A beginner’s bucket list for Kennywood
There’s a little something for everyone
Kennywood Park is located about twenty minutes outside the heart of Pittsburgh. Although it’s technically in West Mifflin, Kennywood’s black and yellow arrow logo screams it’s connection to the ‘burgh. For those living around the city, or hours away, Kennywood is an amusement park worthy of a stop due to it’s appeal to all ages. For Kennywood future fanatics, here are some things to do at Kennywood.
Attend a 4D Show
Although people go to Kennywood primarily to ride rides, the park offers other options besides spinny rides and coasters. One of these options are 4D shows. Free with admission, 4D shows last about 12 minutes and offer visitors an array of films depending on the season. Some current shows include Ice Age and The Polar Express. Anybody trying to escape the summer heat or experience amazing effects should check it out.
Get an Ice Cream at the Golden Nugget
My favorite snack, the Gold Nugget has been a Kennywood classic even before popular Dippin Dots came to be. Although the Golden Nugget offers chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwich, nothing says the Golden Nugget like their ice cream cone. Dipped in chocolate with vanilla ice cream, customers get to choose their topping form chocolate jimmies to peanut pieces.
Watch an Outdoor Show
Kind of like the 4D show, Kennywood also offers outdoor shows at 2:30, 4:30, and 6:30 p.m. Shows vary from kid-friendly to throwback Thursday time with Rock Nation. Although the shows are short, they are free and a great way to relax after riding The Black Widow too many times.
Race your friends on The Racer
Built in 1927, The Racer is one of three moebius loop coasters in the world- therefore, just riding it is something special. A major activity on this bucket list of things to do is ride The Racer with friends, but in opposite coasters. Sending “L” signs and “we’re gonna win” across the platform on The Racer makes quick memorable rivalries.
Eat Potato Patch Fries.
Like The Golden Nugget, The Potato Patch is another Kennywood food classic. There isn’t much to say about the potato-like fries except once you’ve tasted them, they become an instant addiction and favorite Kennywood activity.
Walk through Noah’s Ark
Updated for Summer 2016 with a whale’s mouth entrance, Noah’s Ark is Kennywood’s only walk-through attraction. Shaky floors, lifelike jungle animals, and upside rooms highlight this journey. For those brave enough for the challenge, they’ll remember one of the last funhouse style attractions in the world.
Ride the Phantom’s Revenge
Last but not least for a starter’s bucket list at Kennywood is riding the Phantom’s Revenge. Although it’s a no-brainer, this ride makes the list. Beyond being the landmark of Kennywood for visitors and passersby because of its 232 ft high drop and tealish and black body, the Phantom’s Revenge is an award winner- including making the Golden Ticket Awards for several years. The Phantom’s Revenge is also tied for third as the fastest roller coaster in the world. For Kennywood regulars, the Phantom’s Revenge never gets old and for Kennywood newbies- it’s a fast favorite.
Although Kennywood is a relatively small park it makes up for itself for what it has to offer to those who visit. For those who have been snacking from The Potato Patch for years and remember the original Steel Phantom, Kennywood is always close to our hearts.