The Hershey Park Steel Curtain is a topic that often confuses roller coaster enthusiasts and park-goers alike. Many people mistakenly believe that this impressive thrill ride is located at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania. However, this is not the case. The Steel Curtain is actually situated at Kennywood, a different amusement park in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. This misconception has led to numerous questions and discussions about the ride’s location, features, and experience.
What is the True Location of the Steel Curtain?
The Steel Curtain is not part of Hersheypark’s attractions. It is, in fact, one of the star attractions at Kennywood amusement park in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. Kennywood, located near Pittsburgh, is known for its mix of modern thrill rides and classic attractions. The Steel Curtain stands out as one of the park’s most recent and impressive additions.
Why Do People Confuse Steel Curtain with Hersheypark?
Several factors contribute to the confusion surrounding the Steel Curtain’s location:
- Both Hersheypark and Kennywood are in Pennsylvania
- Both parks are known for their impressive roller coasters
- The names ‘Hersheypark’ and ‘Kennywood’ can be easily mixed up
- Online searches for ‘Pennsylvania roller coasters’ often bring up both parks
This confusion highlights the importance of accurate information when planning amusement park visits.
What Are the Key Features of the Steel Curtain?
Although not at Hersheypark, the Steel Curtain is still a remarkable roller coaster worth discussing. Here are its main features:
- Height: 220 feet
- Speed: 75 mph
- Track Length: 4,000 feet
- Inversions: 9 (most in North America)
- Tallest Inversion: 197 feet (world record)
- Ride Duration: Approximately 2 minutes
How Does the Steel Curtain Compare to Hersheypark’s Coasters?
While the Steel Curtain isn’t at Hersheypark, it’s interesting to compare it to some of Hersheypark’s top coasters:
| Feature | Steel Curtain (Kennywood) | Skyrush (Hersheypark) | Candymonium (Hersheypark) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 220 feet | 200 feet | 210 feet |
| Speed | 75 mph | 75 mph | 76 mph |
| Inversions | 9 | 0 | 0 |
As we can see, while Hersheypark’s coasters are impressive in their own right, the Steel Curtain offers a unique experience with its numerous inversions.
What Makes the Steel Curtain Unique?
The Steel Curtain stands out for several reasons:
- Record-Breaking Inversions: With 9 inversions, it has the most in North America.
- Tallest Inversion: Its 197-foot inversion is the world’s tallest.
- Themed Design: The coaster is themed after the Pittsburgh Steelers NFL team.
- Unique Elements: Features like the zero-g stall and banana roll provide a one-of-a-kind ride experience.
What Are the Ride Requirements for Steel Curtain?
Safety is paramount on any roller coaster. For the Steel Curtain:
- Minimum Height: 52 inches
- Maximum Height: 77 inches
- Restraint System: Lap bars
How Does Steel Curtain Contribute to Kennywood’s Attraction Portfolio?
The Steel Curtain is more than just a roller coaster; it’s a centerpiece attraction for Kennywood:
- It anchors the park’s Steelers Country themed area
- Attracts thrill-seekers and coaster enthusiasts from around the world
- Helps position Kennywood as a destination for cutting-edge rides
What Should Hersheypark Visitors Know About Steel Curtain?
If you’re planning a trip to Hersheypark and were hoping to ride the Steel Curtain, here’s what you need to know:
- The Steel Curtain is not at Hersheypark
- It’s located at Kennywood, about 4 hours west of Hersheypark
- Hersheypark has its own impressive coasters like Skyrush and Candymonium
- If you want to ride Steel Curtain, you’ll need to plan a separate trip to Kennywood
How Can Roller Coaster Fans Experience Both Parks?
For enthusiasts wanting to experience both Hersheypark and the Steel Curtain:
- Plan a Pennsylvania amusement park road trip
- Allow at least one full day for each park
- Consider staying overnight near Pittsburgh when visiting Kennywood
- Check operating schedules, as Kennywood has more limited operating days than Hersheypark
What Other Attractions Complement Steel Curtain at Kennywood?
While Steel Curtain is a major draw, Kennywood offers other notable attractions:
- The Phantom’s Revenge: A hypercoaster with a 232-foot drop
- Thunderbolt: A classic wooden coaster
- The Racer: One of the oldest racing coasters still in operation
- Black Widow: A giant frisbee ride
How Has Steel Curtain Impacted Kennywood’s Popularity?
Since its opening in 2019, Steel Curtain has:
- Increased park attendance
- Attracted more out-of-state visitors
- Garnered attention from roller coaster enthusiasts worldwide
- Helped revitalize Kennywood’s image as a modern thrill park
In conclusion, while the Hershey Park Steel Curtain doesn’t exist, the actual Steel Curtain at Kennywood is a remarkable roller coaster that’s well worth a visit for any thrill-seeker. Its unique features, record-breaking statistics, and themed design make it a standout attraction in the world of amusement parks. Whether you’re planning a trip to Hersheypark or Kennywood, understanding the distinction between these two Pennsylvania parks and their offerings will help ensure you have the experience you’re looking for.
References:
1. Coasterpedia – Steel Curtain
2. Kennywood – The Steel Curtain