Kennywood Tightens Summer Chaperone Policy Amid Rising Teen Disruptions

Kennywood, an amusement park with nearly 130 years of history, is located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It has implemented a stricter chaperone policy this summer. This change comes as many parks across the nation are dealing with violent incidents and unruly teen gatherings during the peak season.

The park announced that, starting June 12, guests aged 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult throughout all operating hours. This policy will remain in place until September 7, according to the company’s statement.

Recent events at other amusement parks have prompted this decision. For instance, Six Flags St. Louis experienced brawls involving nearly 100 individuals on opening day, necessitating police intervention and early park closure.

In Pennsylvania, Hersheypark faced an incident involving a fight on April 3. Police charged 55 people, including 52 minors and three adults aged 12 to 19.

A spokesperson for Kennywood emphasized, “This was a proactive measure to maintain the welcoming, family-friendly environment that has been a hallmark of the park for almost 130 years.”

Kennywood, located in West Mifflin, is committed to this policy. A recent post on their Facebook page underscored their zero-tolerance stance on disruptive behavior. The updated policy aims to involve parents and guardians in ensuring a safe guest experience.

Chaperones must be at least 21 years old and present a valid government-issued photo ID. Those aged 15 and under need proof they are eligible to enter without a chaperone; otherwise, they will be denied entry.

The policy allows each chaperone to accompany up to six young guests. Chaperones must be present upon entry and remain in the park, though they do not need to stay with the minors at all times. Communication with the chaperone must be possible throughout the visit.

This change extends previous chaperone rules to all hours, reducing the age requirement from 17 to 15 for unsupervised guests.

Across the country, “teen takeovers” have posed challenges at parks, beaches, malls, and other public spaces, often organized via social media.

Hersheypark introduced photo reentry verification after such disruptions, reinforcing the growing concern over these incidents.

Kennywood will enforce its policy at entry points and throughout the park, with management and security ensuring compliance. Those found without an appropriate chaperone face removal.

School, church, corporate, and other organized group events that already have chaperone structures are exempt.

Online reactions have largely supported the park’s decision. Many praised the proactive stance and suggested improvements such as special entry fees or passes for chaperones not planning to ride.

Kennywood, a staple of West Mifflin, is a National Historic Landmark, known for rides like the Jack Rabbit roller coaster and its well-loved Potato Patch fries.

Guests are required to pass through a weapons detection system at the entrance, and only bags up to 15 inches in all dimensions are allowed, with exceptions for medical and diaper bags.

Located about 10 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, Kennywood continues to be a cherished American amusement destination. Opened in 1898, it shares its historical designation with Rye Playland in Rye, New York.