Kennywood amusement park opens

WEST MIFFLIN, Pa. (AP) — Kennywood amusement park opened Saturday.

The 115-year-old park, known for its trio of historic wooden roller coasters, opened at 10:30 a.m.

The park will open again the weekend of May 12-13, but won't open for daily operations until May 17.

Final preparations and testing are under way for an anticipated May 17 opening of Kennywood's newest thrill, The Black Widow. The dynamic experience starts with 40 riders seated on a circular platform that rotates counterclockwise. As it spins, a pendulum arm begins to swing back and forth taking riders up to 146 feet in the air, traveling at 68 miles per hour!

"Black Widow is the perfect addition to our collection of rides," explains Kennywood General Manager Jerome Gibas. "When you mix in all our classic rides and new shows, Kennywood is the perfect experience for the entire family."

This season features a return to energetic stage shows.

Kennywood season passes are available for $89.99 until May 31. The regular FunDay price is $37.99, seniors (55 +) $18.49, children 46 inches and under $24.99. After 5 p.m., NightRider tickets are $22.99, Senior NightRider tickets $10.99.

For complete information regarding schedules, events, discounts, rides, etc. visit Kennywood's website.

Kennywood is located a few miles east of the city in West Mifflin, on the bluff overlooking the Monongahela River.

The park's wooden coasters, the Jack Rabbit, the Racer and the Thunderbolt, annually attract ride enthusiasts from around the world.

WPXI