Kennywood opens for 118th season with return of Noah's Ark whale

WEST MIFFLIN, Pa. — Kennywood opened Saturday for its 118th operating season, highlighted by the return of the Noah’s Ark whale.

For the past 20 years, the Noah’s Ark attraction had been without the large blue whale, through which guests had traditionally entered until its last overhaul. Its return is part of the latest restoration of the fun house, which is in its 80th season.

Work to bring Noah’s Ark back to its former glory began in November. A grand reopening event will be held May 25, the same day as Kennywood begins its daily operating schedule.

In addition to changes to Noah’s Ark, Kennywood’s gates opened at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with other improvements for the 2016 season. Among them are improvements to the Potato Patch -- though Kennywood assures the famous fresh-cut fries recipe remains the same -- and projects that were able to be completed due to the mild winter.

The 4-D Theater will be in operation for its first full season after being introduced in 2015. And park favorites such as the Jack Rabbit, Racer, Thunderbolt and Aero 360 will continue to provide enjoyment to visitors.

Cox Media Group