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Hersheypark vs Kennywood: Which Should You Visit in 2026?
Hersheypark is Pennsylvania's modern resort powerhouse; Kennywood is a National Historic Landmark outside Pittsburgh that packs eight coasters — including three wooden classics — into a compact, beloved footprint.
Hersheypark
Kennywood
Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Hersheypark | Kennywood |
|---|---|---|
| Top coaster | Skyrush (B&M wing) | Steel Curtain (9 inversions) |
| Classic woodies | Wildcat (being rebuilt) | Jack Rabbit, Racer, Thunderbolt |
| National Historic Landmark | No | Yes (1987) |
| Shortest wait day | Tue–Wed off-peak | Tue–Wed |
| Least crowded month | September | September |
| Drive from Pittsburgh | 5 hr | 20 min |
| Drive from Philadelphia | 1.5 hr | 5 hr |
| Free parking | No ($25+) | No ($20+) |
Who should choose Hersheypark?
Hersheypark wins on pure modern coaster scale — 14 coasters including the legendary Skyrush, two B&M hypers, and Fahrenheit's beyond-vertical drop give enthusiasts more to work through. The park's chocolate theming, full resort infrastructure, and included waterpark make it a complete family destination. It's one of the best parks east of Ohio, full stop.
If you're visiting Pennsylvania once and want maximum coaster variety plus the resort experience, Hersheypark is the right anchor for your trip.
Who should choose Kennywood?
Kennywood has something irreplaceable: history. Three operating classic woodies — Jack Rabbit (1921, original John Miller design), Racer (1927, classic racing twister), and Thunderbolt (carved into a ravine, one of the most unique coaster settings anywhere) make it a living museum of coaster history. Steel Curtain (2019) with its 9 inversions is the modern counterpoint.
Pittsburgh locals have a fierce loyalty to Kennywood that you'll feel the moment you walk in. The food (Potato Patch fries, local Pittsburgh specialties) is better than average. The ravine setting creates natural shade and terrain the rides exploit brilliantly. For coaster historians and Pittsburgh visitors, Kennywood is essential.
Frequently asked questions
Which Pennsylvania park has better wooden coasters?
Kennywood — Jack Rabbit, Racer, and Thunderbolt are genuine classics that predate most parks' existence. Hersheypark's Lightning Racer is great but newer.
Is Kennywood good for kids?
Yes — Kennywood has a solid kids' section, and the Jack Rabbit's double-dip (one of the oldest operating coasters in the US) is gentle enough for many children.
Which park is easier to drive to from Pittsburgh?
Kennywood is 20 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh. Hersheypark is 5 hours away in central Pennsylvania.
Does Kennywood have a waterpark?
No — Kennywood is a traditional dry park. Hersheypark includes the Boardwalk waterpark with paid admission.