Nestled within the historic Kennywood amusement park in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, the Black Widow is a towering pendulum thrill ride that has captured the hearts of thrill-seekers since its debut in 2012. Known for its high-speed swings and breathtaking views of the park and surrounding areas, the Black Widow stands as one of Kennywood’s iconic attractions. In this article, we'll dive into the history, specifications, and experience of the Black Widow, offering insights into why it’s a must-ride for adrenaline enthusiasts visiting Kennywood.
History of the Black Widow
The Black Widow replaced a previous Kennywood ride known as The Pitt Fall, a freefall tower ride that was a fan favorite until it closed in 2011. As part of a larger expansion and modernization of Kennywood, Black Widow was introduced to bring a new type of thrill to the park. Manufactured by Zamperla, an Italian amusement ride company, the Black Widow is categorized as a “Giant Discovery” model. This design is known for its giant rotating pendulum and outward-facing seats, providing riders with both height and spin for an exhilarating experience.
The introduction of Black Widow was part of Kennywood's commitment to blending classic amusement experiences with cutting-edge thrill rides, ensuring the park's enduring appeal to a diverse range of visitors.
Ride Specifications and Features
- Height: The Black Widow reaches a height of 146 feet at its peak swing.
- Maximum Speed: Riders experience speeds of up to 68 miles per hour.
- Capacity: The ride can accommodate up to 40 riders at once.
- Swing Angle: The pendulum swings riders to a maximum angle of 120 degrees.
- Duration: Each ride lasts approximately 3 minutes, giving ample time for multiple swings back and forth.
- Seating: Riders are seated in a circular arrangement, facing outward. This setup enhances the feeling of weightlessness and ensures that every rider has an unobstructed view of the park as they soar through the air.
The Ride Experience
From the moment riders board the Black Widow, they know they’re in for an intense experience. Riders are securely strapped into their seats, and the ride begins with a gentle rotation that slowly lifts the pendulum higher. As the pendulum swings back and forth, it quickly gains momentum, rising higher and spinning faster with each swing. Riders feel the force of gravity pushing them into their seats, only to experience moments of near-weightlessness at the ride's apex.
What makes Black Widow unique is its combination of height, speed, and rotation. As the pendulum reaches its peak, riders are tilted forward and backward, giving a sense of flying through the air before plummeting back down in a graceful yet stomach-churning arc. The sensation is a blend of thrill and disorientation, making the Black Widow an intense yet unforgettable experience.
Who Should Ride the Black Widow?
The Black Widow is a ride designed for those who crave thrills and don’t mind a bit of height. Because of its intense nature, the ride has a minimum height requirement of 52 inches and is not recommended for individuals with heart conditions, back issues, or motion sickness. However, for thrill enthusiasts, the Black Widow is an absolute must. The ride provides a perfect blend of speed, height, and thrill without being as intimidating as a roller coaster, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Location and Ride Placement
Located in the Lost Kennywood section of the park, the Black Widow is positioned to offer stunning views of the surrounding Pittsburgh area and Monongahela River valley. This placement also means that during your ride, you can catch glimpses of some of Kennywood’s other famous attractions, like the Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster and the historic Thunderbolt. The proximity to other thrilling rides makes the Black Widow an ideal choice for adrenaline junkies looking to hop from one high-octane experience to the next.
Popularity and Legacy
Since its opening, the Black Widow has become a beloved part of Kennywood’s ride lineup. It regularly ranks as one of the park’s top thrill rides and draws large crowds, particularly on busy summer weekends and during special events like Phantom Fright Nights. For many visitors, it has become a defining part of their Kennywood experience, representing a new era of thrilling yet accessible rides at the park.
The Black Widow is a standout attraction at Kennywood that offers a perfect mix of height, speed, and exhilaration. Whether you’re a local looking to revisit old favorites or a first-time visitor seeking unforgettable thrills, the Black Widow is a ride that should be at the top of your list. With its breathtaking views, intense pendulum swings, and unique rotating seating, it’s a ride that delivers a rush that can’t be matched by anything else in the park. So, next time you visit Kennywood, make sure to brave the Black Widow — if you dare!
The Black Widow is a standout attraction at Kennywood that offers a perfect mix of height, speed, and exhilaration.