Kennywood announces an early opening date and enhancements for the 2022 season

Kennywood in West Mifflin, Penn. has moved its Passholder preview opening date to April 16, swinging its gates wide one week earlier than expected.

The park will open to the public on Easter Sunday, April 17, kicking off the season-opening event, “Swing into Spring,” along with big park enhancements.

“From the moment guests arrive in our parking areas, they will be greeted by a completely refreshed experience,” Kennywood & Sandcastle General Manager Mark Pauls insisted. “Inside the park, guests will find major enhancements, all designed with their enjoyment and improved service top of mind. Just as it will take multiple visits to enjoy all the new events we have planned, guests will need several visits this year to take note of all the upgrades made since the end of last season.”

Kennywood enhancements greet guests as soon as they enter the park

When guests arrive at the entrance plaza, they’ll be greeted by a massive carousel horse. The ticketing and security screening process will also be quicker, allowing visitors to spend more time enjoying the rides and attractions.

Kandy Kaleidoscope is undergoing a complete make-over, adding floor-to-ceiling windows for a brighter interior, and reconfiguring the shop for easier check-out.

The Old Mill boat ride will have a new façade that is more in line with its overall theme.

The Kangaroo fairground-style flying ride makes its grand come-back, re-opening on May 28. “The Kangaroo really is the centerpiece of this refurbishment,” said Rob Henninger, assistant general manager. “With its spectacular new backdrop, the Kangaroo looks better than ever, and will soon be ready to bring its family-friendly thrills and excitement back to Kennywood!”

Kangaroo’s gift shop has also been rebuilt, and will offer new merchandise such as Kangaroo and 125th Celebration items, in honor of the park’s big anniversary.

The public participated in a vote for the winning themes – Classic Coasters, Legendary Thrills, and Dark Rides through the Ages – that will become a queue mural at the Jack Rabbit attraction.

Food and beverage outlets have been redesigned for increased service speed, and the Beer Garden has had a full refresh.

In addition, both the Thunderbolt and Phantom’s Revenge roller coasters have been re-painted.

Kennywood celebrates a full year of festivals

The 2022 season marks the first time the park will open on Easter weekend, launching the first festival of the season, “Swing into Spring” (April 16-May 22).

Additional festivals are:

Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival – Thurs-Sun, May 26-June 26

Celebrate America – July 1-July 4

Summer’s On! – July 5-July 31

Fall Fantasy – August 6-August 21

Phantom Fall Fest – select dates from September 23-October 30

Holiday Lights – select dates from November 18-January 1