Your questions are best answered in some of the trip reports and park reviews here on CB. But from my point of view, I can honestly tell you that you are in for one of the best park experiences in the world. Kennywood is in West Mifflin, just SE of downtown Pittsburgh on the south side of the Monongahela River. I have been there several times in the last 5 years, and have gone away each time more satisfied than the previous visit.
You are dealing with a park that has existed for years and years. And it is a place unlike any other.....it feels like you are in someone's backyard. The landscaping and "back in time" feel combine with some fantastic food and modern thrills to provide a great experience. If you love whirl and hurls, then you'll become addicted to the Kangaroo, Paratrooper, Roll-O-Plane, Bayern Kurve, and Enterprise. The great family rides like the Turtle, Auto Ride and Whip will take away the hectic world of the 21st century. And if you love classic wooden coasters, then the Jack Rabbit (world famous for its double dip) and Racer (known for its continuous track) are a must.
The Thunderbolt, a 1968 re-design of the original Pippin coaster, is my favorite ride there, followed closely by the Log Jammer and Roll-O-Plane. And now, you can delight in the clutches of the Phantom's grip as he hurtles you through a fantastic re-design of the famous Steel Phantom, only this time without the loops!
I also highly recommend the Kennywood video and books sold at the park. It is amazing what they have gone through! I'm about to go for my first 2001 visit, and you can bet I am counting the hours! See you all at KennyKon XII.
Brad Sherman
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Scale model coasters and rides:
www.angelfire.com/oh4/tk173
