rabbit: A wooden roller coaster with a signature "double dip" drop that has been thrilling riders since 1920.
• Thunderbolt: Another classic wooden coaster that takes riders on a twisting, turning journey through the park's wooded hillsides. Its unique layout features an immediate drop after the loading platform, adding to the thrill.
• Phantom's Revenge: A steel coaster known for its speed and airtime, Phantom’s Revenge is one of Kennywood's more modern additions. It was initially constructed in 1991 and reimagined in 2001 to become one of the fastest and most exhilarating rides in the park.
• Noah's Ark: A vintage funhouse-style attraction that dates back to 1936, featuring quirky surprises, optical illusions, and a shaking floor that entertains visitors of all ages.

Alongside these classics, the park features modern thrill rides, including the Sky Rocket coaster, spinning attractions like Cosmic Chaos, and family-friendly options such as the Merry-Go-Round.

Seasonal Events and Entertainment

Kennywood's calendar is packed with seasonal events that make each visit special. During the summer months, the park comes alive with entertainment, including live music, performances, and parades. Fall brings Phantom Fright Nights, a popular Halloween event where the park transforms into a spooky wonderland filled with haunted houses, scare zones, and themed attractions. As the holiday season approaches, Kennywood becomes a winter wonderland with its Holiday Lights event, where the park is decked out in festive lights, holiday music fills the air, and guests can enjoy seasonal treats.

Food and Dining

No visit to Kennywood is complete without sampling its diverse array of food options. The park offers a blend of traditional amusement park snacks, such as cotton candy and funnel cakes, along with unique local specialties. One of the must-try items is the Potato Patch Fries, a beloved Kennywood classic. These hand-cut fries are served hot and fresh, with a variety of toppings including cheese, bacon, and gravy. Other dining options range from pizza and hot dogs to international cuisine, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Kennywood has long been known for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering attractions that cater to all ages. The Kiddieland section is specifically designed for younger visitors, featuring pint-sized versions of some of the park's larger rides, as well as gentle attractions like Puddle Jumper and Kiddie Carousel. For families with older children and thrill-seekers, Kennywood’s roller coasters and intense rides offer excitement.

The park is also mindful of accessibility. Guests with disabilities can take advantage of the park's accessibility program, which includes ride accommodations, wheelchair rentals, and special services for guests with sensory sensitivities.

Preservation of Tradition

Kennywood's dedication to preserving its history is evident throughout the park. The vintage rides, art-deco facades, and traditional midway games evoke nostalgia for a bygone era while providing a distinct charm that sets the park apart from more modern counterparts. The park’s staff takes great pride in maintaining Kennywood's historic rides, ensuring that visitors can enjoy these classics for generations to come.

Kennywood remains an iconic destination in Pennsylvania and an essential piece of amusement park history. With its blend of classic rides, modern thrills, and seasonal events, it offers something for every visitor, from families with young children to roller coaster enthusiasts. Its preservation of tradition and commitment to providing a fun and welcoming environment keep Kennywood firmly rooted in the hearts of those who visit. Whether it's a first-time trip or a yearly tradition, a day at Kennywood is a journey through over a century of amusement park magic.