Kennywood has experienced many changes in the past year that will make the park more fun for guests.

To start, Kennywood has removed the former Thomas Town and replaced it with Kennywood Junction. Thomas Town was themed around the children’s cartoon show, Thomas the Tank Engine. The new area is themed around Pittsburgh’s heavy railway history.

The new Kennywood Junction looks very similar to the old Thomas Town, being in the same location and having many of the same rides. There are five rides with new themes, a gift shop, and a celebration room.

This new historical theme will introduce the youth to Pittsburgh’s industrial past.

Another change to Kennywood this year is the reopening of the Steel Curtain. The Steel Curtain was closed for the 2024 season and is now open with new columns and braces to strengthen the structure of the coaster.

During a weekend trip to Kennywood, I rode the Steel Curtain several times. When I sat in the back, I could feel a lot of vibrations. However, when I rode it in the front, it was smooth.

Another recent change to Kennywood is the reopening of The Kangaroo. The ride had closed for renovations and modernization, but it is now open, featuring new LED light arrangements and a new operating system.

The new LED display at the Kangaroo is easily seen at night as it is very bright and unusual.

Kennywood also introduced Jeeters’ Pub, a 1970s-themed bar. Another recent change is a new restaurant, Carousel Burger Co., which is in the old merry-go-round pavilion. The burger and fries from Carousel Burger are very good.

The park has also seen the addition of new directional signs, a redesigned Beer Garden, and operational upgrades to several food stands.

With its many new modifications, Kennywood should have a very successful year in the 2025 season, and it should be a lot more fun for guests.