Amusement Park News

In 2025, Kennywood Amusement Park officially opened Kennywood Junction, a new themed area that honors the park's long connection to Pittsburgh. Designed to resemble a small steel industry town, the land features five new rides, a themed gift shop, and a Celebration Room.

The new area draws inspiration from both the park's historic setting and Pittsburgh's legacy as the Steel City. Its debut took place on April 12 during the park's opening day, which coincided with the region's annual 412 Day celebration.

412 Day, recognized through a proclamation by former Mayor Bill Peduto in 2017, celebrates Pittsburgh's culture, history, and community pride. The date ties directly to the city's iconic 412 area code and is often marked by collaborations, special events, and product launches across the region. Kennywood chose this meaningful day to introduce Kennywood Junction as a tribute to Pittsburgh itself.

Kennywood general manager Ricky Spicuzza said, “Kennywood and Pittsburgh are synonymous and our new family friendly area, Kennywood Junction, pays tribute to just that, our park, and its historic love for the Steel City.” He added that the area blends “pint sized thrills” with attractions that families can enjoy together, all within a setting modeled after a classic steel town neighborhood.

A focal point of Kennywood Junction is Olde Kennywood Railroad, the park's updated train ride that now takes guests along scenic views of the Monongahela River and Edgar Thomson Works, the region's oldest steel mill. The attraction operates with both the historic Gimbel's Flyer and the newer Kenny Express. The Gimbel's Flyer first appeared at the 1939 World's Fair before joining Kennywood in 1945. Riders can also spot historical pieces from Kennywood's past, including a Turnpike car, a Log Jammer boat, and a Kiddie Cadillac.

Kenny's Cargo Drop has quickly become a standout ride, lifting guests high into the air before sending them through a series of exciting drops and rebounds. Younger riders can enjoy Parker's Cloud Cruisers, where helicopter themed cars allow children to act as pilots while taking in views of Raging Rapids and nearby park landmarks.



Fire Bustin' Brigade has proven popular with aspiring young firefighters. Riders board a fire engine and work together to spray water at animated flames. The Coal Haulin' Convoy carries children through the full Kennywood Junction area on four diesel themed locomotives.



The Junction Gift Shop now offers merchandise tied to the area's steel town theme, and the Celebration Room has begun hosting birthday parties and special events.

Kennywood Junction replaced the park's former Thomas Town children's area. While still offering attractions for younger guests, the new theme broadens the land's appeal with stronger connections to Pittsburgh's history. Marketing director Taylor Bulischeck explained, “There was an opportunity to re theme this area, and we're excited to look at Kennywood's past and use that as inspiration, as well as the surrounding communities and the city of Pittsburgh itself.”

The new land also hosted the park's first Eggcellent Easter Celebration, which began on opening day and ran through April 27. Guests met Tuft, the Kennywood Easter Bunny, enjoyed an Easter egg scavenger hunt, and sampled spring themed foods, including an unlimited buffet brunch.

This season also marked the return of the Steel Curtain hypercoaster, which reopened after significant refurbishment in 2024. Named for the legendary defensive line of the 1970s Pittsburgh Steelers, the coaster once again draws crowds as one of the park's signature rides.



With an extended operating schedule, a successful new Easter event, and the opening of Kennywood Junction, the park had a a lively and eventful season. Spicuzza notes that parkgoers had more reasons than ever to visit or purchase season passes. The top tier platinum pass includes admission to sister parks Sandcastle Water Park, Idlewild and SoakZone, and Dutch Wonderland, along with free VIP parking and discounts on food and retail purchases.