Help planning trip to Kennywood

I was hoping that I could get some help from the Kennywood crowd on these forums. Could you Point me to the best hotel that is close to the park?

I did notice that on the Kennywood website, that to ride The Thunderbolt, you need a partner. Since I will be riding the coasters alone, (wife is to scared to go on them) do they just sit you with somebody, or do you need somebody before you enter the station? Sorry if that is a stupid question.

One more thing. Is it worth the extra few miles to check out Idlewild while we are out there?

Thanks for your help everyone.

There are hotels/motels in monroeville, which is cheaper than staying in downtown pittsburgh/oakland area. Its closer to stay downtown though. If u get a good deal, then go for it. Last time I was there (2001), the ride attendant paired me up with another single rider. As far as crowds, based on experience, the weekends are not that bad. The most I waited on anything was about 45 mins on Exterminator. The rest of the major rides I waited no longer than 30 mins. When you and your wife do go, have fun!

Thank you much coy. I have always wanted to go to Kennywood, and now with the Garfield ride for my 3 year old daughter (who loves Garfield), that just sold my wife to going. We are going in the middle of May, and probably be there on a Monday, which I hope helps with the crowds. How far away is Idlewild from Kennywood?

I live 5 minutes away from KW...there are hotels in West Mifflin about 10-15 minutes from the park that also have KW packages.

The Rider line at T-Bolt varies from time to time. Normally if you are single rider they find someone to pair you up with. There are times I have seen a ride-op take that place. So I wouldn't worry too much.

As for crowds it can be a hit or miss day. Around here we have school picnic days....usually starting the end of May all the way through the end of June....most of them are during the week, so you may not have that problem. Though do stay away from Memorial and Labor days, you won't get anything done. The park is absolutely CROWDED!!

If you check out the KW website it will link you to the hotels in the area...The Comfort Inn and the Extended Stay are great...and cheap deals.

Hope you have a great time, if you have any other questions feel free to ask.

Idlewild's exit is about 45 minutes from Pittsburgh I think.

The Thunderbolt crew will hook you up with a rider, but they are pretty grumpy about it sometimes so be ready for that. Go when the line is a little longer and they will yell for a single rider, you may get to jump the line.

They have a hotel section with a couple packages you can get, but I would just use Travelocity or something similar to find a hotel. If you find something you like someone can probably give you advice about the area or hotel.

Hampton Inn in Monroeville would be my choice on a Kennywood trip. We stayed there before.

Nice hotel. Average price. Not all that far from the park.

And I'll second the comments on single riders on Thunderbolt. IF they don't call for a single rider, they will hold a single riders at the top of the ramp. When the next single rider comes through, they will pair that person up with the person who is waiting.

Thanks a million guys, I really appreciate the help. I am really looking foward to this trip. Kennywood first, and then on the way back, a stop at Cedar Point, and a stay at Hotel Breakers. May can't get here fast enough for me :).

I would definitely make a trip to Idlewild, especially since you have a 3 year old daughter.

I recommend checking out the sites below. They provide great information and pictures about Kennywood & Idlewild.

http://idlewildmoments.com

http://www.kpconnection.com

http://kennywood.coasterbuzz.com *** Edited 3/23/2005 7:36:25 PM UTC by KpExpress***

The T-Bolt crew may get grumpy when you are a single rider getting in to the train, but it's only because it delays operation and because there are many signs that tell you to inform the attendant before boarding.

My suggestion: tell the operator as soon as you get on the platform. You may even get to ride sooner if there's another single ahead of you. Just don't hop in the train magically waiting for someone to appear, and everyone will be ecstatic. :)

About hotels, they're building a Courtyard by Marriott in the Waterfront, about 1½ miles away. That'd be your best bet depending on when you come, and when they open. It's also right next door to Sandcastle, Kennywood's water park. If you're in to that kind of thing, we offer a combo-ticket that's a great deal for the two parks.

Depends on when you come for the Courtyard that kpjb mentioned. I believe the latest on the opening date is simply June. Could be early June, could be late June - I'll have to ask my wife.

When I visited KW as a loner a few years back I just waited right outside the line. I kept my eyes open for other single riders or odd numbered groups and explained that I needed a partner to ride with. Worked great and I didn't need to hassle with the ride ops, grumpy or not.

Go to Idlewild! Your daughter would love Story Book Forest (one of the few remaining and best preserved storyland). The live characters in the forest are awesome and give kids so much attention. Raccoon Lagoon features 9 or so kiddie rides, many of which are classic. Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe is a favorite too. Don't miss it.

I checked Idlewild's website, and they will not be open when I am out at Kennywood in Mid-May :(