At an April media event the influence of Kennywood’s new owners is already noticeable, even during a relatively modest year for investments.
According to Lynsey Winters, a director of communications at Herschend, “Our focus this year is on enhancing the overall guest experience,” reflecting Herschend’s belief that they are not only in the attractions business, but in the people business.
Kennywood used the anniversaries of two of their most popular rides—the 100-year-old Whip and 25-year-old Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster—to make station upgrades and introduce new commemorative logos.
In addition, two food units have received an upgrade. The Centennial Grill will return cheesesteaks and tater tots to the menu, while the ice cream stand next to the Big Dipper underwent renovations. In a nod to the park's status as a National Historic Landmark, the stand will pay tribute to the Dipper, a wooden roller coaster that was removed in 1984, by adopting the former ride’s color palate and featuring a historic mural.
Many smaller touches are also evident, all with the intent of improving the guest experience, including upgraded fencing and pavement repairs throughout. In addition, the blacktop in front of the famous Potato Patch french fry stand was replaced with concrete to provide an easier to clean surface.
The Potato Patch also serves as the inspiration for the park’s newest festival: Celebrate Kennywood. Taking place during weekends in April and May, the festival will honor all that is great about Kennywood with nostalgic photo opportunities, historic displays and Potato Patch inspired food items, including loaded cheesesteak fries, Irish nachos, maple cinnamon sweet potato waffle fries, and a sweet potato ice cream sundae.
Herschend considers their 22,000+ hosts across the U.S. “the heartbeat” of their company and some of Kennywood’s most transformative investments in 2026, were made in improving the experience for their hosts.
According to General Manager Ricky Spicuzza, Herschend directs each of their attractions to allocate a portion of their annual capital spending to projects that benefit their hosts. In 2026, the break areas in the maintenance shops received upgrades, while the Clubhouse—the longtime employee cafeteria—was extensively renovated.
Located in the 125-year-old Casino building, the Clubhouse had not seen upgrades in decades. Spicuzza said Kennywood sought to create a more inviting and comfortable space for hosts to spend their breaks. Among the improvements were an HVAC system, new lighting, charging stations, a water station, and expanded accessible seating. The plain white walls will be adorned with murals depicting park history and Herschend’s core values.
Additional upgraded food options include the addition of a salad bar and a satellite location of Parker’s Pantry, an initiative launched by Kennywood in 2025 to provide complimentary food items to hosts in need. Spicuzza also noted that Herschend’s nearby water park, Sandcastle (which he also leads) also received its first dedicated training and break room.
With these investments in the people who make Kennywood what it is, the guests and hosts are already feeling a dose of Heartspitality.
