Kennywood launches Spinvasion, a new 'extra-terrestrial' ride

Kennywood is debuting its newest addition just ahead of the Memorial Day weekend.

Spinvasion, a multi-action spin ride, is the first of its kind in the U.S., according to the amusement park.

The ride, which comes as part of the newly revamped Area 412 section of the park, opens Friday.

Once on Spinvasion, the ride initiates a takeoff sequence then takes riders on a circular path with an additional swing that sways the riders horizontally.

Tasha Pokrzywa, Kennywood’s communications manager, said the team is excited to open the ride to parkgoers and that some guests who have gotten to preview Spinvasion told her that it’s more intense than they expected.

“[Spinvasion] offers a unique single rider experience that reaches speed up to 30 mph. We’ve really amplified the center of the park and we’re all excited for the grand opening,” she said Thursday at a media event.

“This extra-terrestrial thrill ride is the centerpiece of the park’s all-new alien-inspired Area 412. … This is one giant leap for all Kennywood fans,” Rick Spicuzza, Kennywood’s assistant general manager, said in a statement.

Located between the Pirate Ship and and the Grand Prix bumper cars, visitors will find an updated cosmic experience. Area 412 is decorated with alien statues, spaceships and brightly colored rides.

New parts of the revamped section include a redesigned Gift Ship which has merchandise that commemorates the park’s 125th anniversary, as well as space-themed plushies and apparel.

A new galactic mural located just behind Spinvasion, “Battle for the Burg,” can be seen in bright purple and pink. The hand-painted mural depicts green aliens in flying saucers and spacecrafts, complete with crab-like claws descending onto the nighttime cityscape of Pittsburgh.

Additionally Cosmic Chaos, a swinging, spinning, saucer ride was updated with a green, blue and orange color scheme to match the rest of the section.